New York City invites visitors to celebrate its Hispanic heritage

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New York City
Manhattan skyline from DUMBO in New York City, which is short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Picture by Arnab Nandy.

(TAN): NYC & Company, the official destination marketing organization and convention and visitors bureau for the five boroughs of New York City, is inviting New Yorkers and regional visitors to explore Hispanic and Latino neighborhoods in the five boroughs, in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month.

During this annual celebration, the United States recognizes the contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community to the development of North American culture. Each year the celebration begins on September 15 and concludes on October 15, coinciding with the anniversary of the discovery of America, and with the celebration of the declaration of independence in countries like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Chile and Mexico.

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Among the featured neighbourhoods is East Harlem, or “El Barrio” located in the northeastern shoulder of Manhattan. After the First World War, a new wave of immigrants from Puerto Rico settled in the neighbourhood and during the century that followed, the area came to be known as East Harlem — also known as “El Barrio”. Visitors can have a taste of the Puerto Rican, Caribbean and Latin American art at the El Museo del Barrio museum located in the neighbourhood.

Located in northern Manhattan between Inwood and Harlem is Washington Heights, which is known as “Little Dominican Republic.” The Hispanic Society Museum & Library is one of the popular attractions of this area. Visitors can taste authentic Latin cuisine at El Floridita eatery that has been serving Latin flavor since 1995.

Spare a thought for the Jackson Heights neighbourhood, around 60% residents of which were born outside the US, bringing cuisine and culture from Latin America and beyond. The neighbourhood is also home to one of New York City’s largest LGBTQ+ communities. 

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Colombians are among the most prominent South American communities living in Jackson Heights. So a befitting lunch would be Sancocho (deep beefy flavors with a rich broth made with potatoes, green plantains, yuca, beef, chicken or pork) at Los Arrieros Restaurant located in the area.

“With vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class museums, authentic dining offerings, exciting hotel options and more to safely explore across the five boroughs, in addition to special celebrations taking place virtually this year, we encourage New Yorkers to mask up, support local businesses and consider a staycation in their own back yard,” said Fred Dixon, NYC & Company president and CEO.

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