Visiting The United Nations (for sale, living, price)

[SHEPNYC]

Living for more than a decade within walking distance of the U.N., we never thought to visit. Yesterday we decided to check it out, and were pleasantly suprised. We got through security (in a large air conditioned tent) in 5 minutes, no big lines, which was surprising considering it's the height of the tourist season.

The place is nicely air conditioned, with a small cafe and restrooms, there's also a post office that sells stamps from around the world, a UNICEF counter with gifts and merchandise for sale, a large book store and best of all a large gift shop with crafts, jewelry, pottery, etc from at least 50 different countries. All this is available without cost if you decide against a purchase. It's a good place to hang out on hot and cold days if you find yourself in the vicinity and have time to kill.

Of course tours are also offered, which we took, for a regular price of $16 with discounts available for children, students and seniors. The tours are scheduled in different languages and no reservations are needed. The tours last for about an hour and go in groups of 15 - 20 people. It was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon and we learned a few things to boot.

There is also the Delegates dining room where you can have lunch if you wish but it requires jackets for men and runs about $27 for an international buffet with great views of the East River. We'll go back for lunch on another visit.

Amazing what's out your front door when you live in this great city.