I suggest north of 120th street in New York City.
Very diverse.
Just kidding.
As for NYC I will suggest dining at one of the many authentic Italian restaurants on Mulberry Street in little Italy. A few blocks away (literally) is China town for good culture, and food (no dogmeat).
(it is funny watching the faces change from whites to chinese in a space of 100 steps)
Try to get as far away from midtown as you can for lodging (expensive in midtown, tourist area), find a place in one of the outer boroughs and take a train to Manhattan, the MTA is one of the best in the world.
NYC is about food. You can go look at the WTC site I am sure, but i am a local and am beyond that.
Even better, hit NYC on Sept 19 and experience the San Gennaro feast.
11 days of food and culture. (and wannabe guidos)
