The New York Times has produced a list of around 40 places in the world they think you should visit in the world, and our very own Manchester has come in at number 20.
Only London (number 7) and Manchester were featured from the UK, although London is fairly predictable especially with the Royal wedding on the 29th April this year. Manchester however is rather a surprise inclusion in a list which also includes Singapore, Whistler in British Columbia, The Danube and Milan.
Manchester seems to have made an impression with its links to the music industry, or as the New York Times puts it:
“The cold and gritty factory city that famously inspired the post-industrial anguish of bands like Joy Division and the Smiths has transformed into a thriving cultural hub…”
The city which often attracts the nickname “Madchester”, was the home of one of the most famous music venues in the country – The Hacienda – which wasn’t exactly a financial success but introduced the world to many bands including the aforementioned Joy Division, Smiths and Happy Mondays.
Today a number of clubs and bars are cashing in on the 80s nostalgia which really can’t be harmed by Happy Mondays’ singer, Sean Ryder’s, appearance on the ITV “I’m a celebrity, get me out of here” TV show. FAC251 is an indie-music venue based in the old Factory Records building.
The full list can be found on the New York Times – Top 41 places to visit page.
More Manchester Links:
Hotels in Manchester
Tourist attractions in Manchester
Manchester self-catering accommodation
Manchester car hire
