Both Chinatown and Little Italy, being the ethnic enclaves, are ranked among New York's liveliest parts. Hence, visiting them is a must to tourists. Chinatown is inhabited by over 200,000 Chinese-speaking residents, which makes it the largest Chinese community outside of Asia.

In contrast to Little Italy, Chinatown is constantly expanding. Since the 1990s more and more Vietnamese immigrants have settled here and opened their stores and restaurants. The streets of Chinatown are always crowded not only by the locals but by New York visitors who come here lured by authentically Asian cuisine bargain meals.

There is a wide selection of Chinese spots, especially south of Canal Street. It is here that in the winding and crammed streets one can find eateries offering cheap and delicious truly Chinese, Asian and Malaysian dishes. If longing for a good coffee, icecream, tea or buns, visit the Mei Lai Wah Coffee House or Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory at 64-65 Bayard Street.

A real Chinese culinary feast is not the only adventure in Chinatown. It is such a many-layered neighborhood that strolling along its main artery, Canal Street, and its tiny side streets is a fascinating experience for all the senses. Hence, don't miss this piece of China while in New York as it is here that you can find stinky seafood markets, mysterious Chinese herb shops, storefront bakeries with tasty pork buns, all-in-one street vendors, fresh fruit and vegetable markets, authentic Chinese eateries, etc.

If looking for luxurious Chinese goods, walk along Mott Street with upscale shops like China Silk and Handicrafts, Pearl of the Orient Gallery, New Age Designer and many others. There are also two locations of department stores in Chinatown: Pearl River Chinese Products Emporium which sell anything from Chinese musical instruments, herbs, kites to soaps.

The area abounds in architectural landmarks, including the Eastern States Buddhist Temple and the Mahayana Buddhist Temple, the largest one in Chinatown. If interested in seeing tai chi practitioners, mah-jongg and domino players, see Columbus Park. Not far from here is the Museum of Chinese in the Americas presenting history of Chinatown and its residents.

Little Italy, once a truly authentic pocket of Italian people, has been constantly shrinking. Hence, only few traditions and cultural sites have been preserved. Nevertheless, it is still worthwile to visit the area, especially in the second week of September during the 10-day-long San Gennaro Festival.

To get the Italian feel walk along the stretch of Mulberry Street between Houston and Canal Streets and do not miss the neighborhood top attractions, including the Umberto's Clam House, famous for its delicious Italian seafood meals and the Mare Chiaro, the old-time bar. Tasting a delightful fresh-baked pastry or pizza in one of the wide selection of reliable restaurants like Casa Bella, Da Nico, Lombardi's and Il Palazzo is a must to Italian-cuisine gourmets.