Edd:  It’s been years since we visited New York City during the Christmas season. So while we were in New Jersey with our daughter’s family for the holidays, we decided to spend a few days taking in the sights there.

Cynthia:  Staying in Manhattan is too pricey for our retirement budget, so we rented a nice, spacious Airbnb across the Hudson River in Hoboken, New Jersey. Our daughter and son-in-law lived there in the early years of their marriage, so being back was a trip down memory lane.

E:  Most people aren’t aware that the views of the Manhattan skyline from Hoboken are spectacular. And an easy train ride for only $2.75 takes you right into the center of the city.

C:  We saw the movie Wicked for our granddaughter’s 10th birthday in November, so we were especially interested in going to Bloomingdale’s to see its Wicked-themed window displays.

E:  The idea was everywhere inside the huge store as well. Leaning into the color palette of the movie, even Santa wa...