Re: New Jersey-Paterson
GTG - Paterson is primary the arab area of NJ. Go down to main street for great Arabic food and sweets from either Al-Basha or Al-Kumba.
Getting to NYC:
You are about a 40 minutes train ride OR 30 minute car ride from NYC (manhatan). The traffic on the weekends is fine. Aovid rush hours on the weekdays. If you are driving follow signs for Route 3 / Lincoln Tunnel. Trains run to Newark Penn Station and straight
to Manhattan
Getting to the closest Desi Area:
From Paterson the closest desi area is Jersey City. (Newark Ave) - It's on you way to NYC if you drive. Take Route 3 straight exit for Tonnelle Ave
Indoor Activities:
Lots of Indoor exbihits in East Rutherford area for the Christmas season (10 min from paterson). They have a huge indoor sporting facility (near Giants stadium).
There are tons of nice mueseums (I suggest the MET) in NYC. I would suggest to bundle up and enjoy the christmas decor of the city.
Enjoy your time in NJ