The Julliard School and the Lincoln Center – New York, NY
Here’s the second thing that was on my list of places to see in New York city. I really wanted to see Julliard. The building is quite unique in architecture. It is situated right next to the Lincoln Center.
I WISH I was good enough to go to Julliard. Maybe in another life time.
Carnegie Hall – New York, NY
Not too far from Central Park is the famous Carnegie Hall. This is one of the the two places that I felt that I absolutely had to visit on my trip to New York. Unfortunately (as I did not have the time to spare), I was unable to take part in a tour of the inside. The tour isn’t expensive, around $10 per person. Next time I’ll make it a priority on my list.
Central Park – New York, NY
Unfortunately I did not venture far into Central Park, the nice cool shade was very very inviting. I took several photos of the surrounding area and also of the park itself.
The most memorable thing about going to Central Park was the woman that we met right outside it. This woman, who may have been mentally unstable, appeared to be a transient. As I was readying my party for a photo, she went and stood a few feet from my uncle and proceeded to stare at him. I, noticing her, stared at her and motioned for everyone to move a little farther so that I didn’t have to take a picture with her in it. As they scooted away, she proceeded to follow my uncle and stare at him some more. It was quite bizarre. I, feeling a little irritated, was about to ask her to “please move so I could take a picture” when she suddenly walked away. Bizarre. Oh well. Life goes on. On a brighter note, the clouds were especially beautiful that day. :D
While walking around the outside of Central Park, I did see a line of horse drawn carriages awaiting employment. I could not help but feel sorry for the horses standing there looking so forlorn. I was able to get a photo of one of them. If you want a nice ride around the park, try getting one that doesn’t require the use of these poor horses that are hitched up day after day for the amusement of tourists. There are plenty of little bicycle pulled carriages to transport you around the park. You won’t find a shortage of them as the riders often come to the edge of the park and solicit their services to anyone who looks like a tourist. Their ability to detect tourists is uncanny… its almost as if they can smell us! :O
Times Square – New York, NY
You have to see it to believe it. The flashing bright lights, the hoards of people, and the rumbling buses driving by, all contribute to the feel of Times Square at night. Even though Times Square had recently been threatened by a bomb filled vehicle, it still bustled with life. It was obvious that the New York Police Department were taking extra precautions, there were numerous officers moving through the area.
Even though I was able to take photos, I feel as if the photos are inadequate, I wasn’t able to fully capture how bright this part of the city is at night. Someday I’ll go back again.
3-hour Circle Line Cruise around Manhattan, NY
The 3-hour cruise around Manhattan is a must for travelers, but I would recommend picking a day that is sunny and HOT. The boat is enclosed and is nicely air conditioned. Those who wish to stand or walk around the boat should stay on the lower level as standing is not allowed on the upper level. The guide constantly asks everyone to sit down (should they be found standing on the upper level). The ride is smooth and comfortable. I snapped a few photos while on board, and I am posting the ones that I thought were worth putting up.
If you want a good view of the Statue of Liberty, I definitely recommend the Circle Line Cruise as they take you directly in front of the statue for a nice view.
New York City, NY
Finally, at the end of the trip we arrived in New York city. Coincidentally, we arrived on the very day that they discovered the car bomb in Times Square. I took photos of various places around the city, which I will post here, but for some of the more specific points, I will create separate postings.
The city itself is beautiful and familiar, familiar even though I have no recollection of my first visit to the city when I was 3 years old. Many of our movies were filmed in this landmark city, and I recognize the tall skyscraper buildings. New Yorkers are friendly, more than once I received directions from a helpful Subway rider without actually asking for directions. They seem to know when tourists need a hand and gladly point out which way we should be going.
The following pictures are taken from Herald Square, China Town, and various places throughout the city. You’ll be able to see the famous Empire State Building, Policemen on horseback, the Confucius building, Staten Island ferry, Battery Park, a hot dog cart, and a very ragged looking pigeon.
