First and foremost, many thanks to MasterCard Singapore, without whom, I'd never dream of coming America again after a 16 years break, where New York had apparently seen drastic changes. Next, to Sinead, whose unflagging coordination managed to extend us another two days to explore New York more thoroughly, not forgetting Anna, whose utmost attention made our NY stay seamlessly enjoyable.
Well, I've won the opportunity to watch Beyoncé concert in Barclay Center, Brooklyn, NY, as well as return air tickets plus airport transfer, 3 nights accommodation, some meals, guided tour etc. In view of my extension stay, we will have to make our own way to the airport, so I'll have a little research on this aspect as well. I was grateful to Sinead for arranging us on an SQ flight instead of Air China, our initial option. Not only an SQ flight will be more comfortable, the food probably safer, and personal entertainment system on-board will also minimise boredom. Well, I have never travel Air China before, but China Eastern Airlines was crap, I remember my boring trip to Shanghai without any personal entertainment, and I suppose all China airlines are alike. Not to mention Air China will need a stopover of 6 hours in Beijing, while SQ only keeps me at Frankfurt for 2 hours. So, I can have extra 8 hours to spend in NY!
Airport Transfer (JFK)
New York City is basically served by 3 major airports, notably John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia, and Newark (New Jersey). I used to detest JFK, I found it one of the most remote airport in a cosmopolitan city and tried to bypass it during my visit in 1997 without success. But since end 2003, AirTrain started its service with connection to metro lines at Jamaica and Howard Beach Stations, making the connection downtown less painful for budget travelers, and hence escalating JFK to be the most convenient airport from Manhattan. Of course, visitors can still rely on the express bus connecting JFK with Grand Central Terminal and Port Authority Bus Terminal, or the famous Yellow Top (cab). Let me provide a quick run down on some popular means with reference from several web sources:
AirTrain + Metro
This is about the most economical mean of connection, with a transfer at Jamaica Station or Howard Beach Station. Both AirTrain and Metro runs 24 hours, frequency of AirTrain is around 10 minutes, the cost for AirTrain is US$5, and charges for AirTrain are only collected at Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station by means of metro card, which means traveling between the JFK terminals are free of charge. Metro to downtown cost US$2.50. The E train from 'Sutphin Blvd - Archer Av - JFK Airport' is a faster express train getting downtown upon alighting at AirTrain's 'Jamaica Station - Sutphin Boulevard' (AirTrain), and my understanding is that there will be no extra charge. E train takes about 45 minutes to reach downtown, while a normal metro (J, Z) takes about 60 minutes.
AirTrain + Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)
This is by far the most efficient means to go downtown, in just 15 (AirTrain) + 20 (LIRR) mins. LIRR doesn't stop only at Long Island, it goes all the way to Midtown Penn Station, Manhattan. LIRR cost between US$4 - US$9.50 (excluding AirTrain fare US$5) depending on your time and day of travel, cheaper over the weekends, and costlier over rush hour. Both AirTrain & LIRR runs 24 hours, but not all LIRR stopover at Jamaica Station.During the day, LIRR runs every quarter of an hour, this reduced to half hourly in the evening, and hourly between 2am-5am. (Peak hour: on any weekday train scheduled to arrive in NYC terminals between 6 and 10 AM or depart NYC terminals between 4 and 8 PM)
'Express' Bus
NY Airport Service operates express buses from both the Port Authority Bus Terminal and Grand Central Terminal to JFK Airport. These buses offer comfortable seats, and the fare is US$16. The buses to JFK Airport run every 15-30 minutes, beginning at 6:15 AM and ending at 10:10 PM. Travel time is subject to virtually the same bottleneck delays you would experience in your own car. On a good day, you can be at JFK Airport in about 1 hour 10 minutes. Rush hours and weather, of course, will add time to this trip. Not to mention the occasional pick up from some midtown hotels. http://www.nycairporter.com/
'Free' Transport (for Unlimited Metro Card holder)
I stated that the AirTrain + Metro as about the most economical mean of connection, but here is the cheapest mode of travel, naturally, it's a little complicated and probably time consuming. Bus Q3, Q10, and B15 leaves JFK Terminal 5 for Queens and Brooklyn.
B15 stops over at New Lots Av / Ashford St, walk along the road and take a right turn to Warwick St, Metro 3 stops at New Lots Av station some 40m away, and will connect you to town (via Atlantiv Av, Times Sq).
Q10 goes to Queens, alight at Lefferts Bl / Liberty Av, turn left at Lefferts Bl, walk 150m towards Ozone Park / Lefferts Blvd subway station for Metro A, which goes to Port Authority Bus Terminal and beyond.
Transport is FREE for Unlimited Travel Metro Card holder.
A gentle reminder that B15 & Q10 departs from different bus stop.
Forget Q3, it doesn't go near town.
Taxi
Taxi will bring you to anywhere in downtown Manhattan for US$52 plus US$4.50 Midtown Tunner Toll and gratuity, but NOT the other way round.Going to JFK will be based on meter plus toll and gratuity. On a good traffic, the duration is usually slightly more than an hour, about the same as express bus.
There are, of course, some exotic means of transfer such as helicopter, which cost about US$159 & up, traveling time around 12 minutes, excluding the security clearance time, and comes with luggage limitation.
Before I get on my blog proper shortly, one important advice: Get hold of Metro Map and possibly, Manhattan Bus Map. These maps should be available, free of charge, from the airport, metro stations, or tourist information kiosk. Even if you know the direction well, a map helps to define route for transfer, and the bus map is particularly useful crossing towns and where metro doesn't transit.
For online information and apps, check out MTA's web portal: http://www.mta.info/maps/
Basically, I found the maps on the right quite handy and useful to glide through the otherwise messy New York transport for a newbie.
Day 0: 02 Aug 2013, Fri (GMT +8) Singapore
No thanks to some stupid system glitch, I was not allowed to check-in online 2 days before my flight and had to leave home early at 8.15pm for my 11.55pm flight. I had my ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approved, but somehow the airline didn't allow me to update the status online. So, I boarded bus 985 at 8.25pm, and made a train connection via Jurong East, reaching Changi Airport T3 at 9.45pm.
The queue at Row 7 was terribly long, but as I approached, I was led by some kind staff to Row 3 (where business and first class passengers are generally queue), and got my luggage checked in within minutes. However, I wasn't able to be seated next to my traveling partner, as the flight was fully booked.
I didn't have much time to shop nor massage this time, as my partner kept us busy by sourcing for a travel pillow, and we had to reach boarding gate B4 early for security clearance, particularly this being a large plane with full capacity, and heading for US.
By 11.30pm, I was already seated on seat 57C, the plane departed punctually at 11.55pm.
Appetiser: Penne pasta with chicken. Supper: Panfried fillet of fish in chunky tomato-herb sauce, red capsicum, carrots, kenya beans and steamed potatoes. Dessert: Chocolate fudge cake
Breakfast: Braised egg noodles with chicken, black mushrooms and leafy greens.
Singapore Airlines is great, they always offer options for meals, and consistently serves drinks onboard, with quality better than general street food in the country. In addition, their remote control provides a range of languages to cater for travelers from various region. Many other airlines tend to be more passive. And I absolutely love this egg noodle, with ingredients so generous and quality better than some of the restaurants downtown!
During the 12 hour flight, I managed to finished two movies on Yip Man, starring Anthony Wong and Tony Leong respectively, and I think, Zero Dark Thirty, and have intermittent sleep along the way.
Day 1: 03 Aug 2013, Sat (GMT +2) Frankfurt
Flight SQ26 landed in Frankfurt at 6.13am local time.
I must confess Frankfurt Airport looks very different from my previous visit in Dec 1997, on a similar trip to Atlanta, via New York. I don't remember that much shops in the transit area, and security is definitely tighter now, after the 911 incident. 2 hours might seem long, but I needed to go to toilet, and after a short window shopping, I re-boarded flight SQ26 by 8am, the flight was taking off 25 minutes later. The two hour passes fast, and almost not noticeable, it was a good break to stretch my limbs, I really appreciated that.
Brunch: Braised pork with hoisin sauce, seasonal vegetables and steamed rice. Dessert: Griotte cherry cheesecake
Wow! Cheesecake! Gonna try it in New York, but I suppose this is a warm up. I love cheesecake!
Appetiser: Yum woon sen kup kung (Thai style shrimpwith glass noodle salad). Light meal: Chicken cacciatora with seasonal vegetables and gnocchi. Dessert: Cherry crumble flan
I love this appetitiser, slightly sour, very appetising indeed, and won't have minded having a bigger portion of this as the main course!
On our way above the Atlantic, I finished Welcome to the Punch, a movie starring James McAvoy. It's a complete waste of time, lousy show. Then I had some laugh with a Hong Kong comedy, Princess and the Seven Kung Fu Masters (笑功震武林), which was slightly more interesting.
Day 1: 03 Aug 2013, Sat (EST/GMT -4) New York
SQ26 touched down JFK at 10.18am local time, and I alighted from the plane some 30 minutes later. The queue for immigration clearance was long, and an officer led us to a shorter queue meant for US citizen. I managed to clear immigration within 10 minutes, surprisingly quick. The Chinese immigration officer asked me my purpose of visit, duration of stay, location of stay et cetera. I answered with honesty, and promptly cleared immigration, and then I had to search for toilet urgently. I was surprise my traveling mate was nowhere to be seen after I done my business, I later learned she was detained for further questioning but didn't want to elaborate much.
After some time, we collected our luggages from the belt. I was very careful with the items I brought, including some gifts for my New York friend, I deliberately made it just below the US$100 limit, so that I don't have to pay unnecessary taxes, and I declared bringing in some cookies and supplement tablets, the lady custom officer asked, "Are the cookies nice?" I scare she may want to try if I said yes, so I told her I really don't know, never tried before. She let me through without further probing.
Once out of the restricted zone, I made an effort to look for maps and discount coupons before looking up for Anna, the lady who's gonna pick us up, but she was nowhere to be found. After a while, I notice a gentleman speaking on a phone, he had already picked up a couple, but seemed like waiting for further clients. I was about to approach him once he's done with his call, but the a Chinese lady came over and asked if we were also going for Beyoncé concert from MasterCard. Great! We found the chauffeur, but I wondered why he wasn't holding a placard with my name, hence the confusion.
I was seated beside the driver, and chatted with him enroute to W Hotel Downtown, our designated accommodation for the next 3 nights. He came from Columbia, spoke basic English, and was helpful to show us some New York landmarks along the way.
The first picture I took in NY, outside W Hotel
We reached W Hotel Downtown at 12.30pm, the hotel lobby is at level 5. I found that a little inconvenience, but at least it could be made to be more comfortable and less chaotic than at ground floor. Just that everytime we get to our room from an outing or vice versa, we needed to make a transfer of lifts at level 5, the ground floor lifts doesn't go straight to the rooms.
However, the concierge explained that our room was not available yet as it was still early for check-in, but the other couple traveling with us got their room because they did not specifically asked for a twin room. We would have to leave our luggage at the ground floor, and come back later. Just then, a lady came from the waiting area and identified herself as Anna, our host throughout the stay. She handed us a folder each, inside was a detailed agenda of our trip. She told us she came from Connecticut, and she would also be staying in the hotel during our stay, and gave us her contact number. But without a US SIM card, I would not want to call anyone unless totally necessary. In fact, I ordered a Ready SIM online via Amazon, but it never came after two weeks since my order. As my traveling mate and I were still far from hungry, we first went to a Starbuck in the next building to get some small change, and trying to access internet. The waitress showed us a disgruntled face when we each presented a US$100 note! LOL! But we couldn't find any free wifi anyway. Then, we left for Century 21, trying to benchmark some bargains prior to our visit to Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets. Truly, as my New York friend revealed, the prices are indeed excellent, and what's more, there would be no taxes (8.5% otherwise) for clothing below US$110 (per item).
My friend was desperate for a shower after a tiring 22 hr flight, so we came back to the hotel at 2.30pm, and finally managed to get a room, Room 802 to be exact, which provided us with an excellent view of the 911 memorial.
I was wary of the many reviews on W Hotel Downtown's website, many patrons complained about they were made to pay for snacks from the Munchie Box, which they never consumed. So I reminded my friend, avoid the munchie box if possible.
Otherwise, I have to say, the room was tastefully decorated, obviously gone through good design analysis, probably the nicest room I ever got.
Room 802
It seemed like a room for 4 honestly, with 2 x what seemed like double bed. The long couch by the window was lovely, with a splendid view of the 911 Memorial and beyond.
WTC 911 Memorial, always long queue
Bathroom is quite roomy too!
Some desk accessories
There was a rubber car, not sure the purpose why it was there, kinda cute! And then, there was this glass paper weight. There were too much accessories in the room, and without an inventory list, it was really hard to tell whether anything was 'already lost' before we checked into the room, besides, it would be a pain in the ass to go through all these. Bottom line, be nice to the housekeeper, you would be at their mercy, LOL!
The 'notorious' Munchie Box
Digital alarm clock with iPod dock. But seriously, who needs an iPod these days when there's iPad?
Alright, so much for the room. We were eager to get in touch with New York, and soon as my friend dried her hair, we left the hotel.
Brooklyn Battery Tunnel
National Museum of American Indian, formerly US Custom House
I mistaken Albany Street as Washington Street, lost my direction searching for Wall Street Station, and went south all the way to Bowling Green Station instead. But at Reactor Station, I discovered a horror, R line, which we would be relying heavily once we shift hotel to Brooklyn after our 3 nights in Manhattan, would start its 6 months maintenance beginning 02 Aug for more than a year due to the damage by Hurricane Sandy! That meant the tunnel stretch linking Manhattan and Brooklyn will not be in service. (@_@)"
We boarded Line 4 at Bowling Green for Grand Central Station. Along the way, my mind was kept occupied coming out contingency. We still could get to Brooklyn by other subway lines, but that would require more transfer, and my friend carries a large luggage! Agh... why couldn't they start a week later? :(
Grand Central Subway Station
We each bought a 7-Day Unlimited Metro Card for $31 from Bowling Green station, and made our first metro trip to Grand Central station on line 4 (It was my first time taking New York metro too!). Getting the 7-Day pass was a good bargain, we definitely would have spent more if we got the stored value card instead. It was close to 4pm when we reached Grand Central Station, we didn't intend to explore the station then, it was merely meant for Junior's cheesecake. It was about time we got hungry since our last meal was almost 9 hours ago on the flight.
Junior's, famous for their cheesecakes!
Plain Cheesecake, $6.50
We decided to share a plain cheesecake. Firstly, to have a feel how their cake foundation tasted before we tried something else. Secondly, we both wanted to reserve capacity for other food later on. Junior's plain cheesecake was rich, somewhat creamy with a tint of lemon zest. The cake was a relatively big piece and rather filling, I truly enjoyed it!
On our way back to the subway station, I had a little time to amuse myself with the glamorous decor of Grand Central Station. I was amazed by the delicate carving on top of the platform entrance, it struck me as so Harry Potter-liked, that one could have easily mistaken he's in London! Grand Central Station is the largest train station in the world by number of platforms: 44, with 67 tracks along them, all underground over two levels. I will touch on a little trivia about it on a return visit, for the moment, let's get on with our next agenda for now... more food! :D
We re-boarded the subway and headed for 86 St, getting to The Great Lawn in Central Park. I had initially wanted to visit Solomon R. Guggenheim museum, as they were offering voluntary fee on Saturday between 5.45pm to 7.45pm, but I hopelessly lost my way again and made a wrong turn towards Metropolitan Museum instead (=.=)"
New York Metropolitan Museum of Art
The major disappointment I had during my previous visit in 1997, was somehow I missed the opportunity to visit this museum. I initially catered half a day for Met this time round, but the organiser revamped our itinerary rather last minute, which I suspect was due to another concert winner who couldn't travel on the same day with us. Ended up, I could not free up half a day for Met, and merely hours would not do justice to this museum with such gigantic collections, arguably one of the top three museums in the world along with the British Museum in London, and obviously, Musée du Louvre of Paris. Afterall, it does not come cheap, strictly speaking, you can still pay what you wish for, but the RECOMMENDED fee is US$25. Other museums in New York which offers voluntary contribution are using the term 'Suggested Fee', but Met uses the term 'Recommended Fee'. I don't know how many visitors are willing to pay the full recommended rate, but I plan to pay $5 if I could squeeze time to visit two or three of its 17 curatorial departments over an area of 190,000 square meters. But if for merely 2 hours, forget it. I don't even know whether I could have finished one sector. In the end, that 3rd winner could not even come to US anyway, as he was denied entry upon arrival for some passport issue.
Newer Yellow Top along Museum Miles
Well, since I don't have time for visiting Met during this trip, I just snapped a few pictures of its exterior and move on, at least I have seen its building (^.^)!
Central Park
Finally reaching Central Park (erm.. it's actually just behind Met :P)! Yet another itinerary I was surprise I didn't visit during my previous stint, then again, it was merely two days stay, too short for everything.
The Great Lawn
We didn't come to The Great Lawn to have game or picnic, we came for this:
Wafels & Dinges
I love New York's push cart! In a society where tips are a norm, push carts are tips-free. From where I live, we don't pay tips, but restaurants usually implement a mandatory service charge of 10%, that saved me the trouble of calculation.
de Bom, $7
Frankly speaking, I probably won't have come for Wafels & Dinges if not for my companion's recommendation. The vanilla ice cream was superb, and I love the chocolate topping! This friend of mine is kinda good at research, probably the best I have come across. We really enjoyed the waffle and ice cream having come all the way to the middle of Central Park for it. After this, we concluded that our tummies had just taken our dinner, and anything extra would have to be considered supper. In fact, I don't know whether we were so full that we couldn't help taking a short nap on the bench, perhaps also because of the psychological clock in us taking effect after traveling half the globe this morning!
Hard Rock Cafe!
T-shirt - $26, Pin - $10
It was about 7pm when we left Central Park, but still sometime before New York getting dark in the summer. I reckoned it would be a good idea to capture the scene of Times Square before and after dark. And I intend to get a T-shirt from Hard Rock Cafe as a souvenir for this trip, and of course, a timely birthday present for myself! Today would have been my birthday if I'm back home because of the time difference, and I really see this trip as a big birthday present! I thought no one here would know about it, but I was surprise my traveling companion did!
I splashed a little extravagance on myself for a T-shirt & a limited edition pin, both China made. Anyway, it was really difficult to find something I want which is made in the US these days.
Guess who I met in front of Hard Rock Cafe?? $3 if you want a picture with them or their attention. Backside are free of charge! (no pun intended)
Ooh! Superman just got knocked over by Optimus Prime @ Toys R Us!!!
His buddy, Spidey, as usual, is always late. What do u expect? You are not Kristen Dunst! Oops, I mean, Mary Jane :P
My friend wanted to get some Minions stuffed toy for her friend, it was amazing to see almost all Minions snapped up from the store, left the less popular Gru available. It's an eye-opener inside the store, there is also a merry-go-round and a life-size dinosaur inside, very fascinating!
Times Square
Times Square Subway, probably the busiest!
It was aready 9pm, probably still early in New York for Summer, but the jet lag were apparently taking effect, and we badly need a sleep. We had to get back to the hotel. Let me end the day's post with a night view of One World Trade Center, the only building they completed thus far.
Day 2: 04 Aug 2013, Sun (EST/GMT -4) New York
I woke up very early, maybe not quite yet adapted to the time difference. Today was suppose to be my free day, but because of the missing 3rd winner's perhaps, was revamped until we only had morning to ourselves. So, I fit in things that we could only do in morning, breakfast!~
New York Stock Exchange
Federal Hall
Trinity Church
It's not just any ordinary breakfast we were having. From our hotel, we had to walked pass NYSE, Federal Hall, Trinity Church
Line J, Broad St
before reaching Broad St subway station for line J. We were a bit skeptical boarding this train. It was empty, and we were concerned it might be a train not in service, or going for maintenance, so I pulled a guy in uniform, and showed him the map, pointing to Delancey St and asked whether this train goes there (just in case my strange accent puzzled him). He merely pointed to the train to indicate it's the correct train without saying a word. I thanked him nevertheless. He nodded in acknowledgement.
We alighted at Essex St, walked along Delancey St for about 150m, and turned left at Clinton St., walked for about another 400m, reaching our destination at about 8.40am.
Oops! No, this is not the restaurant, but a graffiti opposite the restaurant. Nice huh?
Clinton St Baking Company
It was another 20 minutes before the restaurant opened its door, and we were already at the end of the queue. The restaurant was rather tiny, on just one level. Amazing huh? It came in first in Poor Taste Magazine's 100 Best Brunch Spots in America, Time Magazine rated their pancakes best in New York City in 2005 & 2008, among many other accolades.
Seriously, when I saw the queue, I wanted to back off, but my friend was rather insistent. So we waited.
Fortunately, after the first batch of patrons were seated, the hostess started taking our names and gave us estimated time to be back (since we did not have any local mobile phone number), so we could walk around rather than queuing boringly. But there was nothing much to see in the vicinity nevertheless. We were finally seated at 9.55am, just an advice, avoid going there in a big group, preferably just two. And of course, avoid weekend if possible.
Crispy Potato Pancakes with house smoked salmon, caviar, and lemon cream fraiche, $17++
Pancakes with Warm Maple Butter & Banana Walnut, $12++
Clinton St Baking is famous for their pancakes, so my friend ordered the one with warm maple butter and she could choose from a filling of blueberry, banana walnut, or chocolate chunk. I was quietly hoping she would choose blueberry or chocolate, but she went banana! LOL! I didn't want to order the same item just so she could also try something else, beside, I don't like banana. So I had a crispy potato pancakes with house smoked salmon, caviar, and lemon cream fraiche.
I didn't try the maple pancake, but from the look of it, it was certainly great. As for the potato pancakes, it was above average, but the salmon brought the taste to another level. Caviar was sweet, but the overall flavour was a little overshadowed by the heavier lemon creme fraiche.
I remember paying about paying about $50 for these, including two hot beverages. They included a mandatory tips in their bill, so I didn't bother to tip further. Anyway, it was an eye opener (but rather costly for a breakfast, and I was already on the 2nd of my 5 x US$100 note.. a bit fast leh.. haha)!
Bus M9
We finished our breakfast at 11am, and had to meet the rest of the group at 1pm for lunch, so we couldn't really venture much after taking away the time for the trip back and a few miscellaneous. Bought a big bottle of drink from a nearby supermarket and boarded bus M9 back. It was the first time we were taking a public bus, and I wanted to try if our 7-Day Metro card could be used for buses as well. It worked!
New York buses were not very punctual, we had to wait for 20 minutes, it came 10 minutes late at 11.35am. I prefer taking a bus if not for the traffic on the road. I could explore more of the city and the bus was more roomy. But as this was a last minute decision, and I did not have internet access, I could only estimate the bus route, but not its stop. We ended up having to alight at West Thames St, some 500 meters away from our hotel. Good thing we saw One World Trade Center as a landmark, and walked towards it to find our hotel.
West Thames Park
We reached the hotel close to 12pm, rest for an hour before joining the group for lunch. All of us waited in front of hotel entrance, but didn't see any noticeable car to pick us up. I saw a stretched limousine drove by, and joked to Anna I thought she would be so generous to get us a stretched limousine. She laughed it off.
But as we still didn't see the car after about 30 minutes, Anna picked up her phone and call, it turned out the stretched limousine was really the car we were expecting!
Interior of the stretched limousine
Anna told me, "Your wish comes true!" She was half right, it was more appropriately, my birthday wish came true! LOL! Well, of course, she didn't know. And, according to New York time, I was born the same moment some decades ago! :D So, it was my second time taking a stretched limousine in as many visit to the US!
Pera Soho
We met with minor congestion on the road on our way to Soho. Guess what? That place was actually about 1km from Clinton St, and both eateries are actually very near to the same main road, East Houston St! Anyway, there, we were joined by two other girls in front of Pera, they were there to take pictures and video recording of us to elaborate MasterCard's priceless moments. But I forgot their names :P
Anna made arrangement for us to have our lunch at Pera's roof top, she suppose we found indoor eating too ordinary, and dining al fresco style under the gentle sunshine on a rooftop will be spectacular. As a courtesy, we didn't want to correct her. We Singaporeans are pampered by sunshine throughout the year, hence in general, we don't dine under the sun. This was not just my personal opinion, when Anna walked away, the four of us chattered and shared this common philosophy, we all felt hot! LOL!
Crispy Phyllo Rolls
Mediterranean Fries with Sea Salt & Herbs
Chicken 'Adana' Lavash Twist with Eastern Mediterranean Spices, Italian Parsley, Garden Tomatoes & Oregano Fries
erm.. I can't remember what my friend ordered... :P
We each had a set lunch ($29), which comprised a juice or cocktail, a side, and a main course.
My friend had a juice, fries, but I can't remember her main course. I ordered a Turkish Apricot Bellini cocktail, Phyllo Rolls, and Chicken 'Adana' Lavash Twist. I had a cocktail because I wanted to try something I had never heard of, Phyllo Rolls so that my friend and I could try different sides, and a grilled main as I believed that was their specialty.
The fries, though not as crisp as McDonald's, offered a unique taste. It was still salty, and a mild vegetable sweetness. The Phyllo Rolls actually contained cheese inside. While the chicken twist was nice and a little spicy, somewhat like our otak but less spicy. I tried to finish all our fries, and came out quite full.
Time and again, we were interrupted by the two girls who took video interview of us. An interview was suppose to be conducted the subsequent day, but Anna said since the 3rd winner could not join us, it would be cancelled. I suppose they tagged along with our lunch now.
We finished our lunch around 4pm, and next on the agenda would be our half day tour.
I have to say, I have high expectation of the half day tour, especially when it includes a visit to the Empire State Building, which would have cost me at least $27 to the 86th floor Main Deck.The Top Deck at 102nd floor would require topping up another $17. So, with anticipation, we started our tour after lunch.
When we proceeded to the entrance of Pera Soho, a dark Mercedes mini bus was already waiting for us. I thought we would still be taking the stretched limousine, but no. I guess this mini bus was from the tour agent, along with a driver, and a tour guide by the name of Bryan (or was it Brian?). After a short introduction, we joined him (as well as the two lady photographers) for the half day tour.
On our way, we passed by the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, Bryan highly recommended it. I read about it from guide books, but seeing it even though from a distance was far awesome than just reading words describing it, with all kind of US jet fighters and even space shuttle on deck!
Cathedral of St John The Divine
I was rather surprise Bryan brought us all the way to Cathedral of St John The Divine in Amsterdam Ave, a cathedral I didn't even heard of from the guide books. Bryan was informative, this massive cathedral has a history going back to 1888, when it was designed, but up till today, has yet to be completed due to many factors, due to war, material, money, politics etc. Pardon me, I am unable to reprise what Bryan had told us in entirety, perhaps a search into google will get you more info. Let me share a few more pictures that I was allowed to take and didn't constraint much by light or rather the lack of it.
Our next destination, as I learned, would be Fort Tryon Park. Yet another itinerary I have never heard before.
Fort Tryon Park
Seriously, the park itself was nothing spectacular, but its history is. Bryan went on to elaborate why George Washington stationed his troop here to battle the British mercenaries, and also why John D. Rockefeller, Jr. bought over the land on the opposite of Hudson River just to preserve a greenery view from Fort Tryon Park. He's an exemplary tour guide, but nevertheless, this itinerary didn't really interest me.
Central Park
Our next itinerary happened to be Central Park. We had just been here a day ago, but for the benefit of our traveling companions, I hid my disappointment, but I don't understand why Bryan brought us to this particular spot. Central Park is very large, with an area of 3.399 square km. There are many signature spots in Central Park and this was perhaps the most ordinary. Bryan went on with some history of Central Park, and I thought it would be better if he could at least have done it at a more prominent area.
Grand Central Station 100th Anniversary!
Our next destination, Grand Central Station, is extraordinary. Because this year, it celebrates 100th anniversary! I thought it must be such an honour, to be able to be here this year, moreover for free! Grand Central Station, otherwise known as Grand Central Terminal, is large, but I never see any chaotic crowds normally expected in stations of such status. And right here, Bryan was brilliant! He proved to be very informative on the history of Grand Central Station, brought us through Campbell Apartment (now a lounge), and showed us the fascinating information counter (or was it?) where there was a hidden stair, or lift, that a slim-built person can squeeze through the the bottom level.
It was a regret we don't have much time to explore the station in further details, even not for the number of tracks, Grand Central deserves to be the greatest station on Earth just for the numerous architectures and secrets inside. Bryan even shared with us a story revolving around former US President, Franklin D. Roosevelt and his private train platform to cater for his disability which was somewhat made public only in late 1980s.
Part of Grand Central Terminal ceiling, design conceived by Paul César Helleu
Truly, this was the most interesting part of the guided tour, I still have much desire to learn more about this wonderful architecture, but it was already 7pm, and we still have some itineraries to go. After this, the two lady photographers left us, and we headed for Times Square.
And the gentleman in white with Fedora hat is our tour guide, Bryan
I was wondering where our driver parked the vehicle while we were touring Times Square, this is like New York's capital (it's not, it's actually Albany), and almost every visitors flood here. Bryan was explaining he once tried to joined a New Year countdown, and gotta stand in the crowd for more than 6 hours! He couldn't move because, once he left, he could never get back to his place again. And, he added, most people who joined the countdown are almost certainly tourists, that means not native New Yorkers. And there's the TKTS here, the ticketing office which sells discounted Broadway shows, it doesn't help alleviating the crowd really, in fact exacerbating it! LOL!
The top musicals in Broadway
Alright, so much for Times Square, next stop, Battery Park! (Oops? What happened to the Empire State Building??)
Sunset over New Jersey
Kinda like this photo, should have taken it sooner when the sun's still visible, but it wasn't so nice to interrupt Bryan's introduction. The star of the spot is not this, it's the most famous lady in the world!....
Battery Park City Pier A
Till now, I have more or less confirmed the principle of this tour was basically a zero admission trip, meaning we would not be going to any attraction which charges admission tickets. Pity, apart from Grand Central Station, all other itineraries we visited with the tour (which we fancy), I could have done it myself with better time coordination (such as staying longer in places I like and do away with unnecessary extras).
But that didn't take away the fact that Bryan is a good guide, I ain't blaming MasterCard either, they are kind enough to have sponsored this. The thing is, I had traveled so long to reach New York, and officially, we would only be staying 3 nights in New York, there were many things I wanna see, which I won't mind paying for it. This is the reason why I don't like taking tour, I'm a DIY person. Having said that, I'm sure some itineraries I planned didn't suit my traveling companion too. Which is why I appreciate her understanding that we need to split for our respective agenda time and again, though I was a bit worried about her because New York was not so safe the last time I visited. Anyway, Bryan repeatedly mentioned that New York was getting safer and friendlier, which is true to a certain extent.
We ended our tour around 8.10pm, the mini bus drove us back to the hotel. I was not about to rest for the day, as we have limited nights available, and suggested visiting the Statue of Liberty at night, via Staten Island ferry. My friend was initially reluctant to join me, but gave in later on (It was later that I learned she did this in her previous visit).
Staten Island Ferry Terminal (Whitehall, Manhattan)
It was 9pm, the weather was cooling. We took line R subway from Reactor St to Whitehall St, which happened to be its terminal station since the maintenance work started. The ferry is free of charge. Staten Island is the only borough of New York City not connected by land nor bridge, since it is quite a distance apart, the city government provides free ferry service. But actually, Staten Island is much closer to New Jersey then to New York.
Staten Island Ferry external compartment
Staten Island Ferry inner compartment, and there's another two levels underneath!
I was surprise at the crowd taking the ferry despite its frequency, I thought there would not be so much Staten Island resident getting back after work. But actually, most passengers were indeed not residents. It was evident when most people took up the side on the exterior compartment facing the Statue of Liberty! And then after the ferry docked at Staten Island, majority of the passengers just walked around and took the return ferry back.
We had an excellent view of the statue as well as the illuminated Manhattan skyline. I tried to take some pictures with my Canon 600D, but the unstable ferry and light condition did not allow me to take any crisp pictures at all.
We returned to the hotel around 10.30pm, surf a little net before returning to our room. Slept late. And that's my birthday in New York!
Day 3: 05 Aug 2013, Mon (EST/GMT -4) New York
Bowling Green Bull
I would be meeting my NY friend late morning and then having an early dinner follow by Beyoncé concert at night, so realistically, I only have morning to spare. As early as 6.30am, I quietly left my sleeping companion at the hotel and headed for Bowling Green. I want some pictures with the signature bull without those disgusting mainlanders niggling around (I said so because a day earlier, those mercurial mainland tourists kept interrupting me from taking pictures without even asking, very rude and annoying. Don't these shameless animals know how to queue?).
New York's City Bike, a good alternative to travel on road
Staten Island Ferry Terminal at Whitehall
After that, I was determined to take the free Staten Island ferry again. This time, to take better day pictures of the Statue of Liberty as well as Manhattan skyline, and of course, spend a little time at Staten Island. I reached Whitehall Ferry Terminal (a.k.a. Staten Island Ferry Terminal @ Manhattan) around 7.15am, minus the crowd we witnessed the night before.
Any guess??
In the day, I am able to see more interesting things, including this wooden pier. Most of the time, if not all, we would see cement pier. Moreover in New York, for a hugh passenger ferry, using such wooden structure was a puzzle to me. Cost is one factor, but I suppose in long term, a concrete pier makes for better maintenance? Anyway, let's get on with the main subjects... (^.^)
Hudson River separating New Jersey from the Big Apple
Manhattan Skyline
I guess this lady doesn't need further introduction? The work of French designer Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, Statue of Liberty was meant as a gift to the American people as a symbol of freedom and democracy in 1886. I don't want to touch on details, but if the statue is gifted to United States today, I'm pretty sure her right hand will be holding a big apple and her left, an iPad displaying the Declaration of Independence!
Alright, so much for the joke, but Statue of Liberty was closed for a prolonged period after 911 for security reason.The pedestal was reopened in 2004, and the statue itself in 2009.
Currently, access to the crown is limited to a small capacity and required long booking in advance. Recently, due to Hurricane Sandy, the statue was again closed for a brief period. Access to the pedestal is free, but the return ferry cost $17, with the crown an additional $3. Our trip was confirmed almost at the last minute, with itinerary not even committed before our flight for reasons stated previously. It was a regret we could not gain access to the crown, as such, I would rather forgo paying $17 just for the pedestal (& ferry). Personally, I reckon that viewing from ferry to Staten Island saves a great deal, and of course, you get the privilege to see the illuminated statue at night!
Staten Island's St George Ferry Terminal
Borough Hall (front)
The ferry reached Staten Island in about 25 minutes. This time round, I didn't turn around for a return ferry, I decided to explore a little about the island. Once getting out of the terminal, the first building that got in sight was the Borough Hall.
Court House
Museum & Police Station (right)
Richmond County Bank Ballpark cum Staten Island Yankees
I turned right into the main road Richmond Terrace, and walked towards a prominent stadium Richmond County Bank Ballpark, also known as the homeground for Staten Island Yankees, an affiliate of New York Yankees, and currently playing in the minor league baseball. They were last crowned champion in 2011. Alright, I admit I'm a baseball idiot, I basically just looked about and carried on.
911 Memorial
Turned right after Richmond County Bank Ballpark, there lies Staten Island's very own 911 Memorial. It was just a simple architecture, with the victims' names inscribed on the plaque. I saw many firemen's names, felt particularly sad of their loss, these are really brave heroes who sacrificed their lives for the sake of many others. My utmost respect to them!
Statue of Liberty & Manhattan
From the 911 Memorial, I can see the distant Statue of Liberty and Manhattan downtown skyline. The overlapping landmarks is truly spectacular!
St George Theater
I decided not to take the same road I came from, and walked along Stuyvesant Place to St George Theatre. I was wrong to have assumed it came with flashy signboards like Broadway's. It was not opened yet, and easy to have overlooked it being a theater in the first place.
Staten Island is a place very non-New York liked, with a small town atmosphere and unassuming appearance. In fact, for St George theater, there was only two small placard telling me it's a theater.
Staten Island Ferry Terminal @ St George
After leaving St George Theater, it was 8.30am, about time to return for breakfast. Trying to find cheap breakfast at the ferry terminal, but nothing appealed to me. Just then, I saw the ferry approaching, and decided to get back to Manhattan for my breakfast. Guess what I got eventually?
Anyway, before I close the chapter on Staten Island, I won't say there's very fascinating itinerary there, but for those who's keen to consider visiting, this link provides some useful maps than what you can google: http://www.visitstatenisland.com/
Dunkin Donuts!
I got a Chocolated Frosted donut, a Strawberry, and a Lemon Custard. The tea was complimentary from the hotel Living Room (a.k.a. lobby)
I was expecting a call from my New York friend, and as I didn't have a local SIM card (I actually ordered one online for US$25, but it failed to arrive after two weeks), I had to rely on the hotel room phone (gosh! it was costly, US$12 I think!!).
My NY friend called and told me she was caught in the traffic, and we eventually met at the lobby at 12pm, and she gifted me 2 packs of Godiva chocolates! I was surprised she brought her daughter along too! Great, I chatted with her a couple of times, but I found her daughter was rather timid in person (well, so was I actually, LOL!) :P Oh, I was very surprised she spoke much better Cantonese than me, in big part married to a Hong Kong husband I suppose.
My friend and her daughter brought me walked around town, and had lunch at Il Palazzo, an Italian restaurant in much shrunk Little Italy.
We were first served bread, which we never ordered, then came this dish. I couldn't remember the name for it, it was kinda Italian which comprised chicken breast meat, a large mushroom, and salad. My friend told me Americans prefer chicken breast meat, hence. But for Chinese, we prefer something else. Quite true!
The next dish was calamari rings, again, couldn't remember its exact name. But this was awesome, firstly, the accompanied sauce was a little spicy and sweet, but most importantly, the calamari rings had none of that rubbery chew. I wondered whether it was the mastery of the chef or that simply because of the different ocean these calamari came from.
I think there were a couple of other dished she ordered, but I didn't take pictures. I wanted to pay for the lunch, but she just refused to hand over the bill.
After lunch, she left her daughter with her close buddy, and brought me around other part of town. I was very tempted to buy American Ginseng when we passed by Chinatown, but I was afraid she might pay for it, just like the lunch.
Pasticceria Ferrara Espresso Bar's New York Cheesecake
Pasticceria Ferrara Espresso Bar
Then, she brought me to Pasticceria Ferrara Espresso Bar to savour some nice dessert, particularly New York Cheesecake! If I remember correctly, I found Ferrara's cheesecake slightly better than Junior's, the context was richer, but the cheese taste was not too overwhelmed.
It was about 3.30pm after we finished the desserts. I knew I got to go, for I had to join the group for dinner at 5pm, and because I might get lost along the way, some time buffer would be a good idea. I wanted to foot the bill, but then again, outsmart by my friend once more. Fortunately I bought something for her from Singapore as well. She was kind enough to led me to the nearest subway, and I made my way back to my hotel around 4.35pm, just enough for me to take a short break.
My traveling companion was already back from her (yet another) outlet shopping trip from Jersey Gardens (@_@). I was really amazed at her ability to venture around at such ease without proper research! I couldn't have done it that easily.
We came down to the Living Room to meet with the rest, then proceeded to the ground floor for the stretched limousine to Tribeca Grill. I was a little disappointed when I learned this was not a Michelin-starred restaurant as promised, but the most talked about fact about this restaurant was, it is partly owned by Robert De Niro!
Pan Seared Sea Scallops - Chanterelles & Leeks, Black Truffle Madeira Vinaigrette, $33
Perhaps we were early, there weren't many diners when we arrived. No thank to my NY friend, I was still rather filled, hence I was absolutely pleased to see scallops available on the menu. It was the most expensive entrée after the beef dish. The scallops were large, most significantly, they were done without much of the chewy texture, wondered how the chef done that. I felt the vinaigrette did a good job adding further sweetness to the scallops. I let my traveling companion had one of these too! I ordered a cocktail Hemingway's Third Safari ($13), comprising Goslings Dark Rum, Aperol, Lime Juice, Maraschino. I don't know how to describe it, except that almost all cocktails tasted like some cough syrup! LOL! Others around the table ordered juices, well I suppose I came all the way here, ought to try something unique isn't it?
New York Strip Steak - Parmigiano Fingerling Potatoes, $38
My friend had a New York Strip Steak. I'm not a beef eater, never tried this. But I guess she liked it nevertheless, pity she couldn't finish it, quite a big portion. If I remember correctly, I was the only one from the group finished everything on my plate.
Raspberry Cheesecake
Anna also ordered a couple of desserts to be shared around. One of them was this Raspberry Cheesecake. I think this was the best cheesecake I tried throughout my New York trip, it was smooth, light, and much sweetened by the raspberry jam.
Tribeca Chocolate Cake
Another was this Chocolate Cake. I thought I found it normal, thick, sweet, purely for chocolate lover. Frankly speaking, I was too full to appreciate it.
We finished our dinner around 6pm, and promptly left for Barclays Center afterward. Traffic was heavy, we took close to an hour getting there.
Upon arrival, Anna distributed the concert tickets. She added that these were the most expensive tickets on sale, any categories closer were all reserved by Beyoncé's or her staff's associates. She was also kind enough to hide my camera in her bag to sneak pass security screening. The queue took about 20 minutes to clear screening, it was still early, my friend and I decided to walk around the stadium shops. On concert day, they mostly sell concert related memorabilia or food.
Partial Stage
Even at 8.10pm, when the show should already have started, the seats were still mostly empty. It seemed the local knew well Beyoncé would be late... very late. Some 5 minutes later, the concert began. But it wasn't Beyoncé on stage. It was Luke James. If I'm not wrong, Beyoncé only appeared at 9.25pm. And then, the stadium turned alive!
It's better taking picture off the large display than the stage
Beyoncé was powerful on stage, she really brought the crowd to ecstasy! Almost the entire stadium stood throughout her performance, except the four of us (me, my friend, and the other couple). Anna was very nice to follow suit. A pity I couldn't really appreciate her songs, and I can tell, the other couple too! We were in New York mainly for SHOPPING! :P
The concert ended 11.35pm, we were expecting encore, but the crowd knew better, they started to leave the stadium.
As expected, the traffic flow outside the stadium was chaotic but dispersing in a disciplined manner. Our chauffeur took awhile to reach us, by the time we reached hotel, it was the next day morning 12.35am.
Day 4: 06 Aug 2013, Tue (EST/GMT -4) New York
Alright, today's the day we gotta shift hotel. Early morning 6.50am, MasterCard surprised us by delivering two free bags to us!
It was very heavy, we found an automatic umbrella inside, along with two nicely wrapped presents. My friend unwrapped hers immediately, the smaller present was a Beyoncé CD, the larger and very heavy gift was Beyoncé coffee table book. Ah.. and I was pondering getting some souvenir over the concert merchandise kiosk, like a cap or something. Good thing I didn't. :P
We re-packed our luggage, for me, I was actually considering getting a bag to stuffed my belongs in, since my lousy haversack gave way even before I reached New York, so this handy bag was a timely pressie. But I suspect not for my friend perhaps, although she was sourcing a backpack.
Like I mentioned, we needed to shift hotel today, so we probably had a morning to spare before checking out W Hotel Downtown. A day before, we had booked World Trade Center 911 Memorial tickets with the help of the very friendly hotel concierge lady at @$2, so as to avoid the queue. But we were actually early at 9.45am, before their opening hours. I noted that the walk-in queue, though with a number of about thirty-odds, proceeded real fast. Entry is actually free of charge, but voluntary contribution is appreciated. As for us, online processing required some fee.
WTC 911 Memorial South Pool
Before 10am, we were already inside the memorial. What we were immediately met with, are two giant pools. These were where the original towers used to stand, and victims' names are inscribed in bronze parapets around the pools.
I have strong sentiments towards WTC. One of my bigger regrets was not visiting it back in 1997 due to cost constraint, and four years later, it was gone in a terrorist attack. I was delighted to be given a room at W Hotel Downtown with a view facing it, it was as if the memorial is calling for my return.. And my deepest regret for those who had lost their lives, especially the brave officers who sacrificed their lives saving others.
The survivor tree on the left picture is very special. It not only was the sole Callery pear tree existed in WTC before the attack, it is also the only tree remaining albeit with considerable damage. This tree was nursed back to health in a New York City park, and grown back to 30 feet tall from a 8 foot reduced stump following the attack, before returning to the WTC site in 2010. Today, while supported by temporary guide wires as it takes root, it embodies the story of survival and resilience of the American people.
There is also a museum in the Ground Zero site, it was not yet opened to public, but a peep inside revealed two steel tridents from the original facade of the North Tower. Like the survivor tree, they returned to the site in 2010, and it showcased the severity of the attack, so violent that even such strong steel gave way, part of them melted.
On ending our visit, we found ourselves at the memorial shop, where they are selling a series of memorabilia to raise fund for the restoration work. We didn't buy anything, but I was impressed by the Rebuilding Chopper below.
World Trade Center Rebuilding Chopper
To quote from the signboard, the Rebuilding Chopper was designed and custom-built by Paul Jr, drawing inspiration from the 16-acre World Trade Center site. The front wheel was crafted from hand-poured glass to evoke the crystalline form of the new 1 World Trade Center. The bike's front end emulates the diamond-shaped bracing of the new 3 World Trade Center's planned facade. A ribbed gas tank parallels the white spires of the site's transportation hub, and the back wheel, distinguished by its mirror-finish, is a homage to the memorial's two reflecting pools. The exhaust is modeled after 2 World Trade Center.
Zuccotti Park Joie de Vivre
We ended our visit to the memorial around 10.20am, and proceeded to Sephora near Zuccotti Park for some shopping. We wanted to get our host Anna a small token, and eventually decided on a giftcard for her, including the receipt. I thought if she really could not find anything suitable over there, she could always ask for a refund. After all, it's really not our culture giving cash, but we don't know what Anna likes, at least the American system allows patrons to get cash refund. LOL!
We got back to hotel around 11am, and handed Anna our token to her at her room. Soon afterwards, we checked out from W Hotel Downtown at 11.30am. We decided to proceed to Brooklyn's Union Hotel and leave our luggage there rather than leaving it here, and see if we could get an early check-in.
Our initial plan was to take subway R directly from Reactor St station directly to Union St station, Brooklyn. But with R interrupted between Whitehall St and Court St (Brooklyn), we needed to take line 4 or 5 from Wall St to Fulton St and transfer another metro to Atlantic Av - Barclay Center, from where we decided to walk. After all, Union Hotel situates in-between Atlantic Av and Union St. But apparently, our map was not drawn to scale, as the hotel actually locates much closer to Union St, a 5 minutes walk compare to 15 minutes walk (alright, it was slower because my friend's luggage was really heavy, lol!).
Atlantic Av - Barclay Center
We reached Union Hotel at 12.30pm, as expected, we were not allowed to check-in yet. The front desk guy even sarcastically pointed us to the reservation print-out to highlight the check-in hours. I understood that, damn it, I can read, I was just asking any chance for an early check-in, or if not, could we leave our luggage somewhere. That idiot simply pointed us to the basement luggage deposit room.
We took the slow lift to basement, an elderly gentleman let us in with the access key, I thought he was one of the staffs, but turned out, he was also another hotel guest.
Well, after these, it was time for lunch and we decided to head for Gray's Papaya. This time, we took line R & transferred line D at Atlantic Av, to W 4th St. Actually, line D and N ply the same route as R along Fourth Av in Brooklyn, but R is a local train, where D & N are express line that do not stop at Union St.
We reached W 4th St around 1pm. Immediately on top of the subway, we found a pizzeria next to the subway exit selling plain cheese pizza slice for 99 cents! It was very cheap, and we wanted to give it a try! This is my favourite way of eating during traveling actually, cheap and time saving. I prefer to spend more time sight-seeing and shopping :D Spices such as chili powder, garlic, and other toppings were available but my friend opted not to as she had a sore throat. By the way, on the glass panel of the pizzeria was some newspaper interview asking why the owner selling pizza slice cheap, he mentioned that he wanted to make pizza affordable for the poor. But I don't know whether the real reason was...
Gray's Papaya
Just a stone throw away up the road, we found Gray's Papaya, the reason we came here for. They are not selling papaya by the way, though they do serve some papaya drink among others. They are operating round the clock, and ever since they made it big, many other papaya-named restaurants soon followed suit, again, has nothing to do with papaya really. My friend got their signature hotdog and a papaya drink, and I got myself another plain cheese pizza... for 99 cents too, as well as a Pina Colada, a drink comprising coconut & pineapple, think and nice! As for the pizza, tasted similar to the one we just tried.
Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church
After our lunch, we left for 5th Avenue around 2.30pm. My friend had wanted to get some souvenir from Tiffany & Co., and I thought since she got a free trip, it would be sweet to buy something to commemorate this trip, and Tiffany's really a great choice! She initially got a turquoise pressie pendant, and during the 1 hour wait for the pendant to be hooked to her chain, I really felt asleep on the sofa. When she later learned that the turquoise coating might be worn off in time, she wanted for an exchange. It was then I decided I'd better go elsewhere while she rejoined the service queue.
So, we agreed to meet in Hard Rock Cafe at 6pm later. Then I went for some sightseeing.
clockwise from left: Tiffany & Co., Apple, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
I took pictures of Tiffany & Co., got lost around Apple Store at 5th Ave, before finding the metro station, and headed for 86th St. I knew I didn't have time for Guggenheim, but I'd still love some pictures of it.
After Guggenheim Museum, I decided against taking the metro, because it was quite a few blocks away. So I took bus M1 around 4.23pm along Museum Miles towards midtown to here.. any idea?? It was a short stretch, but the traffic condition was not smooth even on a weekday afternoon and took me a good 15 minutes for what I reckoned probably need less than 5 without cars on the road.
Well, maybe this picture will tell better!
Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 commercial buildings covering 22 acres (89,000 square meter) between 48th and 51st streets in New York City. It was built by the Rockefeller family, and located in the center of Midtown Manhattan, spanning the area between Fifth Avenue and Sixth Avenue. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987.
I was visiting in summer, and what turned out to be an ice-skating ring during the winter was a restaurant under the famous sculpture. I found that Rockefeller Center has more Greek reminiscence than I initially aware, and of course, much bigger than what I thought was mere one building.
(From left): NBC News, Saks Fifth Ave
And, there are a few prominent buildings surrounding Rockefeller Center too!
I also visited the NBA Store nearby for some bargains, but apart from merchandise of some star players (such as Dwight Howard & Kevin Garnet) who had left their previous teams, the stuffs there were not cheap.
Majestic Theater
After that, I went over to Majestic theater to purchase next evening's ticket to Broadway's longest standing musical, The Phantom of the Opera. I presented the discounted vouchers printed from some internet portals, but the staff behind the window told me the cheapest tickets were going for $50 ($5 more), and if I were to use the vouchers, I had to get the $130 tickets. Very well, this was one regret I missed during my previous visit in 1997, I badly wanted to watch it in Broadway. I was disgusted when allocated the worst seats of that ticket range, the seats behind me were selling at just $27, and I got the corner seat! :(
After that, I went over to Hard Rock Cafe to meet my friend, who didn't turn up until some 30 minutes later. I wasn't very happy of course, but she explained she lost her way a little without the map. We left for the hotel immediately.
Union Hotel Room 405
Room access card , internet password, and my musical ticket
We reached Union Hotel around 7.30pm, the attendant behind the tiny counter had changed to a young lady, who looked rather reserved. It was later that I learned she's probably not an American, from some Eastern European countries I reckoned. We got the luggage room key from the young lady, and promptly carried our belongings to the room in the corner. As anticipated, the room was rather tiny, barely left much room beside the two twin bed. My friend asked for the inner bed, lucky her, my bed was just in front of the air-con, and I could feel the noise and vibration at night!
Right here, let me share a little about why I select this hotel. Apart from offering nice breakfast, which easily offset more than $10 daily off my expenses, Union Hotel is close to Atlantic Av, where Brooklyn's LIRR is located. That offers a convenient and fast service to JFK. In addition, their rate was cheap, disregarding the fact that their rooms are tiny, but we hardly enjoy hotel's amenities anyway, we just need a bed to sleep, shower, and good wifi access. In addition, you can enjoy rate discount if you enroll as their member online before booking, my room came out to less than US$150 per night for a twin room. Also, their location is very near Park Slope, and has a number of restaurants within walking distance, not to mention switching hotels was suppose to be a breeze considering subway R links our two hotels directly if not for the maintenance work. These kind of criteria easy demand another $100 per day if we were to stay in Manhattan. For two nights, my saving was significant! I'm not promoting for the hotel, but do consider staying around Barclay Center / Atlantic Av as an alternative to Manhattan, it's less congested, hence less chaotic, and probably safer. Manhattan anyway, is just a short train ride away from this Brooklyn transport hub.
Window view from Room 405, with Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower in the background
Zuzu Ramen
We didn't stay long in the room, and left for dinner at 7.40pm. I had done some research, and found Zuzu Ramen across the street had many good reviews (and some critics as well). We walked into the restaurant, which had very dim ambiance. We almost thought it was not opened yet (it only opens at night and not during the day). The waiter was a very courteous Asian, promptly showed us to a seat. We ordered the two most recommended ramen from the reviews, I had a Green Curry-Miso Ramen ($10), while my friend, who had a sore throat, had the 'Zuzu' Ramen ($14).
I was pretty sure the Green Curry-Miso Ramen was unique, as I had never heard of it in and out of Japan. My friend brought to my attention the cook behind the semi-open kitchen looked like a Middle East chef, nothing offensive, but seriously, I expected a Japanese :P
Green Curry-Miso Ramen, $10
'Zuzu' Ramen, $14
The Green Curry-Miso Ramen came with charshu, slow cooked egg, & bok choy. But actually it contained much more than that, I suspect the presence of peppermint. The charshu was slightly torched, and very tender, and overall, the noodle was rather appetising. However, the same could not be said of the more expensive 'Zuzu' Ramen, which came with charshu, slow cooked egg, bamboo shoots, & bok choy in a smoky dashi broth. Frankly speaking, I didn't find the broth remarkable, in fact, it was mediocre. apart from the charshu, vegetables were aplenty, so much so I almost thought it was vegetable ramen if not for the charshu. My friend couldn't finish it, so I finished the job so as not to waste it.
After dinner, it was around 9.20pm. My friend wanted to walked around to get some drink, while I was determined to visit Brooklyn Heights Promenade. I took line R from Union St subway and alighted at Court St.
The walk along Montague St was enjoyable, mostly some nostalgic shops, restaurants, and I also came across a mini-mart, where I bought 2 packs of dental floss (Hey, it's surprisingly cheap over there!). I reached the promenade a little after 10pm, and was awed by the spectacular view!
Beautiful weather, spectacular lights, one wonder why Manhattan was not among the top 3 night scene in the world!
I max out my DSLR zoom, and it still failed to capture the entire glamour!
I attempted to combine a little Manhattan, a little Brooklyn Heights Promenade, with Brooklyn Bridge in the middle, trying to project the prominence of Brooklyn Heights for capturing the best of Manhattan downtown skyline, but perhaps better in the following picture:
When the famous Brooklyn Bridge was built in 1883, it was the world's longest suspension bridge and the first steel-wire suspension bridge. After 130 years and many monsters and terrorists destruction (in the movies, that is), it still stands proudly being one of the most prominent bridges in America.
Manhattan, from Brooklyn Bridge Park
The short walk along Brooklyn Heights Promenade was scenic and blissful. Although separated by a highway, the city built a link platform to ensure a smooth stroll. Many dog walkers and joggers could be seen 'patrolling' along the coastline just beside but seems so far away from the piers.
Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
Underneath Brooklyn Bridge, at the Brooklyn Bridge Park, stands Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. It was very late when I reached there, I was a little disappointed didn't get a chance to try it. Many said it was good, but a little overpriced.
It was 11pm after I finished taking the pictures. As I walked towards the bus stop, I saw bus B25 passing by. Some passengers started boarding the bus, I rushed over & asked the driver whether he would be stopping by Borough Hall where I could make a transfer of subway. Only after alighting that I realised, it also stopped outside a subway entrance to Jay St - MetroTech on its next stop, where I eventually boarded line R back to the hotel.
I reached hotel around 11.30pm, my friend was still awake. I took a quick shower and slept late.
Day 5: 07 Aug 2013, Wed (EST/GMT -4) New York
Counting down to the last 2nd day of our stay, we had this day planned in for a visit to Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets. I had pre-booked the coach tickets online for @$37, $5 cheaper than walk-in rate. I could get cheaper bus ticket for $32 from some Chinese coach co, but the schedule were rather constrained.
Station Restaurant at the junction of 4th Ave & Union St, Brooklyn
Anyway, we woke up early. My friend decided she would not want to carry the heavy Beyoncé coffee table book back home, so she gifted it to the receptionist at the front desk, who, by this time, was another lady (whom I somehow suspected related to the younger one). My friend told me the lady was surprised, and thought she would have to pay for it! LOL!
After that, we took our breakfast at Station Restaurant, locating just beside Union St's subway exit, some 200 meters away. Frankly speaking, this restaurant is one of the main reasons that prompted me in selecting Union Hotel. The review on Union Hotel has been divided, but Station Restaurant, which had some agreement with the hotel to provide breakfast, has been overwhelmed with credit. The owner of the restaurant was very friendly, and had a short chat with us that he had been to Singapore, albeit some 30 over years ago. OMG, he was prehistoric! LOL! Me bad, just kidding, but Singapore undergone massive changes since then, surpassing most of Asian countries.
Egg Omelette with Bacon & Potato
They have a wide range of breakfast available, as I wanted to have a full breakfast so that I could spent more time shopping in Woodbury Common, I ordered egg omelette with bacon & potatoes. But I didn't expect they also gave me the French toast :D
The breakfast was homely & tasty, but I won't say outstanding. I also had a cup of tea.
Pancakes
My friend had their pancakes, it came with assortment of fruits and of course, maple syrup (or was it butter? I can't remember). I was thinking, luckily I didn't order the pancakes, I don't usually take fruit, particularly banana & apple.
We finished our breakfast and left for Port Authority Bus Terminal at 8.20am. We wanted to take the 9am coach, but when I made the booking, there was not the option to choose. Hence, a couple of days earlier, my friend actually went over to check it out. It seemed that capacity would be first come first served, free seating, no pre-booking of seat. Meaning to say if you encounter a long queue, sorry, wait for the next bus. It was a good thing my friend went to Jersey Gardens a couple of days ago, she could still remember the way to the Short Line Bus bay, and we boarded a coach that departed at 9.10am.
We reached Woodbury Common at 10 minutes passed ten, and agreed that it would be better if we went for our separate agenda again, and met every two or three hours to discuss bargain or have meals together. But first, we went over to the information office to get the discount booklet by presenting our MasterCard (or use the bus coupon), but for me, I found the booklet not helpful after the day, as the discount were mostly given to individual outlet purchases of $100 & above. I didn't have so much thing to buy. I had a strategy to go clockwise, starting from American Eagles.
Frankly speaking, I didn't find many genuine bargain that were good enough to make me splurge, I wanted to buy a jean, as I just learned before the trip, that I almost ran out on a pair of presentable jeans. Throughout the day, I eventually found a pair of cK jeans at $19! Apart from that, I got a little token for Sinead, whom I was still grateful for getting me on an SQ flight, saved me hours in transit!
Applebee Honey BBQ Chicken Burger, $9.99
When I met my friend again at 3pm, she suggested to have a late lunch at Applebee. I suspect she was influenced by our other traveling companions, who couldn't stop talking about Applebee, but I actually preferred Burger King, as I was still trying to finish my own agenda and wanted a quick lunch. The service at Applebee was good, but very slow. I couldn't remember what she ordered, but we found the portion rather big (catering to American portion remember?), and she couldn't take the fries as she's still struggling with sore throat. I took out the fries, from both plates, and decided to wrap up my burger for later consumption. It was another big mistake (which I failed to learn). We finished our lunch at 4pm, and I was still trying to find something for Sinead. Eventually, I managed to finish and got back to the bus stop by 5.10pm. My friend intended to shop a while longer. The bus scheduled for 5.20pm came 20 minutes late, and the sky began drizzling. I somehow managed to squeeze onto the bus with last 7 seats available, and slept all the way to New York City, reaching PAT at 7.15pm. I suppose if I came any later, I might be late for the musical afterward.
Upon reaching PAT, I finished up the burger there before leaving for Majestic Theater, and only managed to find my way there at 7.55pm, five minutes before the show suppose to begin. However, maybe I was too filled, I felt sleepy again, and slept through most of the musical, woke up occasionally to catch the catchy songs. No wonder I had a bad feeling about buying the ticket, but at least I have seen it. Peter Jöback, the phantom, was superb in my opinion. I thought I found his vocal a little eerie, less powerful than other established phantoms, but he was more lively, and for a phantom, eeriness would be a plus! LOL!
Peter Jöback is the right most 'phantom'. Apart from the legendary Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman, who were the founding cast, I prefer Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess. Anthony Warlow, John Owen-Jones and Colm Wilkinson in the video, were the Australia, London, and Canada phantom respectively, Ramin Karimloo & Sierra Boggess were once the London cast. Peter Jöback is the current Broadway phantom until end August. And for this video, I had view over and over again many times over! It is believe that, the role of Christine was written with Sarah Brightman in mind, who would later on became Sir Andrew Lloyd-Webber's (ex-)wife. Fascinating life huh? LOL!
And this would feature Sierra with (from left) John Owen-Jones, Hugh Panaro (in mask), Ramin Karimloo, and Peter Jöback, basically the new generations.
The show would be over at 10.30pm. I walked to Time Square subway for train Q back to Brooklyn's Atlantic Av, transferring line R back to Union St. I learned that my friend was caught in the mild rain back in Woodbury, and she actually came out about 10 minutes after I left. Slept late.
Day 6: 08 Aug 2013, Thu (EST/GMT -4) New York
A painting on Empire State Building inside Room 405
It would be our last day of the trip. We woke up early at 6.45am, and within an hour, we had repacked and checked out of hotel, leaving the bulk of our luggage with them.
Graffiti on the wall of Brooklyn Tile Supply
Degraw St
Sackett St
Tiny library along 4th Av, Brooklyn
On our way to Station Restaurant, I took some artistic paintings on buildings and graffiti, I even found a tiny library along the main road. Brooklyn really fascinates me, many of these arts are disappearing in New York City as part of the cleaning up efforts. Naturally, the thin line between art and vandalism is an ongoing argument, but so long as it's not offensive, it certainly helps improve vibrancy.
As for the Little Free Library, I'm not sure whether there's any government involvement in this, but I applause the effort to share, never mind 9 out of ten, you'd probably not like the books inside :P
Station Restaurant
I finally managed to take a good picture of the restaurant interior, albeit just one corner of it. The inner part was a bit too dim for my compact camera. Looks like it can be quite happening at night. The owner of the restaurant collected my hotel slip, and our breakfast was promptly served.
My muffin breakfast, which also came with french toast (not inside picture)
I decided to have a change by ordering their muffin breakfast. Gosh, their muffin were large, came with butter and grape jam too, along with the french toast, and it was nice really.
My friend had the egg omelette with sausage & potatoes
After breakfast, it was still too early for Tiffany & Co., we first went to Flatiron Building.
Flatiron Building
Flatiron Building is perhaps the 3rd most popular building in New York, right after Empire State Building and Chrysler Building. Its original name was Fuller Building, but was nicknamed 'flatiron' because of its resemblance to a cast-iron clothes iron. Talking about the devil, Empire State Building can be easily seen there from a distance.
It was close to 10am after we were done with this. My friend was eagered to collect her Tiffany chain she sent in to hook up the pendant she purchased a couple of days ago, so I brought her to Tiffany at 5th Ave, and we decided to pursue separate itinerary and meet again at 3pm at Century 21.
Horse-drawn carriage along Museum Mile
After I passed my friend the metro map, I lost my way a little finding the subway station, before boarding a train for Grand Central Station, and from there, transfer bus M42 to UN Building. I notice many buses (but not all) in Manhattan had their service number tagged with the route they are traversing, such as M42, running along 42 St cross town.
Chrysler Building from Grand Central
By now, I have a pretty good grasp about Manhattan's bus system, basically, 5th Ave bisect Manhattan's streets into East and West, and where metro system primarily runs up and downtown. Crossing town (between East and West), sometime buses are more convenient, especially for uptown and crossing Central Park, buses eliminate the need to transfer train midtown and save valuable time. Each trip on the bus cost $2.50, same as metro, that's why carrying an unlimited metro card is a good idea, and of course, grab a bus map.
Generally, passengers just slot their metro card into the card reader cum coin box, but on some occasion, if you see the folowing ticketing machine at the bus stop, that means tickets have to be purchased there prior to boarding. Yes, for unlimited metro card holder, simply swipe your metro card, and a bus ticket would be printed for free.
Ticketing machine on E 34 St.
Bus M42 for UN Building came punctually at 10.20am. This is a busy road, I suppose the frequency is high. And within 10 minutes, I reached the edge of UN Building. United Nations compound was hugh, I couldn't quite remember the exact location I visited the previous time round, I was trying to find the twisted revolver sculpture, but couldn't see it from outside.
I could only see this sculpture inside UN Building Visitors Center
The security outside UN Building was apparently higher than my last visit. I didn't want to pay $16 for admission, so I only planned to have a look from outside, and re-visit the twisted revolver sculpture. But strange, UN seems to be closed for the days, and the flags of multi-nations were taken down. I spoke to a lady police officer on site, she knew neither of these. It was later that I learned, UN Building was closed on that day because of Eid al-Fitr, the end of Muslim Ramadan.
I didn't want to back track to E 42 St for the bus back, too much walk. I took a slow stroll to 2 Av, before E 46 St, and boarded bus M15 for E 34 St at 10.50am.
My next destination was Empire State Building, it would be a long walk from where M15 dropped me, I would have to transfer bus M34 cross town along E 34 St.
I reached Empire State Building around 11.35am. No, I didn't pay for admission ticket. If I were to pay for it, I'd want to visit it during nightfall, just so I can appreciate the skyline around in different setting. I was happy for a while when I was informed that our half day tour would include a visit, but was really disappointed when they skipped it.
Somehow, in New York, Empire State Building has a very high regard in my mind. Even though it was no longer the tallest building in Manhattan ever since the completion of World Trade Center. I remember those King Kong movies having it in the background, as well as in Sleepless in Seattle, Empire State Building's significance in movies is simply paramount.
Macy's
Next stop, Macy's. Probably the largest departmental store in America, if not the world, Macy's has a long heritage. I was not interested in the things they sell, but I was pretty impressed by the wooden escalators inside. Nevertheless, I still spent a good 45 minutes inside, window shopping.
Pennsylvania Station
I don't know whether New York can count itself privileged to have two train stations in Grand Central and Pennsylvania. The disadvantage, of course, is a little confusion over which station to choose, but chances are, Penn Station is the one. Penn Station basically serves Amtrak, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), and New Jersey Transit trains. On appearance, Penn Station probably pales against Grand Central, but in terms of passengers volume, Penn Station is the busiest in USA. Right here, let me emphasize, that from Manhattan getting to JFK or vice versa, the fastest way is by taking LIRR train ($9.50 peak hour) to Jamaica station and transfer to AirTrain ($5), probably a little more than half an hour, the entire trip is under shelter and provides easy access for luggage trolley. And of course, if you don't carry that much luggage, E train is more economical, if not congested, to Sutphin Blvd in Jamaica, but do buffer at least another 20-30 minutes more.
Madison Square Garden
Behind Penn Station, Madison Square Garden is just around the corner. Contrary to its name, it is not a garden. It's the home ground for New York Knicks! I reached there at 1.05pm, and found the ground undergoing renovation. Pity, else I would have visited the home ground of 2 NBA teams in this visit (Brooklyn Nets in Barclay Center).
After that, I took line 1 back to W Hotel Downtown, trying to see if my pre-ordered SIM card had arrived. I was disappointed to find nothing. By 1.40pm, I was already at Century 21, sourcing for T-shirts for my friends back home, got quite a good bargain for 2 DKNY T-shirts!
Found my traveling companion at 2.50pm, I read somewhere that there might be subway issue, but not sure whether that was related only to R line, so we decided to take an earlier subway to Brooklyn, and had an early dinner there. We boarded subway A for Jay St - MetroTech, wanted to head for The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, but it was raining and as we did not carry umbrella, we changed our mind and boarded line R to Union St. We noted Station Restaurant put up a sign of having award-winning beef burger during our previous visit, and my friend was apparently interested.
Chicken Cutlet in Wrap, $6.95
We reached Station Restaurant at 3.50pm. My friend ordered the beef burger, but she didn't find it extraordinary. I ordered their chicken cutlet, given the option to choose between burger or wrap, and settled for the later. Didn't want to get too full, as I expect dinner after boarding flight around 8.30pm.
By 4.35pm, we had already finished our meals, and got back to Union Hotel. We collected our deposit luggage, and repacked.
At 5pm, we left Union Hotel for line R to Atlantic Av, transferring LIRR to Jamaica station ($9.50, peak hour). We boarded the 5.19pm LIRR, it took less than 20 minutes to reach Jamaica. I wanted to take pictures there, but got too busy. Anyway, just turn right after getting out from the LIRR station, and you'll find the LIRR station just in front.
We dug out our Metro card, top up $5 for the AirTrain fee, and we were good to go! I didn't have enough $1 note, so I inserted a $10 note, surprisingly, the changes were given in $1 coins! Still managed to find these during my last visit, but this was the first time I was seeing $1 coin this time round.
JFK T4, SQ25
We boarded AirTrain at 5.50pm, and reached JFK Terminal 4 at 6.10pm. I needed to get to the toilet at ground floor of T4, before eventually checked-in at 6.25pm. The queue for security screening was long, but somehow, we cleared it within 20 minutes, and had some time watching video on our iPad before our flight at 8.50pm. However, due to the traffic at the runways, our flight took off an hour later.
On our return flight, SIA's meals still never fail to appease!
Appetiser: Penne pasta with shrimp and vegetable salad, Dinner: Braised fish in Oriental black bean sauce, chinese vegetable and steamed rice
Appetiser: Samoked salmon with potato salad, Lunch: Stir fried chicken i ginger-soya sauce with Chinese vegetables and egg noodles
Fried noodles with Chinese roast pork and egg
Bye bye New York! When will I see you again? ~ ^.^ ~
I hope this post helps your planning in visiting New York, but please do not reproduce any of my work for commercial purpose.
As my traveling mate and I were still far from hungry, we first went to a Starbuck in the next building to get some small change, and trying to access internet. The waitress showed us a disgruntled face when we each presented a US$100 note! LOL! But we couldn't find any free wifi anyway. Then, we left for Century 21, trying to benchmark some bargains prior to our visit to Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets. Truly, as my New York friend revealed, the prices are indeed excellent, and what's more, there would be no taxes (8.5% otherwise) for clothing below US$110 (per item).
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When we proceeded to the entrance of Pera Soho, a dark Mercedes mini bus was already waiting for us. I thought we would still be taking the stretched limousine, but no. I guess this mini bus was from the tour agent, along with a driver, and a tour guide by the name of Bryan (or was it Brian?). After a short introduction, we joined him (as well as the two lady photographers) for the half day tour..JPG)
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I guess this lady doesn't need further introduction? The work of French designer Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, Statue of Liberty was meant as a gift to the American people as a symbol of freedom and democracy in 1886. I don't want to touch on details, but if the statue is gifted to United States today, I'm pretty sure her right hand will be holding a big apple and her left, an iPad displaying the Declaration of Independence!
Staten Island is a place very non-New York liked, with a small town atmosphere and unassuming appearance. In fact, for St George theater, there was only two small placard telling me it's a theater.
We were first served bread, which we never ordered, then came this dish. I couldn't remember the name for it, it was kinda Italian which comprised chicken breast meat, a large mushroom, and salad. My friend told me Americans prefer chicken breast meat, hence. But for Chinese, we prefer something else. Quite true!
The next dish was calamari rings, again, couldn't remember its exact name. But this was awesome, firstly, the accompanied sauce was a little spicy and sweet, but most importantly, the calamari rings had none of that rubbery chew. I wondered whether it was the mastery of the chef or that simply because of the different ocean these calamari came from.
Upon arrival, Anna distributed the concert tickets. She added that these were the most expensive tickets on sale, any categories closer were all reserved by Beyoncé's or her staff's associates. She was also kind enough to hide my camera in her bag to sneak pass security screening. The queue took about 20 minutes to clear screening, it was still early, my friend and I decided to walk around the stadium shops. On concert day, they mostly sell concert related memorabilia or food.
Beyoncé was powerful on stage, she really brought the crowd to ecstasy! Almost the entire stadium stood throughout her performance, except the four of us (me, my friend, and the other couple). Anna was very nice to follow suit. A pity I couldn't really appreciate her songs, and I can tell, the other couple too! We were in New York mainly for SHOPPING! :P
As expected, the traffic flow outside the stadium was chaotic but dispersing in a disciplined manner. Our chauffeur took awhile to reach us, by the time we reached hotel, it was the next day morning 12.35am.
It was very heavy, we found an automatic umbrella inside, along with two nicely wrapped presents. My friend unwrapped hers immediately, the smaller present was a Beyoncé CD, the larger and very heavy gift was Beyoncé coffee table book. Ah.. and I was pondering getting some souvenir over the concert merchandise kiosk, like a cap or something. Good thing I didn't. :P
Before 10am, we were already inside the memorial. What we were immediately met with, are two giant pools. These were where the original towers used to stand, and victims' names are inscribed in bronze parapets around the pools..JPG)
There is also a museum in the Ground Zero site, it was not yet opened to public, but a peep inside revealed two steel tridents from the original facade of the North Tower. Like the survivor tree, they returned to the site in 2010, and it showcased the severity of the attack, so violent that even such strong steel gave way, part of them melted.
Just a stone throw away up the road, we found Gray's Papaya, the reason we came here for. They are not selling papaya by the way, though they do serve some papaya drink among others. They are operating round the clock, and ever since they made it big, many other papaya-named restaurants soon followed suit, again, has nothing to do with papaya really. My friend got their signature hotdog and a papaya drink, and I got myself another plain cheese pizza... for 99 cents too, as well as a Pina Colada, a drink comprising coconut & pineapple, think and nice! As for the pizza, tasted similar to the one we just tried.
After Guggenheim Museum, I decided against taking the metro, because it was quite a few blocks away. So I took bus M1 around 4.23pm along Museum Miles towards midtown to here.. any idea?? It was a short stretch, but the traffic condition was not smooth even on a weekday afternoon and took me a good 15 minutes for what I reckoned probably need less than 5 without cars on the road.
Well, maybe this picture will tell better!
I attempted to combine a little Manhattan, a little Brooklyn Heights Promenade, with Brooklyn Bridge in the middle, trying to project the prominence of Brooklyn Heights for capturing the best of Manhattan downtown skyline, but perhaps better in the following picture:
When the famous Brooklyn Bridge was built in 1883, it was the world's longest suspension bridge and the first steel-wire suspension bridge. After 130 years and many monsters and terrorists destruction (in the movies, that is), it still stands proudly being one of the most prominent bridges in America.
They have a wide range of breakfast available, as I wanted to have a full breakfast so that I could spent more time shopping in Woodbury Common, I ordered egg omelette with bacon & potatoes. But I didn't expect they also gave me the French toast :D
My friend had their pancakes, it came with assortment of fruits and of course, maple syrup (or was it butter? I can't remember). I was thinking, luckily I didn't order the pancakes, I don't usually take fruit, particularly banana & apple.
Frankly speaking, I didn't find many genuine bargain that were good enough to make me splurge, I wanted to buy a jean, as I just learned before the trip, that I almost ran out on a pair of presentable jeans. Throughout the day, I eventually found a pair of cK jeans at $19! Apart from that, I got a little token for Sinead, whom I was still grateful for getting me on an SQ flight, saved me hours in transit!
The security outside UN Building was apparently higher than my last visit. I didn't want to pay $16 for admission, so I only planned to have a look from outside, and re-visit the twisted revolver sculpture. But strange, UN seems to be closed for the days, and the flags of multi-nations were taken down. I spoke to a lady police officer on site, she knew neither of these. It was later that I learned, UN Building was closed on that day because of Eid al-Fitr, the end of Muslim Ramadan.
I reached Empire State Building around 11.35am. No, I didn't pay for admission ticket. If I were to pay for it, I'd want to visit it during nightfall, just so I can appreciate the skyline around in different setting. I was happy for a while when I was informed that our half day tour would include a visit, but was really disappointed when they skipped it.
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