5th September, 2019
Our eagerly anticipated trip to Canada and New York began on this day!
Our eagerly anticipated trip to Canada and New York began on this day!
6th September, 2019
After having made the effort to go out last night to come to terms with the time difference (8 hours) sooner rather than later, we found ourselves walking much further and on a different route from that which we originally planned! We actually found ourselves in some sort of fiesta which was not quite the peace and quiet for which we were looking!
Undaunted, we were out early this morning (still having some adjustment to do!) to explore an area near to the old port. The fact that my first two photos were of a wheel (albeit the Canada's largest observation wheel!) maybe gives an idea of my struggle to find much which piqued my interest. The place had a run down air about it. Still, we completed another 16,000 steps.
Apart from hearing mostly French everywhere, there really doesn't seem much to distinguish this city from others, we could be anywhere!
7th/8th September, 2019
We'd decided to take a few days to travel towards Toronto using Megabus. It was an excellent way to travel, not only were buses on time, they were comfortable and had working wifi! The journey took just over 3 hours from Montreal to our next destination at Kingston.
Although this place was a definite step up from Montreal, our perception was somewhat coloured by the taxi driver who ripped us off for $5 Canadian!
We went to explore the old area of the town after settling in at our hotel. Again however, I was left with a feeling that I could've been anywhere. I still wasn't "feeling" Canada!
The next day we ventured out to see what we could find to do. There was the offer of a boat trip on the Island Belle around the islands which we decided to join.
I remember being horrified when one of these Mississippi River Boats appeared on The Norfolk Broads where I used to work. We were on the so called 1,000 island trip. We were aboard for 3 (long!) hours and and by no means did we see 1,000 islands! It was an experience which lived up to my expectations!
When we came ashore again, we found ourselves in the middle of yet another fiesta. This time it was an arts festival which seemed to revolve around food from different cultures. Whilst a stall providing Indian food might have been a temptation, the queue was too long to stand patiently in line for a share! There was a great drumming band which drew attention as we walked through. The participants were encouraging youngsters to join in and have a go and everyone was full of enthusiasm and joy. It was great to watch.
We'd decided to take a few days to travel towards Toronto using Megabus. It was an excellent way to travel, not only were buses on time, they were comfortable and had working wifi! The journey took just over 3 hours from Montreal to our next destination at Kingston.
Although this place was a definite step up from Montreal, our perception was somewhat coloured by the taxi driver who ripped us off for $5 Canadian!
We went to explore the old area of the town after settling in at our hotel. Again however, I was left with a feeling that I could've been anywhere. I still wasn't "feeling" Canada!
The next day we ventured out to see what we could find to do. There was the offer of a boat trip on the Island Belle around the islands which we decided to join.
I remember being horrified when one of these Mississippi River Boats appeared on The Norfolk Broads where I used to work. We were on the so called 1,000 island trip. We were aboard for 3 (long!) hours and and by no means did we see 1,000 islands! It was an experience which lived up to my expectations!
When we came ashore again, we found ourselves in the middle of yet another fiesta. This time it was an arts festival which seemed to revolve around food from different cultures. Whilst a stall providing Indian food might have been a temptation, the queue was too long to stand patiently in line for a share! There was a great drumming band which drew attention as we walked through. The participants were encouraging youngsters to join in and have a go and everyone was full of enthusiasm and joy. It was great to watch.
9th September, 2019
Leaving Kingston behind we headed towards Toronton, once again on a Megabus. Another 3 hour journey saw us arrive in the city where we had a few hours to while away before catching a train to our destination for the next few days, Stratford. We were able to locate the CNN Tower in Toronto, which we hoped to go up later on in the week when we returned for a few days.
Leaving Kingston behind we headed towards Toronton, once again on a Megabus. Another 3 hour journey saw us arrive in the city where we had a few hours to while away before catching a train to our destination for the next few days, Stratford. We were able to locate the CNN Tower in Toronto, which we hoped to go up later on in the week when we returned for a few days.
10th September, 2019
We wanted to take the first opportunity to explore Stratford as it would be home for a few days. Water always draws me and we saw plenty of birds and wildlife as we walked around the local Lake Victoria. The weather is remarkably warm too.
11/12th September, 2019
Off on the road again and this time with family to explore Lake Hurron. Another boat trip was planned. Our previous boat trip was to explore 1,000 islands, this time we were going bigger and apparently would be exploring 30,000 islands!
It turned out to be a glorious day and we also had our own tour guide as it's the former sailing grounds of our family members.
Staying overnight in the area we were able to explore further the next day and watch as boats came in and out of one of the locks.
Off on the road again and this time with family to explore Lake Hurron. Another boat trip was planned. Our previous boat trip was to explore 1,000 islands, this time we were going bigger and apparently would be exploring 30,000 islands!
It turned out to be a glorious day and we also had our own tour guide as it's the former sailing grounds of our family members.
Staying overnight in the area we were able to explore further the next day and watch as boats came in and out of one of the locks.
13th September, 2019
Hiring a car for a few days we headed towards Niagara Falls. Reaching our hotel without incident, albeit with an unscheduled diversion, we decided to explore once the car was parked.
We could feel the spray from the Falls even though we knew we had about a 10 min walk to reach them. The noise too guided us to where this spectacular was located.
The Falls are mesmerising and we moved slowly along just trying to appreciate their enormity. We also made a quick dash into a store to buy a couple of plastic macs as we were getting soaked by the spray.
Deciding not to bother with the boat trip which took people closer and into the spray, we headed instead into the mini CN Tower. At 296 feet high and with an outside lift, we thought it was good groundwork for our anticipated trip up the CN Tower itself in Toronto which is more than double the height.
We were both surprised how much we enjoyed it and will be going back tonight to eat in the revolving restaurant and enjoy the colourful scene as the Falls are lit up.
There were quite a few Amish people around. They stood out in the crowds with their distinctive dress and demeanour. There are Amish communities near to where we're staying in Stratford and I find it fascinating to see them close up as they go about their daily lives; so distinct in their culture.
And so arrived the time for our epic journey on high at night! Not as enjoyable as the day time trip however, as the queues were long entailing lengthy waits and a chance for the knees to start knocking. We shuffled into the lift when our turn came and I was just so happy that I am tall and could look over the heads of the smaller, asian people squeezed in with us!
Once up top, it was difficult getting out of some of the doors as the wind was so strong. I was able to get my camera resting on the criss-cross safety metal which helped with the shots. We didn't stay up top too long and coming down again were almost soaked as the wind blew heavy spray from the Falls, right over the Skylon! Quite an experience and as we walked back to our hotel, so the full moon showed itself.
Hiring a car for a few days we headed towards Niagara Falls. Reaching our hotel without incident, albeit with an unscheduled diversion, we decided to explore once the car was parked.
We could feel the spray from the Falls even though we knew we had about a 10 min walk to reach them. The noise too guided us to where this spectacular was located.
The Falls are mesmerising and we moved slowly along just trying to appreciate their enormity. We also made a quick dash into a store to buy a couple of plastic macs as we were getting soaked by the spray.
Deciding not to bother with the boat trip which took people closer and into the spray, we headed instead into the mini CN Tower. At 296 feet high and with an outside lift, we thought it was good groundwork for our anticipated trip up the CN Tower itself in Toronto which is more than double the height.
We were both surprised how much we enjoyed it and will be going back tonight to eat in the revolving restaurant and enjoy the colourful scene as the Falls are lit up.
There were quite a few Amish people around. They stood out in the crowds with their distinctive dress and demeanour. There are Amish communities near to where we're staying in Stratford and I find it fascinating to see them close up as they go about their daily lives; so distinct in their culture.
And so arrived the time for our epic journey on high at night! Not as enjoyable as the day time trip however, as the queues were long entailing lengthy waits and a chance for the knees to start knocking. We shuffled into the lift when our turn came and I was just so happy that I am tall and could look over the heads of the smaller, asian people squeezed in with us!
Once up top, it was difficult getting out of some of the doors as the wind was so strong. I was able to get my camera resting on the criss-cross safety metal which helped with the shots. We didn't stay up top too long and coming down again were almost soaked as the wind blew heavy spray from the Falls, right over the Skylon! Quite an experience and as we walked back to our hotel, so the full moon showed itself.
14th September, 2019
A final drive past the natural phenomenon that is Niagara Falls and leaving behind the human phenomenon that is readily forgetable, we travelled alongside Lake Ontario visiting Niagara on the Lake en route. We stopped off to admire the view of Toronto on the skyline and were impressed by the height of the CN Tower which we will be going up whilst here! As we were admiring the view, hundreds of birds flew passed; it seemed never ending and all in total silence!
Heading back out to find the motorway to Toronto, we passed some fruit stalls and I just had to stop to get some of the local produce. What a relief to have to choose between such a variety compared to the stodge which is usually the choice available when travelling.
As we entered the city and the CN Tower loomed ahead, we were convinced we could see the restaurant/observation deck coming slowly down the structure! It was a few minutes before order was restored and we agreed we'd been subjected to an illusion! Could've put a whole different perspective on our intention to go up tomorrow!
Now it's off to the big top and a performance of Cirque du Soliel's "Alegria".
A final drive past the natural phenomenon that is Niagara Falls and leaving behind the human phenomenon that is readily forgetable, we travelled alongside Lake Ontario visiting Niagara on the Lake en route. We stopped off to admire the view of Toronto on the skyline and were impressed by the height of the CN Tower which we will be going up whilst here! As we were admiring the view, hundreds of birds flew passed; it seemed never ending and all in total silence!
Heading back out to find the motorway to Toronto, we passed some fruit stalls and I just had to stop to get some of the local produce. What a relief to have to choose between such a variety compared to the stodge which is usually the choice available when travelling.
As we entered the city and the CN Tower loomed ahead, we were convinced we could see the restaurant/observation deck coming slowly down the structure! It was a few minutes before order was restored and we agreed we'd been subjected to an illusion! Could've put a whole different perspective on our intention to go up tomorrow!
Now it's off to the big top and a performance of Cirque du Soliel's "Alegria".
15th/16th September, 2019
A memorable night! Walking from our hotel to the venue for Cirque du Soliel's performance of "Alegria" we were able to view Lake Ontario from the other side. Somehow we managed to unintentionally side step security(!) and were able to wander around the complex until the big top itself opened.
The atmosphere inside was palpable as we waited for it all to begin. It was as brilliant as I remembered and although there were a few changes to some individual aspects, the show itself was simply awesome with outstanding performances; the theme of happiness emanated.
Walking out into the night, the dominance of the CN Tower was again in evidence and I just loved the way we were able to catch glimpses of it between buildings as we walked, especially as the moon appeared at the side.
Next stop, to the top!
We were positive and purchased tickets to go up to the skypod, however it turned out that it was a lift too far! We reached the main observatory after a 58 sec lift trip and had a wander around to recover; my legs had begun to turn to jelly on the way up! Having recovered sufficiently to explore, we came across the glass floor. I really tried to step right on to it, however failed miserably. I was able to sit down and slide on (stupid isn't it!) and was so chuffed when I was able to stand up and walk off. I was told to be sure not to press the silver button on the wall as I steadied myself. The thought did cross my mind that maybe the floor would open if I did! The sequence of photos taken illustrate the stages I wnt through in overcoming my fear!
Having achieved two monumental objectives, we sat down to discuss the next stage up to the skypod. Inititally we both said, enough for one day, then rationalised that as we'd paid for the ticket, we should at least go!
The mistake was to let a large group go through to the lift and wait for the next one. As we waited, I started asking questions. The next lift would take about the same time to get to the top as the first stage, it was totally enclosed and the area was on two levels. My limit had been reached and I bottled it! Conquering fears can't all be done in a day.
A memorable night! Walking from our hotel to the venue for Cirque du Soliel's performance of "Alegria" we were able to view Lake Ontario from the other side. Somehow we managed to unintentionally side step security(!) and were able to wander around the complex until the big top itself opened.
The atmosphere inside was palpable as we waited for it all to begin. It was as brilliant as I remembered and although there were a few changes to some individual aspects, the show itself was simply awesome with outstanding performances; the theme of happiness emanated.
Walking out into the night, the dominance of the CN Tower was again in evidence and I just loved the way we were able to catch glimpses of it between buildings as we walked, especially as the moon appeared at the side.
Next stop, to the top!
We were positive and purchased tickets to go up to the skypod, however it turned out that it was a lift too far! We reached the main observatory after a 58 sec lift trip and had a wander around to recover; my legs had begun to turn to jelly on the way up! Having recovered sufficiently to explore, we came across the glass floor. I really tried to step right on to it, however failed miserably. I was able to sit down and slide on (stupid isn't it!) and was so chuffed when I was able to stand up and walk off. I was told to be sure not to press the silver button on the wall as I steadied myself. The thought did cross my mind that maybe the floor would open if I did! The sequence of photos taken illustrate the stages I wnt through in overcoming my fear!
Having achieved two monumental objectives, we sat down to discuss the next stage up to the skypod. Inititally we both said, enough for one day, then rationalised that as we'd paid for the ticket, we should at least go!
The mistake was to let a large group go through to the lift and wait for the next one. As we waited, I started asking questions. The next lift would take about the same time to get to the top as the first stage, it was totally enclosed and the area was on two levels. My limit had been reached and I bottled it! Conquering fears can't all be done in a day.
16th September, 2019
Bidding Toronto farewell, we headed back towards Stratford and a welcome return to nature and a long walk in the woods. It was a bit of an adventure as we really didn't know to where the path we took would eventually lead. Undaunted we navigated successfully for nearly three hours. We also gave one lady a chuckle when we asked how we could get out of the huge cemetery in which we'd found ourselves lost. She wondered how long we'd be trying to get out.
Of course, after such a long walk, sustenance was required when we reached civilisation again; at least we felt we could justify the indulgence of cream, coffee, cake and scone, well, almost!
Bidding Toronto farewell, we headed back towards Stratford and a welcome return to nature and a long walk in the woods. It was a bit of an adventure as we really didn't know to where the path we took would eventually lead. Undaunted we navigated successfully for nearly three hours. We also gave one lady a chuckle when we asked how we could get out of the huge cemetery in which we'd found ourselves lost. She wondered how long we'd be trying to get out.
Of course, after such a long walk, sustenance was required when we reached civilisation again; at least we felt we could justify the indulgence of cream, coffee, cake and scone, well, almost!
17th September, 2019
Today we paid a visit to Goderich, a lovely town on the banks of Lake Huron and a chance to complete a boardwalk. The water was an incredible turquoise colour which probably had much to do with the salt mining which takes place under the lake and extends out some 3 miles. There were plenty of creatures out and about, some I was able to photograph because they stayed still long enough!
We then stepped back in time when reaching Lucan. The town has become known in recent years through the story of the Donnelly Family; the story has become a Canadian legend. Emigrants from Ireland in the 1870's, they became notorious for their violent ways and were eventually massacred. Ironically, the desire of the townfolk to rid themselves of the Donnellys and their name, has resulted in the town being famous today, because of that action. We visited the museum which was enlightening. I'm still not convinced all of the family were all bad, or indeed that they were as bad as they were made out to be. Once a reputation is gained however, it's difficult to shake. There's no doubt that the violent end to some members of the family is difficult to condone.
Today we paid a visit to Goderich, a lovely town on the banks of Lake Huron and a chance to complete a boardwalk. The water was an incredible turquoise colour which probably had much to do with the salt mining which takes place under the lake and extends out some 3 miles. There were plenty of creatures out and about, some I was able to photograph because they stayed still long enough!
We then stepped back in time when reaching Lucan. The town has become known in recent years through the story of the Donnelly Family; the story has become a Canadian legend. Emigrants from Ireland in the 1870's, they became notorious for their violent ways and were eventually massacred. Ironically, the desire of the townfolk to rid themselves of the Donnellys and their name, has resulted in the town being famous today, because of that action. We visited the museum which was enlightening. I'm still not convinced all of the family were all bad, or indeed that they were as bad as they were made out to be. Once a reputation is gained however, it's difficult to shake. There's no doubt that the violent end to some members of the family is difficult to condone.
18th September, 2019
A beautiful morning walk around the lake followed by a visit to the Alley Cat Cafe.
I spent a deal of time trying to capture photos of Canada geese taking off and landing on the lake with little success. They would always be somewhere I just couldn't get a clear shot. Their calls also seemed to mock me as I moved on! On the way back an official in a canoe appeared to be trying to move the birds on and it at least gave me the opportunity of recording the splashes at take off!
The Alley Cat Cafe in Stratford centre is a place with a difference. Part of the premises has been converted into an area for cats. Visitors to the cafe may visit and interact with the animals. Some of the cats are permanent residents, others are up for adoption. Monies raised from drinks and food in the cafe as well as a small charge to enter the cat area, help to offset costs of caring, neutering and finding homes for the cats. I thought it was a brilliant idea and the cats area in the window display attracted a great deal of attention.
A beautiful morning walk around the lake followed by a visit to the Alley Cat Cafe.
I spent a deal of time trying to capture photos of Canada geese taking off and landing on the lake with little success. They would always be somewhere I just couldn't get a clear shot. Their calls also seemed to mock me as I moved on! On the way back an official in a canoe appeared to be trying to move the birds on and it at least gave me the opportunity of recording the splashes at take off!
The Alley Cat Cafe in Stratford centre is a place with a difference. Part of the premises has been converted into an area for cats. Visitors to the cafe may visit and interact with the animals. Some of the cats are permanent residents, others are up for adoption. Monies raised from drinks and food in the cafe as well as a small charge to enter the cat area, help to offset costs of caring, neutering and finding homes for the cats. I thought it was a brilliant idea and the cats area in the window display attracted a great deal of attention.
19th September, 2019
It was time to take our leave from Canada and head for the Big Apple. Lift off from Toronto presented me with the perfect perspective to capture the city in all its glory. We had decided to leave via a smaller airport rather than the large international airport. After a couple of hours train journey from Stratford, we again reached Toronto. A courtesy vehicle to the Billy Bishop Airport and we were really able to enjoy an airport rather than endure it, until take off time. Plenty of space, seats and views made the normally stressed occasion such a pleasure. Goodbye Canada and a truly memorable 2 weeks spent discovering the delights on offer. Thank you!
In little under 1½ hours the New York skyline came into view and we prepared ourselves to enter via the American immigration system.
Our welcome to the USA was as expected; a long wait to pass through arrivals and all the beaurocratic requirements. A 1½ hour wait was 1 hour less than my previous visit, so perhaps I should be grateful!. In Canada it was all automated as paperwork had been filled out and sanctioned beforehand. Not so in America; archaic is an apt description.
The next hurdle to overcome was the telecommunications system. Dominated by a giant, we soon found that certain means of communications are blocked. Life is cetainly not made easy for visitors.
It was time to take our leave from Canada and head for the Big Apple. Lift off from Toronto presented me with the perfect perspective to capture the city in all its glory. We had decided to leave via a smaller airport rather than the large international airport. After a couple of hours train journey from Stratford, we again reached Toronto. A courtesy vehicle to the Billy Bishop Airport and we were really able to enjoy an airport rather than endure it, until take off time. Plenty of space, seats and views made the normally stressed occasion such a pleasure. Goodbye Canada and a truly memorable 2 weeks spent discovering the delights on offer. Thank you!
In little under 1½ hours the New York skyline came into view and we prepared ourselves to enter via the American immigration system.
Our welcome to the USA was as expected; a long wait to pass through arrivals and all the beaurocratic requirements. A 1½ hour wait was 1 hour less than my previous visit, so perhaps I should be grateful!. In Canada it was all automated as paperwork had been filled out and sanctioned beforehand. Not so in America; archaic is an apt description.
The next hurdle to overcome was the telecommunications system. Dominated by a giant, we soon found that certain means of communications are blocked. Life is cetainly not made easy for visitors.
20th September, 2019
The first part of our day was spent catching up with Tibetan friends and family. I'd last managed a catch up four years previously . Prior to this first visit to New Jersey, I had always been to stay with them in various settlements throughout India.
Chokey wanted to prepare lunch for us whilst Sonam took us on a tour to see the panoramic views of New Jersey. We also looked across to Manhattan. It was a beautiful day which continued into the evening as we were invited for a Tibetan evening with another Tibetan family together with Sonam and Chokey.
It was a truly memorable day spent with special people. The house to which we were invited is magnificent and a wonderful representation of all things Tibetan. All of the woodwork was hand made by a Tibetan master carpenter; the detail is incredible. There was so much laughter, joy and food shared. Our time together will stay long with us. You have a special place in my heart. Thank you my Tibetan family and friends.
The first part of our day was spent catching up with Tibetan friends and family. I'd last managed a catch up four years previously . Prior to this first visit to New Jersey, I had always been to stay with them in various settlements throughout India.
Chokey wanted to prepare lunch for us whilst Sonam took us on a tour to see the panoramic views of New Jersey. We also looked across to Manhattan. It was a beautiful day which continued into the evening as we were invited for a Tibetan evening with another Tibetan family together with Sonam and Chokey.
It was a truly memorable day spent with special people. The house to which we were invited is magnificent and a wonderful representation of all things Tibetan. All of the woodwork was hand made by a Tibetan master carpenter; the detail is incredible. There was so much laughter, joy and food shared. Our time together will stay long with us. You have a special place in my heart. Thank you my Tibetan family and friends.
21st September, 2019
Three days making wonderful memories to share again in the future. Meals with our Tibetan family, invite to Tibetan celebrations, picnic at a Tibetan Temple and a visit to a museum teaching us more about the Tibetan culture.
Throughout it all we have been fed and fêted. We have laughed and enjoyed reminiscing of our times together over 30 years! Here's to when we meet again Sonam. Tashi Delek.
Three days making wonderful memories to share again in the future. Meals with our Tibetan family, invite to Tibetan celebrations, picnic at a Tibetan Temple and a visit to a museum teaching us more about the Tibetan culture.
Throughout it all we have been fed and fêted. We have laughed and enjoyed reminiscing of our times together over 30 years! Here's to when we meet again Sonam. Tashi Delek.
22nd September, 2019
After the peace and tranquility of the previous few days in the USA, we threw ourselves headlong into the night life of New York City.
Wandering around whichever way our fancy took, we clocked up nearly 20,000 steps!
The city is dirty, noisy and brash. It is also full of people with loud voices and police and fire trucks continually in attendance! Yep, there's only one of us who is a city person! Nonetheless, there is a vibrancy about the place which I can live with for now.
On our way back to our hotel, we found ourselves stopped by police and barriers. Heads of State were in town for a few days for a meeting of the UN General Assembly. (Wherever we go, the crowd follows!) We had to wait as VIPs (!) were whisked to, wherever. Security was brutal and one bloke who somehow found himself cycling down the road, was forcibly thrown back behind the barriers complete with bike.
An interesting first night, that's for sure.
After the peace and tranquility of the previous few days in the USA, we threw ourselves headlong into the night life of New York City.
Wandering around whichever way our fancy took, we clocked up nearly 20,000 steps!
The city is dirty, noisy and brash. It is also full of people with loud voices and police and fire trucks continually in attendance! Yep, there's only one of us who is a city person! Nonetheless, there is a vibrancy about the place which I can live with for now.
On our way back to our hotel, we found ourselves stopped by police and barriers. Heads of State were in town for a few days for a meeting of the UN General Assembly. (Wherever we go, the crowd follows!) We had to wait as VIPs (!) were whisked to, wherever. Security was brutal and one bloke who somehow found himself cycling down the road, was forcibly thrown back behind the barriers complete with bike.
An interesting first night, that's for sure.
23rd September, 2019
We started early this morning, despite a late finish last night. It's not only New York which doesn't sleep! It paid dividends though because we seemed to be ahead of the crowds for much of the time, which meant we were able to do more.
First stop en route to Statton Island and the Statue of Liberty was Grand Central Station, a beautiful building. The experience on the subway here was much more enjoyable than the one earlier in the week and we quickly arrived at Battery Park.
Having booked tickets for the Crown experience on the Statue, we found we were whisked through and on to the ferry in double quick time.
We decided to go straight for the Crown experience, remembering our hesitation in the CN Tower which cost us our courage! We were quickly in and on our way up. After 215 steps we reached the Pedestal. We stopped briefly to catch our breath, then it was onwards and upwards another 139 steps in a narrowing circle; 354 in total and apparently the equivalent of 20 stories!
We could see why numbers are limited and to be honest, there wasn't really much to see from the top. Five small, dirty windows to gaze from with only a short time to stop.
We came down quicker than we went up and caught a ferry back to the mainland. It was then on to the WTC Museum. I went up to the Observatory 4 years ago and Chris was more interested in the Museum than views.
As we returned outside to find our way back to the subway, I noticed a building which I had seen being built 4 years ago when visiting with my brother. A Calatrava design, it was truly spectacular both inside and out. Unfortunately, it was difficult to get a good angle from which to show its beauty to the full.
A late night stroll to Maddison Square Gardens whilst visiting the entrance to the Empire State Building to ready ourselves to go up tomorrow, finished off another full and enjoyable day.
24th September, 2019
It seems that for us, 20,000+ steps is the norm for a day out in New York!
Today we again started early. The objective was to find The Vessel which opened in March of this year. I'd wanted to visit this spiral staircase structure which rises 16 stories and consists of 154 flights of stairs, 2,500 steps, and 80 landings, since I'd seen photos of it! It was impressive and the views out and inwards were memorable.
Not far from The Vessel was the start of the Hi-Line, an elevated walkway of about 1½ miles created from a defunct railway line. I first visited 4 years ago and enjoyed the relative quiet above the hussle and bussle of the roads below. At that time there were plenty of activities along the whole stretch and much to see and do. Today, the main activity was building work. Prices of land alongside the Hi-Line have obviously increased with the improvements and now there are numerous luxury blocks overlooking the park.
Walking back towards Times Square I enjoyed time people watching whilst Chris visited Macy's store. It was relaxing being able to be isolated, yet alongside and watching all the going-on.
We spotted the ball that drops down on New Year's Eve to denote the start of another year. It was already two thirds of the way down and presumably it would rise to the top again just before the strike of midnight.
After a few hours rest back at our hotel, we were again ready to head out as darkness fell. We were off up to the Observation Deck in the Empire State Building!
We were getting quite blasé about dealing with heights now! At 381m the Empire State Building isn't as tall as the CN Tower in Toronto. However, as we only reached the lookout level at 346m in Toronto, we were 39m higher in the USA than in Canada! Go us!
The views were spectacular and we secured a good place looking towards the WTC tower to watch the sun go down and the city lights come on.
Although there were quite a few people outside on the Observation Deck too, there was almost complete silence as we all watched the sun set. It was somewhat surreal and an amazing experience. As we finally made our way back down to ground level, we found we had the whole lift to ourselves! A pretty unique experience I'd guess given the number of people who visit.
It seems that for us, 20,000+ steps is the norm for a day out in New York!
Today we again started early. The objective was to find The Vessel which opened in March of this year. I'd wanted to visit this spiral staircase structure which rises 16 stories and consists of 154 flights of stairs, 2,500 steps, and 80 landings, since I'd seen photos of it! It was impressive and the views out and inwards were memorable.
Not far from The Vessel was the start of the Hi-Line, an elevated walkway of about 1½ miles created from a defunct railway line. I first visited 4 years ago and enjoyed the relative quiet above the hussle and bussle of the roads below. At that time there were plenty of activities along the whole stretch and much to see and do. Today, the main activity was building work. Prices of land alongside the Hi-Line have obviously increased with the improvements and now there are numerous luxury blocks overlooking the park.
Walking back towards Times Square I enjoyed time people watching whilst Chris visited Macy's store. It was relaxing being able to be isolated, yet alongside and watching all the going-on.
We spotted the ball that drops down on New Year's Eve to denote the start of another year. It was already two thirds of the way down and presumably it would rise to the top again just before the strike of midnight.
After a few hours rest back at our hotel, we were again ready to head out as darkness fell. We were off up to the Observation Deck in the Empire State Building!
We were getting quite blasé about dealing with heights now! At 381m the Empire State Building isn't as tall as the CN Tower in Toronto. However, as we only reached the lookout level at 346m in Toronto, we were 39m higher in the USA than in Canada! Go us!
The views were spectacular and we secured a good place looking towards the WTC tower to watch the sun go down and the city lights come on.
Although there were quite a few people outside on the Observation Deck too, there was almost complete silence as we all watched the sun set. It was somewhat surreal and an amazing experience. As we finally made our way back down to ground level, we found we had the whole lift to ourselves! A pretty unique experience I'd guess given the number of people who visit.
25th September, 2019
Our last day in New York and we decided to visit Central Park. It was a good day to find this green oasis in the middle of the metropolis although our feelings were that so much more was needed to provide oxygen to the 1½ million people who live/work in Manhattan.
It was a good job we had allowed plenty of time to make our way back to the hotel to collect luggage and then on to the airport, as we were again caught up in the chaos that the UN Congress meeting wreaked on the city. Streets closed, detours, grid locks for vehicles and pedestrians alike; utter chaos. Judging by the number of clean up trucks we saw, visiting delegates would've had the impression that New York is spotless!
The trip to JFK Airport in theory should've taken half an hour. Nearly two hours after leaving the hotel, we made it. Good job we negotiated a flat rate for the taxi beforehand!
Our flight to Madrid left late at night and we weren't too pleased to find that we'd been bumped out of our reserved seats for some reason. I almost managed to get an upgrade but sadly the flight was flight. We did get 2 seats together albeit it 20 rows further back than we'd reserved. To make matters worse we got bumped again on the Madrid to Malaga flight. By that time however, we just wanted to get home and didn't make a fuss. I did make a fuss after we arrived home however and managed to get a full refund of the extra costs of the seats we booked and didn't have.
Our last day in New York and we decided to visit Central Park. It was a good day to find this green oasis in the middle of the metropolis although our feelings were that so much more was needed to provide oxygen to the 1½ million people who live/work in Manhattan.
It was a good job we had allowed plenty of time to make our way back to the hotel to collect luggage and then on to the airport, as we were again caught up in the chaos that the UN Congress meeting wreaked on the city. Streets closed, detours, grid locks for vehicles and pedestrians alike; utter chaos. Judging by the number of clean up trucks we saw, visiting delegates would've had the impression that New York is spotless!
The trip to JFK Airport in theory should've taken half an hour. Nearly two hours after leaving the hotel, we made it. Good job we negotiated a flat rate for the taxi beforehand!
Our flight to Madrid left late at night and we weren't too pleased to find that we'd been bumped out of our reserved seats for some reason. I almost managed to get an upgrade but sadly the flight was flight. We did get 2 seats together albeit it 20 rows further back than we'd reserved. To make matters worse we got bumped again on the Madrid to Malaga flight. By that time however, we just wanted to get home and didn't make a fuss. I did make a fuss after we arrived home however and managed to get a full refund of the extra costs of the seats we booked and didn't have.