Spent a full week in New York City this last week with Joe, and what a wonderful experience! I've lived in Los Angeles nearly my entire life, so I felt quite prepared to flee since I have no real admiration for city life in general. We stayed in Midtown Manhattan, in the heart of the city, at the Pennsylvania Hotel. It was probably the best move since it was literally across the street from Penn Station, one of the largest transportation hubs in the city.
I was literally in awe of the character of the city. The people seemed to be the most individualistic I've ever come across, and the charm of the industrial age architecture and sculptures contrasting with modern skyscrapers made every corner a picturesque scene. I brought my sketchbook with me everywhere we went, but there was literally no time to sit and sketch! At least for me... I took lots of pictures instead... and drank in every bit.
We walked across the Williamsburg Bridge, ate at some of the most famous restaurants that our budget would allow, went to the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building, visited the Met and the Cloisters, walked through Grand Central Station, and took a train ride to New Haven to visit friends. We also perused some local stores at Williamsburg, the Natural History Museum, the famous FAO Schwartz, and passed through Times Square a few times. Our local friends thought us ambitious, and maybe a little crazy for trying to pack it all in, but it was definitely worth it. Especially when we walked through a light snow along 7th Ave - very romantic. I think we walked a total of 60 miles in one week... something we average in LA only every couple of months! lol! Here are some of what I captured of the city. I can't wait until I can go again.