Falling in Love with New York City in 5 Days

I think everyone has their own version of what New York City is or should be. All of us are expecting different things from it and each of us is getting treated in all the many different ways that New York has to offer. My New York was magical!

It's actually hard to describe what I felt when I finally met New York. It was a mix of feelings. I was excited. I was overwhelmed. I was intimidated. And I was a little bit sad, too, as suddenly New York was no longer a dream, it was right in front of me.

Content

Day 1: Arrival to The Park Lane Hotel, Shopping, Time Square.
Day 2: Empire State Building, Grand Central Terminal, A Walk through SoHo, Greenwich Village, Little Italy and Chinatown, 911 Memorial, Ferry to Staten Island
Day 3: East Side of Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum, Bethesda Fountain, Broadway Show
Day 4: The High Line in Chelsea, American Museum of Natural History, Jazz
Day 5: Museum of Modern Art, The rest of Central Park, New York Cheesecake

Day 1

Arrival to The Park Lane Hotel, Shopping, Time Square

While we were creeping through traffic, I was looking out the window enjoying skyscrapers and the people on the streets rushing somewhere, or maybe nowhere, looking for adventure, love or maybe the best New York cheesecake. I couldn't wait to be one of them but honestly wasn't quite ready to fully open my heart to this city, massive, bright, noisy and chaotic. Further, there was a wild whisper in the air like something or somebody was bewitching me. And suddenly I already knew I have fallen in love with New York even before my feet had a chance to touch the ground of the concrete jungles.

After returning our rental car, we took a taxi and headed towards our hotel (by the way, the only reason we arrived to Manhattan by car is because we were driving from Connecticut where we have already spent two most wonderful days celebrating our 5th anniversary).

Location is everything in Manhattan. When Robert was looking for a hotel for us, he was basically looking for location and views. He really wanted my first time in New York to be the most special. The Park Lane Hotel has that 'special' thanks both to its location on Central Park South (view!) and being just a half block from the famous 5th Avenue and many amazing restaurants (location!). We got a Central Park view room on the 10th floor. Whew! It would be a disaster to get something lower as I wanted to wake up to the most famous and luxurious view in Manhattan! And I did for the whole five days! The view was, indeed, unbelievably beautiful. However, even through the room was big, it was a little tired and room service was minimal. So basically we were paying just for the view, but, oh my, it was worth every penny. Trust me!

View from our room in The Park Lane Hotel

It's funny, when we were arriving at the hotel, the first thing I smelled was horse shit! Yep! And that smell was all around Central Park South because apparently the horse-drawn carriage rides through the park are one of the most picturesque and romantic ways to see New York's Central Park. I didn't try it so I have no idea if it's true or not, but, literally, there were dozens of horses around central park! Shocking! Surprisingly, I got used to that smell pretty quickly.

Our room wasn't ready yet, so we dropped our suitcases at the hotel and decided to explore 5th Avenue so we could get rid of my shopping hunger once and for all for the trip! When the first part of our budget was successfully spent on some fabulous clothing, we realized it's time to take care of a real hunger and find some food. Luckily, my attention was caught by a water wall tucked away in a small courtyard. It was beautiful and very strange. I even didn't realize at first - that there was a little cafe where we ended up eating our first meal in New York. Simple and tasty. I actually have noticed, New York has a lot of fountains and, I guess, that makes sense - water kills all other noisy sounds, and New York is full of sounds. After our little meal in a charming cafe with a waterfall, we, finally, went to Central Park. We didn't plan to explore the park in our first day so we just sat there on a green field, enjoying people, buildings, and very nice weather. Too nice actually. So nice that leaves hadn't really turned yet. Oh well... But this, I believe, was the only one real disappointment for me I had about New York.

In the evening I decided to see the Time Square. I though it would be silly to visit New York and not to see the Time Square. Robert wasn't happy with this idea, but he did understand my wish. When I see Time Square in the movies, it's so impressive, real image of New York. In reality, it's the worst part of Manhattan, in my opinion, crammed with tourists and awful neon and HD advertising everywhere, huge brand names, and weird people in weird costumes. It became very clear to me immediately, Time Square isn't the real New york even a bit. I don't know what it is or why it exists in this form. It's a hell where people for some strange reason get some pleasure in watching ads. I guess you could name this place as a mirror of our modern world - crowds of brainless people who are enjoying crap because everyone else does it, too. I didn't want to be even close to that "famous spot" so we took few pictures and ran away.

But wait a minute, I forgot to tell you that before my adventure in Time Square, we had amazing dinner in City Lobster. If you enjoy lobster, this is the place to try the real deal. We knew nothing about this restaurant. We just were passing by and decided to take a look at the menu located outside the door. We both were very hungry! The Moldavian Russian-speaking hostess saw our hungry and desperate faces and quickly grabbed us inside. Before we knew it, suddenly there was this enormously huge 'Angry Lobster.' Yes, exactly Angry - it'show they call it in the menu. I thought it's going to jump out of the plate into my face. I have never seen a lobster of that size before! It looked scary to me but it was very delicious! Very-very delicious! We enjoyed our cocktails, too.

That evening we went to bed early. We didn't have any particular plans for the next day but we knew we needed to wake up early to get to the top of the Empire Building before the crowds.

Day 2

Empire State Building, Grand Central Terminal, A Walk through SoHo, Greenwich Village, Little Italy and Chinatown, 911 Memorial, Ferry to Staten Island

Our second beautiful day in New York started with a little, but nevertheless annoying realization: we are going to have a very expensive hunger during our stay here. Good food in New York is very expensive. If you are expecting nice atmosphere, delicious cuisine and wine from the restaurants in Manhattan, you'd better be ready to spend some money. Our strategy was simple: share small meals for breakfasts and lunches, and then splurge on dinner in a nice restaurant.

That's why our early morning in New York we started with a simple split bagel with salmon. New York is famous for its bagels. There is something magical in the water in New York that gets them especially yummy. It was so good, I got afraid I wouldn't be able to eat Californian bagels for quite a while. Bagels in New York is one of the must-tries for sure!

By 7:30 am we were at the doors of the Empire State Building. There was one more couple waiting for 8 am - the time when we would be allowed to go on top of the world! What a feeling! Prior our trip to New York, Robert bought us online two New York CityPasses. It was a very smart decision by my man. We didn't do all the attractions provided in the pass, but still we saved some money and skipped some huge lines. I wanted to see New York from the roof of the Empire State Building twice: during the day and at night. Citypass allowed us to do that. We actually bought an additional express ticket for the night to avoid the longest line in New York!

There are no words to describe what I felt when finally I found myself on the top of the world. New York is so beautiful! All the skyscrapers suddenly looked small and fragile. I literally felt some strong power energy filling my veins and my mind was in a sudden realization of the narrow mindedness of people these days. And narrower their minds get, more comfortable they feel. There is no open sky to fly in the modern world anymore. We all go on asking for more safety and for more freedom. But both cannot exist together. And we give up our freedom for security and its walls around our already little lives. I took a deep breath. The morning light was magical and the cityscape was an invitation to fly.

It was very windy and cold out there so high on the roof but nothing could stop me to enjoy these magnificent views, not even my shorts. To go early was the best move as we avoided crowds. On our way down the line was already building up and I felt sorry for all these people.

After the Empire State building, we headed to Grand Central Terminal. This gorgeous historical train station is as beautiful as in the movies. Spectacular ceiling!

Somehow our second day in New York turned out to be the most busy one as I was eager to see as much as I could. So we also went for a walk through SoHo, Greenwich Village, Little Italy and Chinatown. The weather was perfectly sunny and warm. Little Italy has a nice street full of shops. Lots of great restaurants around to chill. We stopped for lunch at the Chinese restaurant, 456 Shanghai Cuisine. Really good food there, pleasant atmosphere, and not too expensive.

We couldn't ignore the 911 Memorial. They built two very beautiful waterfall pools within the building footprints where the Twin Towers once stood. I saw there a few people (relatives or friends) who were really trying to have a moment of peace. Although, I don't know how you possibly could have a quiet moment where tourists are taking smiley selfies. I would forbid the taking of such pictures at this place out of respect to those who actually lost someone in that terrible tragedy. Me personally, I didn't feel anything except the desire to protect the dignity of the space. Although, the way the water was running into a dark deep hall did pluck at the strings of my soul. Sad place.

Here is a little note from me to you: Staten Island Ferry is the best deal in New York. It's absolutely free! We took this ferry to Staten Island and came back on the next trip. The views of New York's skyline were outstanding. The boat passed right by the Statue of Liberty so I could get couple of great pictures of it as well. With all my love for water and wind in my hair, the ride was simply amazing!

We ended our day with the city lights on the roof of the Empire State Building (thanks to our express tickets we didn't wait even a second in the longest line of New York!) Later, we had a dinner at Rue 57 where we ordered Rue 57 Sushi Platter. Honestly, we were not impressed by this overpriced platter. Although, what we saw on the tables of others looked better.

Walking back to our hotel, we discussed the definite need to take it a little easier the next day. There is an expression, 'Man plans, God Laughs.' I'm pretty sure he was at least chuckling at our foolishness!

Day 3

East Side of Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum, Bethesda Fountain, Broadway Show

Another morning came and found us walking early along the east side of Central Park towards Madison Avenue. It felt like such a luxury to be walking along the quiet streets before the crowds. My morning's destination was a french bakery, home of the most famous and colorful macaroons, Ladurée. A little piece of Paris in New York! What can I say... Possibly the best macaroons I have ever and will ever have! And I've had plenty of macaroons before but these are truly special and delicious! My little mission was accomplished successfully! I bought three of my most favorite flavors: pistachio, coconut and lemon. To enjoy every little bite of my french happiness we went to Central Park. I needed a quiet little corner. Kerbs Boathouse looked like a perfect spot thanks to its beautiful location next to a small pond. This boathouse features a cafe with a variety of light snacks and beverages. They also were serving a simple hot breakfast we enjoyed very much. After all, you can't go wrong with eggs, toast, bacon and potatoes.

In my opinion, the main reason why New York City is named as one of the greatest cities in the world is the art. I can't think of New York without thinking of art or Broadway shows! Can you? Both are such huge parts of this city's lifestyle and energy. Ignoring this side of the city is a crime and disrespectful.

There is definitely plenty of art to see. It also worth mentioning, I am married to the best art guru. Robert knows so much about culture, art and artists. The Metropolitan Museum is one of his favorite museums and he couldn't wait to show me its Egyptian room and introduce me to some great art galleries. And, oh my, what a fascinating place for culture and beauty! So much to see! So much to learn! I was immediately lost in this space with no boundaries! I got so inspired! Half of the day disappeared with the speed of light as if we were in a different galaxy. We spent there almost 6 hours with a quick lunch break right outside of the museum. There were some 20-25 food trucks. Everything smelled fantastic but we went with pretty good hotdogs! Street food in New York is everywhere and part of its character!

After visiting The Metropolitan Museum, we decided to go back to the hotel for a short nap (through the Central Park, of course.) And, as it usually happens to us, completely accidentally we found ourselves next to the spectacular and iconic Bethesda Fountain. This charming spot was full of love and street music! I bet it's the best spot for a date. So romantic! We couldn't resist its relaxing atmosphere and stopped to enjoy the people and a couple of talented performers.

I will never forget this, the most special evening when I learned what a real Broadway show means and is. I've seen great musicals in San Francisco before, but now I know there is nothing like a great Broadway show in New York! I can't choose the words to describe this amazing experience. I think it's another crime to go to New York without any tickets to a Broadway show! Thanks god and my husband we did have the tickets. We had the tickets to the one of the hottest shows in New York, Cabaret, starring the sexy Alan Cumming and Michelle Williams! Oh my God! It was hot! Very hot! What made the whole deal even more spicy is that location for the show wasn't just a simple theater! The show was in a true club’s setting with that glitzy design of the house, the cabaret seating and drinks service. Yeah... we had the best seats, on the couches, drinking our cocktails and enjoying the best show in town! This was the truest part of New York for me! After the show I was dancing on the street. I was dancing and I couldn't stop dancing and singing the Cabaret songs!

Oh, and by the way, before the show we had a great Italian dinner in Bistro Milano located in Midtown Manhattan. It was so unbelievably tasty, we decided to go back there before our departure. Honestly, the most delicious pasta I have ever tried in my life. The whole staff was true real Italians and the majority of the guests were also Italians so it says a lot about the food, so no additional comments needed from me! It's simply a must try restaurant, especially if you love Italian cuisine as much as I do!

What a night!

Day 4

The High Line in Chelsea, American Museum of Natural History, Jazz

Our fourth morning in New York started on the West Side of the borough of Manhattan, Chelsea. That's where The High Line starts, a 1.45-mile-long (2.33 km) linear park built on an elevated section of disused New York Central Railroad. What a lovely use of the old railway line! A park up in the air - how cool is that! I would say the most creative park I have ever visited! Additionally, here you can see an absolutely opposite side of glamorous Manhattan. I'll be honest, I was even a little bit shocked to see so much of the industrial look of the town and so much construction! So many new buildings are going up, I don't think there will be much left of the old industrial stuff! But what really surprised me about the park is the quite unique walk through the most unexpected landscape of old buildings and narrow little streets. It's a perfect filming location what with all the superbly designed little nooks and crannies, as well beer gardens, food stalls and art galleries.

What scared me the most in Manhattan is the amount of tall apartment buildings with the signs Luxury Rentals. Luxury in the middle of the port with the views on subway trains and noise from the busiest highway? What a sick idea of luxury! The world gets crazy!

Our afternoon was spent in the American Museum of Natural History. With my love for the stars and planets, I simply couldn't miss the planetarium show they offer in the museum. What a beautiful journey through the universe it was. Beautiful! I learned so much. I was so impressed by everything I saw about our endless universe, I started to wonder whether I should drop my office job and become an astronomer! I am quite serious! I have always had such a huge interest in the cosmos and this museum gave it all to me! I literally felt I was for 3 hours floating in the cosmos! I also very much enjoyed the walk down the spiral walkway known as the Heilbrun Cosmic Pathway, an image-oriented timeline of the universe's history from the Big Bang to the present day. I had so many questions in my head by the end of this walk. My brain was working as never before. I don't know how yet but I am going to go into space!

And, of course, I didn't miss the huge amazing bones of all kinds of outrageous dinosaurs! Just wow! I mean, just wow!

Our fourth night in New York we dedicated to jazz. Those of you who know me well, know my love for this kind of music! There is no better music for me than really good jazz. Everybody's aware jazz and blues have such a deep history in New York. When I think of New York, I always think jazz, too! We went to Dizzy's Club. What a fun and gorgeous jazz club which is part of the Lincoln Center Jazz in the Time Warner building! And if you don't know it's there, you would never guess! I was simply jazzed away! Overdosed with an amazing trio (do not remember their names, shame on me)! Loved the stage back dropped with windows looking out into the New york City. Classy and absolutely amazing experience! If there would be just one thing I could do in New York, I would choose jazz!

We actually didn't know what kind of food to expect at Dizzy's, so before heading to the jazz club we had a dinner at Quality Meats. We would never knew about existence of this fabulous restaurant if we hadn't smelled their amazing food on our way to the hotel during our first night in the city. We immediately knew we should reserve a table there. Very unnoticeable place from the outside but, oh my, inside the atmosphere is fantastic. It was a wonderful mix of old and new reflected both in the menu and the decor! And very busy! It was a challenge to get a table there for one of the nights during our trip. The food is simply high end! It was definitely the nicest dinner we had in New York!

Day 5

Museum of Modern Art, The rest of Central Park, New York Cheesecake

On our fifth day in New York we woke up to a heavy rain. So we decided finally to slow down and chill. Rain is beautiful in New York. It calms you down. It hugs you with a hot cup of tea. I wore my favorite cashmere sweater. So cozy! We took an umbrella and ran into the wet streets of the big city. It rained cats and dogs. Fortunately, we had already planned to spend our last morning in New York exploring the Museum of Modern Art. Honestly, I have never seen so many people in a museum before. Everybody was escaping the rain among the paintings of so many great artists. Although, some modern art I don't understand at all! For example, what is there in a wall with a small bullet hole you can't even see? Or an empty white board? But I am in love with Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night and Monet's Water Lilies. Art like that inspires!

The rest of the day we were exploring Central Park. Central Park is huge so we manged to see only half of it during our trip. I could walk there forever enjoying little ponds, trees, bridges, lawns, cafes and so much more. I was a little bit sad that leaves didn't turned to all the fall colors. Regardless, every corner of the park is breathtaking. Next time I am in New York, I will just quietly enjoy myself walking around the park without any rush to see and try everything at once this city offers. I even won't take my camera. I will pretend I am a true New Yorker who never stops dreaming of love like Carrie Bradshaw in Sex in the City.

By the way, during our walk through the park we were caught by a very interesting soap entertainment. It looked completely silly! But, oh my, so much fun! Robert and I went into his childhood for a whole 15 minutes or so. The funniest thing we did in New York!

And we didn't miss visiting Zabar's, a gourmet food shop where we found a true New York cheescake.

For our last dinner we decided to go back to Milano Bistro, we so loved their pasta. It was a warm quiet evening saying goodbye to New York. Early the next morning we headed to the airport to fly back home to San Francisco!

I love you, New York! See you again soon!