New York City

In May of 2019, a visit to the city that never sleeps resulted in a most dazzling proposal to marry the most charming man. It was a dream come true. Strolling the streets of that concrete jungle, riding the subway beneath skyscrapers, walking the length of Central Park, and gazing down on it all from the towering heights, all hand-in-hand with that one true love. It was everything they say it is, and more. The smells, the people, the food, the noise, nothing compared.

In preparing for the trip (unaware of the impending proposal), being the obvious planner, maps were studied, reviews read, all thoroughly absorbed to ensure it would be a stress-free, enjoyable time. It was a thrill when all the plans worked out better than expected (except that one restaurant that didn’t live up to its reviews). The main events the trip was planned around were Professor Brian Cox at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at Lyric Theatre.

Professor Brian Cox was astonishing, and while much of what was taught (and considered understood, at the time), is now lost, it was a truly enlightening and enriching evening. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child was simply magical. The view from the hotel offered a sneak peek at the enchantment that was to come at the Lyric Theatre, just across the street. Part one viewed one evening, and part two another. The entire experience was outstanding, from the theatre and cast to the music and delivery of the story.

Other than those two main events, visits to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum and the American Museum of Natural History were breathtaking. A stroll past the Met was a stunning sight to see, and a walk through the New York City Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building was a terrific stop too. Grand Central Terminal was an incredible work of art to behold, and the Whispering Gallery was an amusing surprise inside. Central Park was impressive in its utter grandeur, and a walk down 5th avenue was an unexpected delight.

As anticipated, the food was nothing short of sensational. The world-famous Banana Pudding from Magnolia Bakery lived up to its fame. Breakfast at Bubby’s was delicious, it’s been on the top of the list of places to visit during the next trip to the big apple. Dinner at Osteria Morini was so mouthwatering, a second visit had to be squeezed into the itinerary. The atmosphere and cuisine were authentic Italian. With a smashing location under the Empire State Building, Tacombi was vibrant and full of flavor. Joe’s Pizza on Carmine Street was also fantastic.

So much more could have been enjoyed, being in the beautiful melting pot that is New York City, but with such a short trip, these luxuries were nonetheless relished to their full extent. Until next time, Empire State.

Until next time,

The Maple Press