Is it a Bird? Is it a Plane? No, it’s the Oculus!

What is the Oculus in New York City? Walking along the sidewalk of Lower Manhattan, as you turn a corner, your eyes rest upon a gigantic image of a bird in flight. Or is it? Perhaps it appears to be the skeleton of some sort of space craft instead. From the outside it seems dwarfed next to the cluster of skyscrapers near One World Trade Center. It is only when you enter its doors, at the street level, you come to the realization it leads to the new mass transit system replacing what was destroyed during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This centerpiece is the World Trade Center Transportation Hub. Eleven different lines connect New Jersey’s PATH trains and New York City’s subways. Combined with an upscale retail mall of shops and eateries, the Oculus reflects the ambience of its nemesis, the World Trade Center. Before you leave, step onto the mezzanine level for a phenomenal snapshot to record your visit. Selfies permitted.

Experience NYC’s Subway

Everyone should experience a ride on the New York City Subway. After all, it’s the largest transit system in the world. Grab a map, choose Express or Local, find the correct platform (the signs are posted on both sides), then check the different lines, letters, and numbers. It’s time to hop aboard. Everyone does it. New Yorkers survive by using it, daily commuters with steady employment insist on it, tourists rely on it to get to popular attractions, and party-seekers need the connections from uptown to downtown hotspots. Is it crowded? Of course. With over 8.5 million people on the island of Manhattan, that’s a given. Should you avoid all eye contact? Hold on to the pole? Eat your breakfast, or lunch, in front of everyone? Talk on your cell phone? Tell that toddler to stop his insane temper tantrum? Give up your seat for the balding old man? Or take a video of a short-tempered altercation? No worries. These are not unusual or unique disruptions. They simply reflect an ordinary day on the New York City Subway.

Notice the Beauty of NYC’s Central Park

Manhattan’s famous Central Park is New York City’s public haven for recreation, entertainment, community, or solitude. Look in one direction to be greeted by towering monuments. Turn and see. As you stroll in the shadow of the Wisteria Pergola, take a moment to gaze above at the delicate purple tendrils. Inhale the fragrance. Cross over another stone foot bridge, paying close attention to embellished details in ornate finials. The architecture is magnificent. Hear the soothing sound of water spewing forth from angelic fountains. Close your eyes, make a wish, and toss a coin into the crystal clear waters. Natural beauty is visible at every turn. Sights, sounds, and aromas fill the air. What’s that smell? At the edge of the park sits a legendary hot dog vendor offering tasteful sausages in steamed buns with condiment combinations for every palate. Well done, Central Park.

NYC’s John Lennon Memorial Impacts All

Springtime in New York City’s Central Park is filled with a rebirth of life, peace, hope, and nostalgia. Take, for example, Strawberry Fields. The Quiet Zone, across the street from the Dakota Apartments, is dedicated to the memory of former Beatle, John Lennon, whose life was tragically taken too soon. Named after the popular song, “Strawberry Fields Forever”, the landscaped area appropriately resembles the shape of a teardrop. A black and white mosaic is the focal point which draws tourists and music enthusiasts alike while boldly proclaiming the powerful message of peace: IMAGINE. Sit on a bench awhile and reflect on the peaceful surroundings. Then appreciate the tribute and take a little bit of easy living away with you while humming “Strawberry Fields Forever.” 🍓