travel

All Aboard: Grand Central Station, NYC

No matter the day or hour, people can be seen flocking in droves to New York City’s Grand Central Terminal. It’s hard to imagine the doors formally opened to the public in 1913. As the first “stairless” station, gradual sloping ramps accommodate even the tiniest toddler at its mother’s hem to the elder traveler with a cane. The main concourse is flanked by gigantic glass window panes and classical architecture. Stop for a moment and look up at the gilded arched ceiling. Notice the astronomical phenomenon made up of 2500 stars. And that’s not all. With 60 retail shops and 35 eateries, this impressive landmark is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is considered the world’s most visited tourist attraction. 

Dining Outside the Home: Baked by Melissa in Manhattan, New York City, New York

Dining Outside the Home: Baked by Melissa in Manhattan, New York City, New York! When it’s late at night and your sweet tooth just won’t give up, the answer is bite-sized cupcakes. Oh, yeah. This Manhattan bakery came recommended to us by an energetic waiter in a local pub as well as the helpful valet around the corner who pointed us in the right direction. Think about it. Mini cupcakes, the size of a quarter, with at least 18 distinct flavors like Red Velvet, Cookies & Cream, Strawberry Shortcake, Chocolate Chip Pancake, and Caramel Cone. At less than 50 calories each, it’s practically heaven-sent. The average customer eats 4-5 cupcakes at one time. Nice. Needless to say, we walked away with a gift box holding the coveted creations. OMG! YUM!

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. 

Dining Outside the Home: The View Restaurant and Lounge at Times Square in Manhattan, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: The View Restaurant and Lounge at Times Square in Manhattan, New York City, New York! This is where to go for a perfect vantage point of the Manhattan skyline at sunset. The View is a revolving rooftop restaurant inside the Marriott Marquis, and the only one of its kind. You really don’t want to pass up a rich culinary experience against an unforgettable backdrop. Take your time to locate points of interest as well as landmark skyscrapers. The revolving floor makes a 360° turn every hour. The Three-Course Prix-Fixe menu offers an unsurpassed Beginning, incredible Main attractions, and a stunning Finish to the meal. Don’t forget to order a signature Manhattan Cocktail. After all, it’s a toast to Manhattan!

Dining Outside the Home: Virgil’s Real Barbecue in Times Square, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: Virgil’s Real Barbecue in Times Square, New York City, New York! Stacked next to the door is a crib of split logs, ranging from hickory to oak, and fruit trees. But that’s what you do when you own a restaurant that smokes meat at a low temperature for up to 10 hours. Virgil’s Real Barbecue means business. The House Classics include pulled pork, Carolina pulled chicken, Texas beef brisket, Memphis smoked spare ribs, and smoked BBQ chicken. I think you get the idea. Perhaps that’s why no one is embarrassed to order the Pig Out Platter. You’re among friends.