I’d never been there.  It looked daunting in all the photos.  Mountains of buildings packed close together.  I’d heard about the crush of people and their intensity.  Frankly I tend to like vacations that are a little more laid back.  Oh well I thought, I guess it will be okay….I will be with three of the people I love…

I was unprepared to fall in love.  The beauty of the architecture, the majesty of the Statue of Liberty, the kinetic energy all around you, the kaleidoscope of humanity and the skyline both day and night can only be experienced to be explained. Attractions that shouldn’t be missed are the ageless beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a behind the scenes look at Radio City Music Hall and a tour of NBC studios.  It was all amazing.  We saw street dancers, musicians and vendors, small delis with richly hued vegetables and fruits and pastries stuck in among myriad shops and businesses.   Impressions came from all senses...flowers sold on the street were fresh cut, the colors were vibrant. Central Park was richly lush and provided a haven from so much concrete as we spent an hour riding bikes through the park. The hum of so many people of so many different cultures moving through the city streets with purpose and focus, lights were bright in Time Square and businesses were represented on a much grander scale than I had ever seen. We enjoyed a great family style dinner at Tony’s Di Nipoli in Times Square and an incredible breakfast at the 42nd Street Eatery. Both uniquely different, yet delicious in their own way.

As I walked through the city I could feel the creative energy.  It was amazing… so much rich history; I could feel the passion and innovation of past generations of Americans, I could experience the richness of art and culture in museums.  The hope of generations past and present seems to live in this city. Artisans, athletes, entrepreneurs, politicians, powerbrokers…they gravitate to this marvelous American City.  There is so many things to do and see.  Being there gave me a new understanding of why terrorists concentrated their efforts on New York City in 2001.  It is not the sheer numbers of people that they destroyed.  Their aim was to destroy the spirit of America which is a palpable presence in New York City.  Being in that city, feeling the collective energy of dreams and hopes and passions of numerous generations made me realize why that city could arise in dignity and strength after such devastation. NYC embodies all of the ideals upon which America was founded.  If you can, you should not miss the experience that is a trip to New York, New York.