New York, New York

So good they named it twice? I am not to sure about that, but certainly a lot better than previous experiences, though the main reason might have been because it was sunny? Have I mentioned the weather on this holiday, the weather was awesome!! I know that myself and other English folk have a preoccupation with the weather but England so far in 2013 has been cold, a fair amount of snow has fallen and though the sun has turned up on occasion it has been a cold and fairly useless sun. The American sun appears (unsurprisingly) to be much bigger and warmer. Our day in New York (Monday 8th) was the warmest of the holiday and topped out at a mighty 25 degrees Celsius, that's a full 20 degrees more than anything at home. Anyway, I digress somewhat...

The New York day started with a surprisingly easy journey in from Cos Cob until we got to about 500 yards from the hotel (more about that separately) and then traffic hell ensued for the next 40 minutes. After dropping off our bags and having the required recovering cup of tea, we went to explore, Times Square, Grand Central Station and the UN building were all good in their own way but the highlight of NYC has to be Central Park. Estimates of the value of the land alone is closing on a trillion dollars but it is worth it. Such a wonderful oasis of calm amongst the bustling chaos around makes it feel like it is in a separate world. I have to admit though I would consider selling a tiny bit of the park if someone would invest that in some cleaners for the subway. It is possible that NYC subway is the grimiest in the world?

For a change we went out for tea, though only a few doors down to the Tir Na Nog Irish restaurant and bar. Good food, very friendly waitress staff and a great atmosphere. Makes for a pretty damn good New York day.