Reflections

Fresh off the trip, there are a myriad of "trinkets" that I want to pen before the memory fails. I've lumped them into some smaller categories and expect this section to grow with distance from the trip.

People: The New Yorkers we met were very friendly. From those on the street corners to those working in customer service, New Yorkers love to talk. I enjoyed the variety of accents as we walked from location to venue. It is indeed a cultural "bread basket" and languages from all over the world are heard. I believe I may have been called "Stupid Tourist" in multiple languages.

There is, however, a tension between driver and pedestrian which should not be underestimated. It wasn't the walking tourists that seemed to irk drivers, as we watched the walk lights very closely.

Food: We traveled as a family and I don't think really celebrated New York "delicassies" as we would husband and wife. However, we did drop by several street side shops for coffee, snacks and the odd slice. A new favorite, the "Gyro", also caught my attention. It's very much like the donair we serve on the east coast, but with a different sauce. Our son was really keen on the vendors... but the nutritional value of four hot dogs is indeed suspect!!!

Transportation: One of my greatest dilemmas before leaving Nova Scotia was dealing with the distance from where we were staying to NYC. Driving in NYC definitely isn't Kansas Toto, but wasn't that difficult either. New York has a clearly outlined grid of roadways which, when considered before arrival, can be easily navigated. We also toted along some cool maps which included major streets and attractions. Parking on the island can be expensive, but we had great luck and for $30.00 you can safely leave your vehicle for the day to wander the city.