On the shores of Central Park’s Harlem Meer

The Harlem Meer is a picturesque artificial lake at the northeastern corner of Central Park. I enjoy this small lake, lined with benches, in all seasons. This artificial lake was constructed with the creation of Central Park, on what used to be a tidal marsh fed by a creek that led into the Harlem River.…

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Skyscraper tourism : New York’s Freedom Tower

For any who follow my site, you’ll know my family and I are big skyscraper fans. I’m always attracted to skyscrapers, and have visited many of the major skyscrapers around the world. I grew up with New York’s twin towers, and went to enjoy views from the observation deck numerous times – including a few…

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Book review: The Masterpiece

This is the third Fiona Davis novel I’ve read. Her novels are ideal for someone like me, who enjoys dual storylines: one historical, one contemporary. It’s a plus that Davis’ novels always include a New York landmark that serves as an additional story protagonist. In her first novel, it was the Barbizon – housing for…

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New York’s City Island and Orchard Beach

After writing about various islands you can visit when you’re passing through New York – Governor’s Island , Randall’s Island and Roosevelt Island – I’m following it up with another (new for us) island we visited during our last visit – City Island in the Bronx. City Island is easily reached by NY public transport.…

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Escaping one island to visit another: Manhattan’s Roosevelt Island

There’s so much to do when visiting the island of Manhattan, that visitors don’t often venture to “neighboring” islands. Who knew that New York was such an “island paradise”? I’ve already written about why you should go explore nearby Governor’s Island and peaceful, sports-packed Randall’s Island. I, myself, was guilty of never having been to…

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The Met’s rooftop art – New York

I’ve been a member of the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art for years, and it’s a place I visit often when I’m back in New York. Between the permanent collection, exhibitions and guided talks, there’s always plenty to see. But since my visits generally happen in the summer, I always make a point to…

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Enjoying a new angle – from NY’s The Vessel

When I was back in New York with my family this summer, we were curious to see a new monument that sprung up during our absence. In the building frenzy that is the Hudson Yards neighborhood of downtown Manhattan, a new landmark has taken shape – just beside the Hudson Yards subway stop. The Vessel.…

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New York beach day! Rockaway, Queens

When you think about New York City, many images and impressions probably spring to mind. I’ll wager none of those include pristine white beaches and refreshing ocean waves – all reachable by subway. Rockaway Beach in Queens offers an easy beach day far from the stresses of mega-city life, and all for the price of…

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