Ever since I could remember I have been obsessed with New York City. You could probably call it… love at first encyclopedia picture. (for those born after 1992 its this book of information we used before we could Wikipedia everything).
Flipping through those pages I fell in love with a place I had never even been before. I told myself that I would one day explore the entire city and if you cant trust yourself to keep your word, then who can you trust? On this weeks episode of “That Crazy Canadian in NYC”…
Financial District
Like always I was on a little bit of a time constraint so I had to make sure I used the short period effectively. I arrived after midnight and headed out for a drink at a bar called Ulysses. Located smack in the middle of the Stone Street Historic District, it was a fun and friendly bar with a great atmosphere. Regulars and newbies like myself were all chatting and the owner himself took the time to explain the significance of the cobble stoned street outside. For those keen to know, the street is as old as the city and was actually the first ever paved road! I never had the opportunity to eat there, but when I walked by the next day I saw nothing but smiling faces.
Next day and with less than 6 hours left to explore, I did what I do best. I flaneured. The art of strolling around without much of a real purpose. I watched the comings and goings of wall street employees. Enjoyed a coffee and muffin in the courtyard of Trinity Church. Entered and then immediately exited Century 21. (Its a great place to shop, just mentally prepare yourself for crowds). Ate a fabulous sandwich at Financier Patisserie. Grabbed some bulls balls. And lastly walked along the river gawking at the amazing view of the Statue of Liberty. I should probably add I stopped into one or two or maybe five Duane Reade’s in order to stock up on some American products we don’t have in the way way north. It was a beautiful day in the sun, and although my time would eventually expire, I walked around as if I had forever. I say it a lot in my posts but that is my favourite way to travel. I just start walking and take whatever route attracts me at the time. This time my unorganized exploration led me to some great food, cool people, and some very very busy Manhattan streets.
Fed, walked, and in a general good mood I headed back to my hotel. Another borough found and seen. I know there is plenty more I could experience in lower Manhattan, but for an extremely short stop, I think I did all right.