Summer in the City: Day 1!

It's still hard for me to believe that one week ago today, I was boarding a plane on less than two hours sleep headed to New York City! During my last visit in November of 2013, I fell in love with the city. Not just the tall buildings, fabulous stores and pretty lights, but the people and the stories behind each of their faces. I was hooked, and made it one of my goals for 2014 to go back before the year was up!

November 2013

Though we had so much fun a year ago (read about that here, here and here,) this time, I wanted to do things a bit differently. First off, last year we spent SO much money taking taxis from the airport to the Loft and again from the Loft back to LaGuardia on check out day…approx. $100 round trip. Outrageous, right? I was determined not to let that happen again. It was also last year that we spent a lot of time planning activities, but didn't put any thought into food. For those of you that have experienced New York, you know that once you get there the selection (and price range) of restaurants can be a bit overwhelming. Due to frustration and simply not knowing our surroundings, we ate at places like Sbarro and Olive Garden in Times Square. Believe me, I'm still cringing! This trip, I was adamant about eating at quality, local places, instead of wasting money at tourist stops.

I also vowed that between visits I would learn everything I could about the city…and that is exactly what I did! During the past eight months, I have read everything that I could get my hands on about New York. I've studied maps, bus schedules, real estate and neighborhoods. The difference it made was unreal! I felt so much more knowledgeable this time around, and had my friend Katy by my side!

Katy and I arrived at LaGuardia around lunchtime on Sunday. Determined not to spend money on a cab, we grabbed our carry-on bags and headed straight for the bus stop (a quick walk from baggage claim.) After purchasing a Metro card and paying bus fare (a very affordable $2.50,) we boarded the M60 Select Service bus bound for Manhattan. It was so easy, and there were tons of other travelers also headed to the city from the airport. At 125th Street and Lexington Avenue, we got off the bus and jumped on the subway. With our destination near 23rd street, we got on the downtown local 6 train, at no cost. The subway is free when transferring from a local bus within a certain number of hours on the same day! One hour and 15 minutes later, with only $2.50 spent, we arrived at our destination! I have never been so proud! After studying NYC bus routes for hours from North Carolina, I conquered the bus system! 

Since we were running on very little sleep and had been flying all morning, we made this day of the trip a bit more relaxing. Our first stop, Shake Shack in Madison Square Park! We couldn't help but indulge in Shack Burgers and their famous cheese fries! So good!

After a late lunch, we showered and changed, then headed for Times Square. This was Katy's first trip to NYC, and though I hate the crowds in this area, it is a must-see! Afterward, we made our way to Pier 38 for our Twilight Tour on the New York Harbor. It was super relaxing, and filled with breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline!

 

 

After the cruise, we made our way back to the Flatiron District for some late night Chinese food before going back to the Loft! It was a successful first day in the city to say the least!

Interested in hearing about the rest of our trip? Don't miss my posts on day two and three!

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As always, Have a Sweet Day!