New York City … there is no other place like it.

On this trip we stayed downtown, in the SoHo area.  Our accommodations were at the Four Points Sheraton – a great location, but very small rooms.  A 3* hotel.

Start your day with a lovely walk along the High Line rail-trail, a two mile elevated path, complete with gardens.  Completed in 2014 on the West side and located near the Meatpacking District, it is a very well maintained old railroad track.  Very popular in good weather and a new NYC must see.

Circle Line Tour – This 2 1/2 hour tour was a bit long but the only way to circumnavigate the island and see the best of Manhattan.  Great views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and much more.  Get to the bow of the boat as quickly as possible after departure for the best views and to avoid the loud but interesting narrator.

A visit to Chelsea Market  is highly recommended, particularly after walking the High-Line trail from north to south.  The market is an enclosed upscale food market/shopping mall in the heart of Chelsea.  Try the the Lobster Place for fresh fish and lobster, and don’t forget the chowder.  For dessert Sarabeth’s offers some mouth-watering baked goods.

Standard Biergarten – Stop in for a brew at the base of the High Line rail trail.  This crowded beer hall is a favorite haunt for young professionals.  4*

McSorley’s Old Ale House – Thankfully the oldest Irish tavern in NYC has not changed.  It remains a dark, nostalgic drinking establishment.  Small mugs of house brew can be purchased two at a time.  Worth a visit just to step back in time.  Best to avoid it on St. Patrick’s Day.  5*

Monte’s Trattoria – this family owned Italian restaurant in Greenwich Village offers average cuisine and service.  With so many great restaurants in NY, we would recommend finding another place to dine.  3*

Spice Market Restaurant – The decor is straight out of Southeast Asia and very well done, creating an inviting atmosphere.  Dim lighting adds to the ambiance but does make it difficult to read the menu, which offers a selection of SE Asian street food.  A truly great dining experience.  4 1/2*

Balthazar – A must do for a fantastic NY brunch experience.  Reservations are required for the dining room.  If you can’t make reservations, be sure to try the boulangerie next door.  The Jambon and Gruyere croissant is fantastic!  5*

Safe travels!

… Mark & Dana …