We sailed into New York at 4 am this morning and we felt that this was too good an opportunity to miss, so the alarm was set for 3.45. We arrived on deck just as we were passing under the Verrazano bridge with the lights of the city up ahead. Unfortunately we were not able to access the front of the ship for “security” reasons, but passed by the welcoming face of the Statue of Liberty before entering the Hudson River. Even at this time of the morning the city was well lit under a starry sky.
As this was the first stop in the USA the entire ship had to clear customs and immigration so Princess organised a progressive process to avoid too much queuing. Our time was allotted as 9.45 and so we went back to bed to catch up on our beauty sleep.
The ship is docked in Manhattan , pier 90 right in the heart of the city. After a leisurely breakfast we had a good walk around the ship capturing some nice images of the Manhattan Skyline.
In fairness to both Princess and the border force the whole immigration process went very smoothly and we were off the ship within half an hour. A short taxi ride took us to the first stop of the day, a touch of culture at the Whitney Museum of American Art. In addition to exhibiting famous works by such artists as Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock, it also features some challenging works from newer artists; a very enjoyable hour or so.
Adjacent to the museum is the entrance to the High Line, a walkway made from an old elevated rail track which runs for about one and a half miles through the city. From the walkway you get some great views of the the hustle and bustle of the city life below.
The High Line is advertised as being a quiet walk in greenery above the city but today it was very crowded and overall we were a little disappointed.
Reaching the end of the walkway we made our way to the subway and took the train to Times Square. If I thought the High Line was busy then this was even worse. It was difficult to get our bearings at first because of the crowds of people.
We eventually found our way across the square en route to Central Park, stopping for lunch at a small bar off Broadway. Hamburgers always taste better in the States and today’s was no exception.
There was a noticeable police presence in the city today and as we travelled north on Fifth Avenue, we discovered the reason. The United Nations General Assembly is sitting this week with delegations from all over the world. Many of them were staying at the five star hotels dotted around these streets and the police suddenly blocked all the pavements to let them get out. Fleets of black SUV’s with darkened windows flanked by secret service men,just like on the movies,passed in front of us before the street was eventually reopened.
Next stop on the itinerary was to be the Apple store on Fifth Avenue, and as we entered we noticed large queues waiting outside to register for the new iPhone and Apple Watch, which have just been released. Sorry Diarra we didn’t wait.
Central Park is always worth a visit when in New York but since we last visited the hordes of skaters and skateboarders seemed to have disappeared meaning a walk around was much more pleasurable. As always the sweet smell of horse manure lingered in the air as we passed the line of carriages plying for trade.
After a walk back to the ship we were ready for a sit down. The last time we were here the walking seemed easier but I guess we were a lot younger then.
Entertainment on the ship tonight was a modern jazz group from New York and they were very good. They were joined by a tap dancer and a burlesque dancer, a wonderfully enjoyable show. Now to decide what to do tomorrow!
Again, if you loved me you would 😏. Thanks for trying anyway. Looks like you got to experience the essence of NY.