New York
Tues 4th October
Today we docked in Brooklyn New York. The ship had provided lists of information about each individual having to clear US border patrol which would probably take about 5hrs for the full ship. We also had to find our own way across to Manhattan if we chose to go across. I had already done my research before we left home so had my printed ferry map. We opted to get off early hoping to avoid the big queue. We were lucky and with our global entry pass we were through the line quickly and then in the ferry queue. It was lashing it down with rain as we queued for the ferry, we had down loaded the ferry app so bought our tickets on line (many folk didn’t so they experienced more queues) we were soon on the ferry and across the water.
Our plan was to take it gently and see some things we hadn’t seen before, we got off the ferry at 34th street and walked up to Grand Central Station. A stunning building, so well kept with many lights and not a single bulb was out. Paul took several photos then back out into the rain to walk towards Bryant’s Park hoping for the rain to stop, it didn’t. We found a lovely bakery/cafe at the side of the Park and called in for lunch and a dry off. Lunch was delicious then we were back out and on our way again. After a stroll round Times Square taking in the sights we headed off to the Rockerfella Centre, had a walk around, then decided as it was still lashing it down we would head to the subway and get back to Brooklyn and the ship. We bought our tickets and headed for the F line, unfortunately we got on the wrong train which went in the right direction just spurred off once it crossed the river so we had to get off and change stations to get the right train. Everyone was really friendly and helpful, We were however in an urban neighbourhood where the train went up on stilts above the road so it was very dark with plenty of rubbish bags in doorways. You get the vibe. We didn’t feel intimidated, we walked purposefully and got to our next station. The ticket machine was not accepting our card to pay so the very kind station guy just opened the gates and let us through without paying.
Once we got to the train stop nearest our ship, I asked the policemen outside to point us in the right direction as there was many entrances, he said No Mam you dont want to be walking all that way, call a taxi! So I called an Uber which was promptly with us for the ride back to the ship.
Once back on board we made the most of the spectacular view from our balcony as we watched the Manhattan Skyline start to sparkle as day turned in to night.
I was shattered after being out walking all day in the rain, so we ordered room service and enjoyed the view.
The View from our balcony of the Manhattan skyline