WA N D E R L U S T
Day 2
Continuing our adventure in Brooklyn the next day, we ventured into the neighborhood of
Williamsburg. The terms “hip” or “hipster” are often used to describe this area and you are very
likely to see residents roaming around with a green latte or juice in hand and a yoga mat neatly
tucked behind. Both sides of the street are covered with trendy cafes, repurposed factories turned
into art studios, and chic boutiques here and there. Moreover, majority of the walls are branded
with striking crafted graffiti, adding to the liveliness. Feel free to hop into any of the restaurants
or cafés. Wanting to grab a bite and after some browsing, I got introduced to Rainbow Bagels,
reflecting the nature of its residence well. These visually brilliant bagels are served at The Bagel
Store with cream cheese flavors ranging from sweet to savory! A big thumbs up to check it out.
Coincidentally, the seasonal food festival, Smorgasburg, was happening right down the street,
further making my taste buds tingle. In that area, I also came upon a capsized version of the
Manhattan skyline from the East River Park, allowing for a great panoramic click.
With half of the day still ahead, I decided to visit two more prominent landmarks in Manhattan:
the New York Public Library (NYPL) and Grand Central Station. While walking to NYPL, my
sister pointed out the buildings and view used in one of the Spider-Man movies, exactly opposite
the library. So, if you are a superhero movie fan be sure to check that out and imagine a red and
blue figure flying around. The first greetings by NYPL are from the two lion statues, named
Patience and Fortitude, leading to the entrance. The library was packed with people of all ages,
with some, like me, interested in site seeing, some taking advantage of the vast collection of books
and research resources available, and majority studying or clicking away to reach that deadline.
As the exterior, the interior is breathtaking, from the smallest details inscribed onto the tiles and
walls, the arches and domes, the beautiful chandeliers and accessories to every wall covered in
historical images, with the ceilings taking the lead visually.
As already established above, New Yorkers prefer to travel on foot and the Grand Central Station
was a further proof of that. Like NYPL, I was immediately mesmerized by the inside. Built in the
1990s, the interior is a reflection of just that and the layout is expansive. The main concourse is
where travelers buy their tickets and commence their journey or exchange routes, also serving as a
meeting place, creating a constant flow of bustling crowds. The striking features inside include
the enormous arched glass windows, the four-faced brass clock on top of the information booth,
and the elaborately decorated astronomical ceiling, which is said to be quite inaccurate. Having
been featured in so many movies over the years, seeing it in person was splendid. The lower level
constitutes of a huge dining hall which is almost always filled with occupants not leaving any
seat empty. The station exudes royalty due to its marble and detailing, with the commuters and
masses adding modernity, creating a perfect blend.
Almost getting there! Next destination, Central Park. If only I had more time, I would have spent
the entire day sitting there reading. Situated in between blocks of buildings, the park is extremely
big with corners touching all directions and will take you a good day to see it all. Hot dog, churro
and ice-cream stands are littered throughout the park, people are snoozing, walking or running,
dogs with their owners taking their walk of the day, policemen doing a tour of the park on their
gorgeous enormous horses, and last but not the least, the Angels Fountain! Being a Friends TV
show fanatic, I was ecstatic to see the original one. Also, somewhere in the middle is a specific
vertical stretch covered with trees and benches on the side, a very popular capture amongst street
artists and painters. Moreover, inside that block of buildings and within walking distance from
the park is the famous Trump Tower, now acknowledged more due to its namesake’s political
influence and movements. So if your interest sparks, the 66 stories gold embossed skyscraper
can be added to your list.
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