New York Minute
Finish packing at 2 am. Go to bed for 3hrs, call your Uber, go through security, and catch the 7am flight to New York. Thankfully the flight from Toronto to New York, is only about an hour. We flew in to LaGuardia, then took a taxi to 8th avenue, which is pretty close to Time Square.
NYC traffic is no joke - it was bumper to bumper for an hour. Luckily we made it to the hotel, checked in and were able to freshen up before exploring the city. I even snuck in a little nap!
The great thing about the big apple is the vast amount of restaurants, people, and culture. I don't think one can experience all of New York in one single trip. The city simply has too much to offer. While my trip was short, and only lasted a mere 2 days, it was perfect, and will be the first of many.
LOCATION
The Rowe (700 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA) : We stayed at this popular hotel just around the corner from Time Square. The rooms are rather small, but the location is convenient, and the hotel has a restaurant/bar on site. I gotta warn you though, accommodation in NYC is expensive - prices wont always reflect value, it may only be an indication of demand.
FOOD
Egg Shop - 151 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Nice vibe, chill playlist & friendly staff! Brunch hotspot, egg everything.
Shake Shack - 691 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA
Honestly the best of fast food. I always make a point to stop by, whenever I cross borders. (the original ShackBurger is my ultimate fav.)
Pizza Cafe - 765 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States
Right across from the Rowe, this joint has all the pizza you could ever want.
ATTRACTIONS
Broadway - Evidently this was my first time seeing a broadway show. I saw Waitress, and fell in love. If you've never experienced broadway I would suggest seeing a show in NY. Theres a theatre on every block within the vicinity of Time Square.
Washington Square Park - Famous park + great atmosphere
Time Square - Packed with tourists, but definitely worth seeing all the lights and experiencing the energy.
SoHo - Soho stands for the south of Houston Street. This neighbourhood was once home to local artists, but over the years it went through gentrification. Now it's home to a range of boutiques and historic store fronts and lofts. Probably my favourite part of the trip, it's like its own little world. Soho has all the shops and the trendiest restaurants/ brunch hotspots.
Apartment by The Line - Cool concept store designed as an apartment. Literally everything is for sale.