Breathe, breathe in the air

When I’m in NYC, I just want to inhale it – the energy, the people, the food, the buzz.  All of it.  Well, I suppose I can omit the urine stench and the “juice” that leaks from the garbage trucks in summer, but, aside from those liquids, I want it all.  I love the spontaneity of the city, the possibility for good things that lies around each and every corner.  I’m not naive, but I prefer to focus upon the potential for good things, not bad, when I’m walking around New York. Bad things can happen even in the most innocent of locations, as a recent experience illustrated.

Last weekend I spent a blissful 24 hours, solo, in the city.  And, while I traveled alone, my most favorite moments were shared with others, city friends and strangers alike.  Here’s how my time (and $) were spent…

I arrived at Grand Central Station and walked three blocks to my Hotwire booked hotel, The St Giles Court on 39th and Lexington.  The location was terrific, the price fair ($160) and the room lovely.  So far, so good.  I lightened my load, grabbed a quick bite to eat at a nearby diner (Scotty’s, solid and reasonable) and headed to Macy’s. Despite the cool rain, I was happy to walk at my own pace and my shopping was relaxing and productive.

I returned to my room and got dressed for a run.  I was unaware of any place to run other than Central Park, so I walked over to 5th and went north.  6+ miles later, I found my way down Lex with enough time to sneak in a mani/pedi prior to making my way over to the upper west side for drinks and dancing. 

My world traveling friend (who I used to babysit for!)

My girl, Alex, is heading off to travel the world, an occasion that must be marked with cocktails, obviously.  We met at Prohibition on Columbus at 84th, a cool spot for delicious drinks (agave margarita anyone?), a bite to eat and a tight cover band, East Side Mix.  Loud and fun.

Seeing as how I was basically in the neighborhood, I couldn’t bypass the Dublin House.  A pint of Harp, and a chat with a friendly man with a charming brogue later, and I happily caught a cab across town.  It was a good night.