While exploring a new country with my camera is one of my favourite things to do while on holiday, it can get a little bit overwhelming sometimes. Not only it is heavy to carry in my backpack all the time, but it can be distracting. So, when we woke up the next day, I decided to leave it behind and bring my mini camera instead. We had a fun day ahead of us and I didn’t want to overthink it.
Our first stop was one of the most famous delis in New York City called Katz’s Delicatessen. Not only is it famous as a filming site for ‘When Harry Met Sally‘, but it also has the best pastrami sandwich in the city. We ordered a single sandwich to share, but even then, we couldn’t finish it. They also served the sandwich with a side of pickles. While I wasn’t a big fan of the pickles, preferring them more sweet than sour, the pastrami sandwich was delicious! The vibe of this place was exactly what you would expect from a busy New York diner: bustling, energetic, and full of character. We loved it.
After the filling breakfast, we decided to visit Washington Square Park and simply people-watch. With coffee in hand, we soaked in the atmosphere of Manhattan’s mornings and watched as the city slowly came to life around us. As we continued to West Village, we stopped at the corner of Bedford Street to take a picture in front of an apartment building from F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Having my picture taken in front of the building was on my NYC bucket list, so I couldn’t miss it!
Situated on Perry Street, not too far from Bedford Street, you can find a Carrie Bradshaw apartment building. This Sex and the City location was a must-see for me, as I’m a big fan of the show and the movies. Strolling through the streets of West Village was surprisingly calm and peaceful, and it didn’t feel like we were in the midst of bustling Manhattan. And I couldn’t help but wonder: when it came to picking a neighbourhood to live in Manhattan, West Village would be the perfect place to be.
On our way to Chelsea, we bought a quick snack from Magnolia Bakery and then decided to walk the High Line. The High Line is a former elevated railway turned urban park and it offers a unique perspective of the city. We strolled along the landscaped pathway, stopping every few meters to admire the skyscrapers that surrounded us.
The highlight of our day came in the evening when we embarked on a small adventure to New Jersey. Boarding a train bound for the Prudential Center in Newark, we went to see our first NHL game – Florida Panthers vs. the New Jersey Devils. The atmosphere at the venue was electrifying, making it the perfect way to spend the rest of the evening!