My Trip to NYC and Getting Engaged

    Visit my new blog! https://adventuresoffoxintheforest.wordpress.com/ for more adventure and travel ideas!
 
Wow do I have a lot going on. I've been meaning to write an update and explain a few projects I've been working on for a long time now, but lots has been put on hold. We've recently purchased a house and are getting ready to move, again. We've also had both sets of parents visit, been out of town, in town, then out of town. Needless to say I haven't caught a break for some time.

     However, I did get a chance to go back to the wonderful New York state and visit my college friends in NYC. I was originally going to keep this post a bit less personal, and describe all of the fun and fabulous things you can do in NYC for next to nothing. We may be employed but we are still budget-conscious people and NYC can rip a large hole in your wallet, quickly.

   Before I get started though, I do want to make an announcement. As of last Wednesday MB and are officially engaged!!! We've been together for 6 and a half years, so many of my friends have let me know "It's about time!" I was COMPLETELY surprised and the timing couldn't be more perfect. We were leaving the next day to go and see our college friends who have been around since we met. It was really special to have the opportunity to tell everyone in person. We are plenty busy right now, so I'll save wedding posts for another time. And yes, the ring is absolutely beautiful!

Hello Beautiful

     First I'll start off by saying that it is impossible to see all of New York in a few short days. Your best bet is to pick a few things you absolutely must do, and then remember to take some time for the unexpected things. One of the best things you can do in New York is grab street food or cheap eats somewhere (use Yelp!), find a nice place to sit, and people watch. Another important thing, like any big city, NYC is filled with overly-touristy areas. I've seen a lot of New York over the years and I tend to avoid areas that are bursting at the seams with tourists and its following of hawkers. With that being said, we did do touristy things, but we avoided Time Square like the plague. Also, take advantage of the public transportation. It isn't as cheap as it is in places like Asia, but avoiding cabs will save you a lot of money. Obviously, if you are a woman traveling alone, you will want to be careful.

There be land!

Being a Good American
     Probably the most touristy thing we did was go to Ground Zero and the World Trade Memorial. Everyone has a story from that day and I wanted to see what it looks like today. I'll admit, it was a bit of a CF. There is a LOT of construction going on and you go through security like you are at an airport. It's also a bit strange, seeing a place that held so much pain, for so many people around the world being used as a site for people to snap pictures of their children smiling in front of something they weren't even around to witness. However, there were people there from all over the world. Women in saris, French speaking tour guides, and groups of Japanese businessmen. The memorial itself is quite lovely, simple and moving. However the Caltrava disaster surrounding the memorial is a bit of an eyesore. Although it's still under construction, I really think the project doesn't need to be some grand architectural gesture, yet a simple reminder of the sacrifices made that day. Don't take my word for it, go see for yourself. This attraction is free, although there is a suggested donation. Don't feel bad not paying, the donation box was stuffed to the brim and clearly, if they are building a multi-billion dollar complex around the thing then I would question where that money is actually going.

Some time for reflection

Art Art Everywhere
     One of my favorite things I did whilst wandering the streets of the Big Apple was to visit the High Line. This is also a free activity and it is a beautiful park created from an abandoned above ground railway. Honestly one of the best architectural and landscape projects I have ever seen, and the building around the main section (in Chelsea) make a great backdrop to the whole experience. There is a great place to watch the sunset over Jersey, although we didn't have time to do this. It's also worth it to wander around Chelsea. If you're an art lover, it's free to go into most of the galleries and it's a really fun neighborhood.

Chelsea from above

Urban + Green + Art = Highline Love

A lady tending to her flock

Getting Freaky in the LES
     One of my favorite sections of the city is the Lower East Side, or the LES (or "lez" as I like to call it). I've got some friends who call this slice of heaven home and it's a wonderful spot to wander around. Coffee shops, bars, and small unique shops litter the landscape here. Grab a cup of joe and watch people pass by. There are also a good number of little slot parks and community gardens sprinkling the landscape. Just across the main drag is China Town. Another thing MB and I have a thing for is visiting the China Town in any major city. I would HIGHLY recommend stopping into a hole-in-the-wall noodle joint called Spicy Village. For about $6 you can get a delicious bowl of hand-pulled Szechwan noodles, yummy!!

Reuniting with friends in the LES

Where Brooklyn At?
     We spent a lot of time in Brooklyn. Many of my friends live there and Brooklyn has a very different feel from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. A great thing to do is to walk the Brooklyn Bridge. Again, this is free and the views are incredible. This is another touristy thing, but the locals often partake in this too. You can easily make your way to DUMBO and wander around the newly re-vitalized waterfront area. Fantastic views of Manhattan and some (if not the) best pizza in the city is located nearby at Juilana's. Expect a long wait, but again, the pizza is reasonably priced and absolutely amazing.

Eat this!

Here!

A bridge with a view

      Another great, cheap, way to see some more great waterfront views would be to take the water taxi from the DUMBO to Williamsburg. Now it wouldn't be appropriate to talk about Brooklyn without mentioning hipsters. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against hipsterism - don't lie to yourself, we all have a little hipster in us - but I am against people dressing or acting a certain way in a desperate attempt for attention (don't believe me? direct your attention here). But whatever, self-expression makes for epic people watching and this is the place to do it. The street art around around these parts is also impressive and overall I like Brooklyn, but I can do without the public furry party. Williamsburg is also, ironically (but if you know about city development not really) home to some of NYC's most rapidly growing and expensive real estate. The juxtaposition of those dressed like they just walked out of Comic Con and multi-million dollar apartment buildings is something you should see to believe. Again, the views are free (and wonderful). If you are lucky enough, and around during the summer there is a great small-business outdoor food market called Smorgasbord that is worth checking out. Some give out free samples, and smells are always free. Brooklyn offers a small(er) city feel in an infinite metropolis, which is nice to see.

Waterfront

Beautiful day for some time on the water

Brooklyn Brewery - save your time and money, buy it at a store
   Now if you know MB and I you know that we cannot visit a place without finding the local brewery and giving it a whirl. We were with my friend MC and he happens to be a virgin to the whole brewery culture, so we decided no trip to Brooklyn would be right without a visit to the famous Brooklyn Brewery. Boy were we wrong. Seriously save your money and time. Apparently the beer isn't even really brewed there anymore and the whole thing is a scam. Nothing about it gives it that authentic great place to sit and have a beer. First, they make you buy these stupid tokens, then the corral you into this massive line where one, maybe two people are serving beer. The bartenders are dead as doorknobs and extremely unfriendly to a point where I question what they actually know about their beer. Not to mention, they give you the beer in plastic cups. I'm sorry, but what brewery in its right mind would do this? Part of going to a brewery is to sit and enjoy the beer, have a friendly knowledgable staff and be a place where you can relax and have a good conversation. The Brooklyn Brewery is a place you can go to wait in a long line, to be served by an asshole, and drink in a crowded hall with hundreds of your screaming best friends. MC, we will show you how it's done the next time you are here in Denver town.

PINK ELEPHANTS!

Hangin out on the High Line

     Overall, you can do NYC, see plenty, and experience a lot if you know how it's done. I'm just so thankful I got to be with my friends to share in the excitement!

Love on the Brooklyn Bridge

 Until next time happy travelers!
-M

    Visit my new blog! https://adventuresoffoxintheforest.wordpress.com/ for more adventure and travel ideas!
 
Wow do I have a lot going on. I've been meaning to write an update and explain a few projects I've been working on for a long time now, but lots has been put on hold. We've recently purchased a house and are getting ready to move, again. We've also had both sets of parents visit, been out of town, in town, then out of town. Needless to say I haven't caught a break for some time.

     However, I did get a chance to go back to the wonderful New York state and visit my college friends in NYC. I was originally going to keep this post a bit less personal, and describe all of the fun and fabulous things you can do in NYC for next to nothing. We may be employed but we are still budget-conscious people and NYC can rip a large hole in your wallet, quickly.

   Before I get started though, I do want to make an announcement. As of last Wednesday MB and are officially engaged!!! We've been together for 6 and a half years, so many of my friends have let me know "It's about time!" I was COMPLETELY surprised and the timing couldn't be more perfect. We were leaving the next day to go and see our college friends who have been around since we met. It was really special to have the opportunity to tell everyone in person. We are plenty busy right now, so I'll save wedding posts for another time. And yes, the ring is absolutely beautiful!

Hello Beautiful

     First I'll start off by saying that it is impossible to see all of New York in a few short days. Your best bet is to pick a few things you absolutely must do, and then remember to take some time for the unexpected things. One of the best things you can do in New York is grab street food or cheap eats somewhere (use Yelp!), find a nice place to sit, and people watch. Another important thing, like any big city, NYC is filled with overly-touristy areas. I've seen a lot of New York over the years and I tend to avoid areas that are bursting at the seams with tourists and its following of hawkers. With that being said, we did do touristy things, but we avoided Time Square like the plague. Also, take advantage of the public transportation. It isn't as cheap as it is in places like Asia, but avoiding cabs will save you a lot of money. Obviously, if you are a woman traveling alone, you will want to be careful.

There be land!

Being a Good American
     Probably the most touristy thing we did was go to Ground Zero and the World Trade Memorial. Everyone has a story from that day and I wanted to see what it looks like today. I'll admit, it was a bit of a CF. There is a LOT of construction going on and you go through security like you are at an airport. It's also a bit strange, seeing a place that held so much pain, for so many people around the world being used as a site for people to snap pictures of their children smiling in front of something they weren't even around to witness. However, there were people there from all over the world. Women in saris, French speaking tour guides, and groups of Japanese businessmen. The memorial itself is quite lovely, simple and moving. However the Caltrava disaster surrounding the memorial is a bit of an eyesore. Although it's still under construction, I really think the project doesn't need to be some grand architectural gesture, yet a simple reminder of the sacrifices made that day. Don't take my word for it, go see for yourself. This attraction is free, although there is a suggested donation. Don't feel bad not paying, the donation box was stuffed to the brim and clearly, if they are building a multi-billion dollar complex around the thing then I would question where that money is actually going.

Some time for reflection

Art Art Everywhere
     One of my favorite things I did whilst wandering the streets of the Big Apple was to visit the High Line. This is also a free activity and it is a beautiful park created from an abandoned above ground railway. Honestly one of the best architectural and landscape projects I have ever seen, and the building around the main section (in Chelsea) make a great backdrop to the whole experience. There is a great place to watch the sunset over Jersey, although we didn't have time to do this. It's also worth it to wander around Chelsea. If you're an art lover, it's free to go into most of the galleries and it's a really fun neighborhood.

Chelsea from above

Urban + Green + Art = Highline Love

A lady tending to her flock

Getting Freaky in the LES
     One of my favorite sections of the city is the Lower East Side, or the LES (or "lez" as I like to call it). I've got some friends who call this slice of heaven home and it's a wonderful spot to wander around. Coffee shops, bars, and small unique shops litter the landscape here. Grab a cup of joe and watch people pass by. There are also a good number of little slot parks and community gardens sprinkling the landscape. Just across the main drag is China Town. Another thing MB and I have a thing for is visiting the China Town in any major city. I would HIGHLY recommend stopping into a hole-in-the-wall noodle joint called Spicy Village. For about $6 you can get a delicious bowl of hand-pulled Szechwan noodles, yummy!!

Reuniting with friends in the LES

Where Brooklyn At?
     We spent a lot of time in Brooklyn. Many of my friends live there and Brooklyn has a very different feel from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. A great thing to do is to walk the Brooklyn Bridge. Again, this is free and the views are incredible. This is another touristy thing, but the locals often partake in this too. You can easily make your way to DUMBO and wander around the newly re-vitalized waterfront area. Fantastic views of Manhattan and some (if not the) best pizza in the city is located nearby at Juilana's. Expect a long wait, but again, the pizza is reasonably priced and absolutely amazing.

Eat this!

Here!

A bridge with a view

      Another great, cheap, way to see some more great waterfront views would be to take the water taxi from the DUMBO to Williamsburg. Now it wouldn't be appropriate to talk about Brooklyn without mentioning hipsters. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against hipsterism - don't lie to yourself, we all have a little hipster in us - but I am against people dressing or acting a certain way in a desperate attempt for attention (don't believe me? direct your attention here). But whatever, self-expression makes for epic people watching and this is the place to do it. The street art around around these parts is also impressive and overall I like Brooklyn, but I can do without the public furry party. Williamsburg is also, ironically (but if you know about city development not really) home to some of NYC's most rapidly growing and expensive real estate. The juxtaposition of those dressed like they just walked out of Comic Con and multi-million dollar apartment buildings is something you should see to believe. Again, the views are free (and wonderful). If you are lucky enough, and around during the summer there is a great small-business outdoor food market called Smorgasbord that is worth checking out. Some give out free samples, and smells are always free. Brooklyn offers a small(er) city feel in an infinite metropolis, which is nice to see.

Waterfront

Beautiful day for some time on the water

Brooklyn Brewery - save your time and money, buy it at a store
   Now if you know MB and I you know that we cannot visit a place without finding the local brewery and giving it a whirl. We were with my friend MC and he happens to be a virgin to the whole brewery culture, so we decided no trip to Brooklyn would be right without a visit to the famous Brooklyn Brewery. Boy were we wrong. Seriously save your money and time. Apparently the beer isn't even really brewed there anymore and the whole thing is a scam. Nothing about it gives it that authentic great place to sit and have a beer. First, they make you buy these stupid tokens, then the corral you into this massive line where one, maybe two people are serving beer. The bartenders are dead as doorknobs and extremely unfriendly to a point where I question what they actually know about their beer. Not to mention, they give you the beer in plastic cups. I'm sorry, but what brewery in its right mind would do this? Part of going to a brewery is to sit and enjoy the beer, have a friendly knowledgable staff and be a place where you can relax and have a good conversation. The Brooklyn Brewery is a place you can go to wait in a long line, to be served by an asshole, and drink in a crowded hall with hundreds of your screaming best friends. MC, we will show you how it's done the next time you are here in Denver town.

PINK ELEPHANTS!

Hangin out on the High Line

     Overall, you can do NYC, see plenty, and experience a lot if you know how it's done. I'm just so thankful I got to be with my friends to share in the excitement!

Love on the Brooklyn Bridge

 Until next time happy travelers!
-M

    Visit my new blog! https://adventuresoffoxintheforest.wordpress.com/ for more adventure and travel ideas!
 
Wow do I have a lot going on. I've been meaning to write an update and explain a few projects I've been working on for a long time now, but lots has been put on hold. We've recently purchased a house and are getting ready to move, again. We've also had both sets of parents visit, been out of town, in town, then out of town. Needless to say I haven't caught a break for some time.

     However, I did get a chance to go back to the wonderful New York state and visit my college friends in NYC. I was originally going to keep this post a bit less personal, and describe all of the fun and fabulous things you can do in NYC for next to nothing. We may be employed but we are still budget-conscious people and NYC can rip a large hole in your wallet, quickly.

   Before I get started though, I do want to make an announcement. As of last Wednesday MB and are officially engaged!!! We've been together for 6 and a half years, so many of my friends have let me know "It's about time!" I was COMPLETELY surprised and the timing couldn't be more perfect. We were leaving the next day to go and see our college friends who have been around since we met. It was really special to have the opportunity to tell everyone in person. We are plenty busy right now, so I'll save wedding posts for another time. And yes, the ring is absolutely beautiful!

Hello Beautiful

     First I'll start off by saying that it is impossible to see all of New York in a few short days. Your best bet is to pick a few things you absolutely must do, and then remember to take some time for the unexpected things. One of the best things you can do in New York is grab street food or cheap eats somewhere (use Yelp!), find a nice place to sit, and people watch. Another important thing, like any big city, NYC is filled with overly-touristy areas. I've seen a lot of New York over the years and I tend to avoid areas that are bursting at the seams with tourists and its following of hawkers. With that being said, we did do touristy things, but we avoided Time Square like the plague. Also, take advantage of the public transportation. It isn't as cheap as it is in places like Asia, but avoiding cabs will save you a lot of money. Obviously, if you are a woman traveling alone, you will want to be careful.

There be land!

Being a Good American
     Probably the most touristy thing we did was go to Ground Zero and the World Trade Memorial. Everyone has a story from that day and I wanted to see what it looks like today. I'll admit, it was a bit of a CF. There is a LOT of construction going on and you go through security like you are at an airport. It's also a bit strange, seeing a place that held so much pain, for so many people around the world being used as a site for people to snap pictures of their children smiling in front of something they weren't even around to witness. However, there were people there from all over the world. Women in saris, French speaking tour guides, and groups of Japanese businessmen. The memorial itself is quite lovely, simple and moving. However the Caltrava disaster surrounding the memorial is a bit of an eyesore. Although it's still under construction, I really think the project doesn't need to be some grand architectural gesture, yet a simple reminder of the sacrifices made that day. Don't take my word for it, go see for yourself. This attraction is free, although there is a suggested donation. Don't feel bad not paying, the donation box was stuffed to the brim and clearly, if they are building a multi-billion dollar complex around the thing then I would question where that money is actually going.

Some time for reflection

Art Art Everywhere
     One of my favorite things I did whilst wandering the streets of the Big Apple was to visit the High Line. This is also a free activity and it is a beautiful park created from an abandoned above ground railway. Honestly one of the best architectural and landscape projects I have ever seen, and the building around the main section (in Chelsea) make a great backdrop to the whole experience. There is a great place to watch the sunset over Jersey, although we didn't have time to do this. It's also worth it to wander around Chelsea. If you're an art lover, it's free to go into most of the galleries and it's a really fun neighborhood.

Chelsea from above

Urban + Green + Art = Highline Love

A lady tending to her flock

Getting Freaky in the LES
     One of my favorite sections of the city is the Lower East Side, or the LES (or "lez" as I like to call it). I've got some friends who call this slice of heaven home and it's a wonderful spot to wander around. Coffee shops, bars, and small unique shops litter the landscape here. Grab a cup of joe and watch people pass by. There are also a good number of little slot parks and community gardens sprinkling the landscape. Just across the main drag is China Town. Another thing MB and I have a thing for is visiting the China Town in any major city. I would HIGHLY recommend stopping into a hole-in-the-wall noodle joint called Spicy Village. For about $6 you can get a delicious bowl of hand-pulled Szechwan noodles, yummy!!

Reuniting with friends in the LES

Where Brooklyn At?
     We spent a lot of time in Brooklyn. Many of my friends live there and Brooklyn has a very different feel from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. A great thing to do is to walk the Brooklyn Bridge. Again, this is free and the views are incredible. This is another touristy thing, but the locals often partake in this too. You can easily make your way to DUMBO and wander around the newly re-vitalized waterfront area. Fantastic views of Manhattan and some (if not the) best pizza in the city is located nearby at Juilana's. Expect a long wait, but again, the pizza is reasonably priced and absolutely amazing.

Eat this!

Here!

A bridge with a view

      Another great, cheap, way to see some more great waterfront views would be to take the water taxi from the DUMBO to Williamsburg. Now it wouldn't be appropriate to talk about Brooklyn without mentioning hipsters. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against hipsterism - don't lie to yourself, we all have a little hipster in us - but I am against people dressing or acting a certain way in a desperate attempt for attention (don't believe me? direct your attention here). But whatever, self-expression makes for epic people watching and this is the place to do it. The street art around around these parts is also impressive and overall I like Brooklyn, but I can do without the public furry party. Williamsburg is also, ironically (but if you know about city development not really) home to some of NYC's most rapidly growing and expensive real estate. The juxtaposition of those dressed like they just walked out of Comic Con and multi-million dollar apartment buildings is something you should see to believe. Again, the views are free (and wonderful). If you are lucky enough, and around during the summer there is a great small-business outdoor food market called Smorgasbord that is worth checking out. Some give out free samples, and smells are always free. Brooklyn offers a small(er) city feel in an infinite metropolis, which is nice to see.

Waterfront

Beautiful day for some time on the water

Brooklyn Brewery - save your time and money, buy it at a store
   Now if you know MB and I you know that we cannot visit a place without finding the local brewery and giving it a whirl. We were with my friend MC and he happens to be a virgin to the whole brewery culture, so we decided no trip to Brooklyn would be right without a visit to the famous Brooklyn Brewery. Boy were we wrong. Seriously save your money and time. Apparently the beer isn't even really brewed there anymore and the whole thing is a scam. Nothing about it gives it that authentic great place to sit and have a beer. First, they make you buy these stupid tokens, then the corral you into this massive line where one, maybe two people are serving beer. The bartenders are dead as doorknobs and extremely unfriendly to a point where I question what they actually know about their beer. Not to mention, they give you the beer in plastic cups. I'm sorry, but what brewery in its right mind would do this? Part of going to a brewery is to sit and enjoy the beer, have a friendly knowledgable staff and be a place where you can relax and have a good conversation. The Brooklyn Brewery is a place you can go to wait in a long line, to be served by an asshole, and drink in a crowded hall with hundreds of your screaming best friends. MC, we will show you how it's done the next time you are here in Denver town.

PINK ELEPHANTS!

Hangin out on the High Line

     Overall, you can do NYC, see plenty, and experience a lot if you know how it's done. I'm just so thankful I got to be with my friends to share in the excitement!

Love on the Brooklyn Bridge

 Until next time happy travelers!
-M

    Visit my new blog! https://adventuresoffoxintheforest.wordpress.com/ for more adventure and travel ideas!
 
Wow do I have a lot going on. I've been meaning to write an update and explain a few projects I've been working on for a long time now, but lots has been put on hold. We've recently purchased a house and are getting ready to move, again. We've also had both sets of parents visit, been out of town, in town, then out of town. Needless to say I haven't caught a break for some time.

     However, I did get a chance to go back to the wonderful New York state and visit my college friends in NYC. I was originally going to keep this post a bit less personal, and describe all of the fun and fabulous things you can do in NYC for next to nothing. We may be employed but we are still budget-conscious people and NYC can rip a large hole in your wallet, quickly.

   Before I get started though, I do want to make an announcement. As of last Wednesday MB and are officially engaged!!! We've been together for 6 and a half years, so many of my friends have let me know "It's about time!" I was COMPLETELY surprised and the timing couldn't be more perfect. We were leaving the next day to go and see our college friends who have been around since we met. It was really special to have the opportunity to tell everyone in person. We are plenty busy right now, so I'll save wedding posts for another time. And yes, the ring is absolutely beautiful!

Hello Beautiful

     First I'll start off by saying that it is impossible to see all of New York in a few short days. Your best bet is to pick a few things you absolutely must do, and then remember to take some time for the unexpected things. One of the best things you can do in New York is grab street food or cheap eats somewhere (use Yelp!), find a nice place to sit, and people watch. Another important thing, like any big city, NYC is filled with overly-touristy areas. I've seen a lot of New York over the years and I tend to avoid areas that are bursting at the seams with tourists and its following of hawkers. With that being said, we did do touristy things, but we avoided Time Square like the plague. Also, take advantage of the public transportation. It isn't as cheap as it is in places like Asia, but avoiding cabs will save you a lot of money. Obviously, if you are a woman traveling alone, you will want to be careful.

There be land!

Being a Good American
     Probably the most touristy thing we did was go to Ground Zero and the World Trade Memorial. Everyone has a story from that day and I wanted to see what it looks like today. I'll admit, it was a bit of a CF. There is a LOT of construction going on and you go through security like you are at an airport. It's also a bit strange, seeing a place that held so much pain, for so many people around the world being used as a site for people to snap pictures of their children smiling in front of something they weren't even around to witness. However, there were people there from all over the world. Women in saris, French speaking tour guides, and groups of Japanese businessmen. The memorial itself is quite lovely, simple and moving. However the Caltrava disaster surrounding the memorial is a bit of an eyesore. Although it's still under construction, I really think the project doesn't need to be some grand architectural gesture, yet a simple reminder of the sacrifices made that day. Don't take my word for it, go see for yourself. This attraction is free, although there is a suggested donation. Don't feel bad not paying, the donation box was stuffed to the brim and clearly, if they are building a multi-billion dollar complex around the thing then I would question where that money is actually going.

Some time for reflection

Art Art Everywhere
     One of my favorite things I did whilst wandering the streets of the Big Apple was to visit the High Line. This is also a free activity and it is a beautiful park created from an abandoned above ground railway. Honestly one of the best architectural and landscape projects I have ever seen, and the building around the main section (in Chelsea) make a great backdrop to the whole experience. There is a great place to watch the sunset over Jersey, although we didn't have time to do this. It's also worth it to wander around Chelsea. If you're an art lover, it's free to go into most of the galleries and it's a really fun neighborhood.

Chelsea from above

Urban + Green + Art = Highline Love

A lady tending to her flock

Getting Freaky in the LES
     One of my favorite sections of the city is the Lower East Side, or the LES (or "lez" as I like to call it). I've got some friends who call this slice of heaven home and it's a wonderful spot to wander around. Coffee shops, bars, and small unique shops litter the landscape here. Grab a cup of joe and watch people pass by. There are also a good number of little slot parks and community gardens sprinkling the landscape. Just across the main drag is China Town. Another thing MB and I have a thing for is visiting the China Town in any major city. I would HIGHLY recommend stopping into a hole-in-the-wall noodle joint called Spicy Village. For about $6 you can get a delicious bowl of hand-pulled Szechwan noodles, yummy!!

Reuniting with friends in the LES

Where Brooklyn At?
     We spent a lot of time in Brooklyn. Many of my friends live there and Brooklyn has a very different feel from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. A great thing to do is to walk the Brooklyn Bridge. Again, this is free and the views are incredible. This is another touristy thing, but the locals often partake in this too. You can easily make your way to DUMBO and wander around the newly re-vitalized waterfront area. Fantastic views of Manhattan and some (if not the) best pizza in the city is located nearby at Juilana's. Expect a long wait, but again, the pizza is reasonably priced and absolutely amazing.

Eat this!

Here!

A bridge with a view

      Another great, cheap, way to see some more great waterfront views would be to take the water taxi from the DUMBO to Williamsburg. Now it wouldn't be appropriate to talk about Brooklyn without mentioning hipsters. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against hipsterism - don't lie to yourself, we all have a little hipster in us - but I am against people dressing or acting a certain way in a desperate attempt for attention (don't believe me? direct your attention here). But whatever, self-expression makes for epic people watching and this is the place to do it. The street art around around these parts is also impressive and overall I like Brooklyn, but I can do without the public furry party. Williamsburg is also, ironically (but if you know about city development not really) home to some of NYC's most rapidly growing and expensive real estate. The juxtaposition of those dressed like they just walked out of Comic Con and multi-million dollar apartment buildings is something you should see to believe. Again, the views are free (and wonderful). If you are lucky enough, and around during the summer there is a great small-business outdoor food market called Smorgasbord that is worth checking out. Some give out free samples, and smells are always free. Brooklyn offers a small(er) city feel in an infinite metropolis, which is nice to see.

Waterfront

Beautiful day for some time on the water

Brooklyn Brewery - save your time and money, buy it at a store
   Now if you know MB and I you know that we cannot visit a place without finding the local brewery and giving it a whirl. We were with my friend MC and he happens to be a virgin to the whole brewery culture, so we decided no trip to Brooklyn would be right without a visit to the famous Brooklyn Brewery. Boy were we wrong. Seriously save your money and time. Apparently the beer isn't even really brewed there anymore and the whole thing is a scam. Nothing about it gives it that authentic great place to sit and have a beer. First, they make you buy these stupid tokens, then the corral you into this massive line where one, maybe two people are serving beer. The bartenders are dead as doorknobs and extremely unfriendly to a point where I question what they actually know about their beer. Not to mention, they give you the beer in plastic cups. I'm sorry, but what brewery in its right mind would do this? Part of going to a brewery is to sit and enjoy the beer, have a friendly knowledgable staff and be a place where you can relax and have a good conversation. The Brooklyn Brewery is a place you can go to wait in a long line, to be served by an asshole, and drink in a crowded hall with hundreds of your screaming best friends. MC, we will show you how it's done the next time you are here in Denver town.

PINK ELEPHANTS!

Hangin out on the High Line

     Overall, you can do NYC, see plenty, and experience a lot if you know how it's done. I'm just so thankful I got to be with my friends to share in the excitement!

Love on the Brooklyn Bridge

 Until next time happy travelers!
-M