NYC here we come!

Monday morning kicked off with an early 3.00am wake up to ensure we did not miss our 4.50am bus which departed from L’Enfant Plaza on route to Dulles International Airport. With both mobile phones out of action it was difficult to book a taxi via Skype. The upshot of this was about a forty-five minute wait until the taxi company could confirm our pick-up address. Thankfully John and I made it to L’Enfant Plaza with ten minutes to spare. The 5A Dulles bus was on time and things were looking good for a 5.45am arrival at the airport.

As we travelled out of the city limits, we noticed a heavy fog had settled over the landscape. By the time we arrived at the airport the fog had not lifted so we anticipated a delay. To our surprise we moved through check-in and security with such ease. After previous experiences with TSA I’m so glad we did. Then, despite the fog, we couldn’t believe our eyes all flights were on schedule to depart. It was a bit surreal boarding an aircraft blanketed by fog.

Again our flight experience with Jet Blue was enjoyable. Free television, good snacks and friendly flight attendants and best of all, it was a trouble-free flight to NYC. We arrived at JFK Airport around 8.30 am, collected our bags and made our way to the AirTrain to catch an express train from Jamaica Station to Penn Station. The cost is a little more than the ‘A’ train but you arrive in Manhattan within about 30 minutes, so I would highly recommend it.

In grand style with four bags and carry-on in tow, we exited Penn Station and I’ll never forget the look of amazement on John’s face. It was a magical moment stepping out of the subway into the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. We then headed down to West 31 Street to our accommodation.

The Urban Oasis did not disappoint. We received a friendly welcome and the location is excellent. The hostel which is more like an apartment is only two blocks from the Empire State Building. Also, the rooms are spacious and clean, and the facilities are the best I’ve ever seen for the price.

The next eleven days in NYC is going to be a voyage of discovery folks! So set your compass for unchartered waters. The following music video by Alicia Keys ‘Empire State of Mind’ sums up our excitement of being here.

Bye for now,
Mark