New York, just like I pictured it!

Better than we pictured it, in fact.

First, there's the weather. It was 69 degrees when we arrived in the city, and after a long, cold, snowy winter, that alone was enough to lift our spirits. We arrived at our inn, got settled, and since we were hungry (when are we ever not hungry when we're traveling?), we wandered a couple of blocks to Tia Pol for some truly wonderful tapas.

Almejas al vino - cockles in garlic and white wine. (The tiniest clams I nave ever eaten, but what big flavor!) Empanadas with bits of savory pork. Patatas bravas - potatoes with spicy aioli. Good enough that with a thousand choices in NYC, we'll be going back for more. Bocata de lomo adobado - a marinated pork loin, piquillo pepper and tetilla cheese sandwich.

It was the perfect meal after a long drive. And a small selection of good Spanish wines to be had by the glass made the meal complete.

We asked the waitress what we ought to do next, it being our first night in the city. She replied, "Oh, you should walk the High Line."

The High Line is an old elevated rail line that has been converted into a walkway garden. 

On a warm night in March, as we wandered along enjoying the view of the sunset over New Jersey, we decided it was a spectacularly good idea.

It's invigorating to be in a city with as much energy, vitality, and variety as New York. We love hearing the mix of languages that are spoken on the street and seeing the mix of cultures reflected in the shops and restaurants.

 

It's also good to be in a city that is blue enough that this can be a billboard. We like this place. (Have we already said that?)

 

So, after a bit of good Irish Whiskey in honor of St. Patrick and an even better espresso, it's back to the inn to make ready for tomorrow.

Life is good.

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[Jessie]

Living vicariously....