Let’s do it
We definitely didn’t need an alarm that morning. I mean, waking up to the open view of those enormous skyscrapers in the heart of Manhattan, my entire universe inside me started playing emotional games. I was winning! Or how I like to say: “I scored for sure!”Â
“Okay, let’s go,” my man said gently to me.
“What do you mean, ‘let’s go’? I need my sip of coffee!”
“Oh silly, we’re in your favorite place on earth. I’ll find you some coffee.”
Only one thing was on our open schedule that day. 7PM Broadway Show! We have tickets for Chicago!
First, we were starving. We grabbed breakfast at the hotel. It was pricey but worth it —bacon & eggs, croissants, yogurt, granola, fruits, French toast, etc. A classy American breakfast with a fancy touch.
It was March, and we were fortunate with the weather. I’m always concerned about the weather in the States. Should I bring that jacket? Do I need socks? Maybe it’s too windy; I should wear a hat. Uff, so complicated! Yeah, it’s complicated every single time since I never quite learned what to wear or how to dress appropriately. (Well, maybe I did, but knowing me, I probably didn’t.)
Soho
“Babe, I want to go to Soho and get something! I need it!”
We quickly jumped on the subway and found ourselves in Soho. Millions of colors, well-known brands, and restaurants were all around us.
We’re foodies, especially my man. He’s always the one to find a good place to eat. He just knows. He has a sense for it. If he thinks it’s worth it, we’re already at the table, ordering.
That day, we were craving Thai food, and right on the corner, there was a tiny Thai restaurant, Lan Larb Chiang Mai. I wasn’t very hungry, but I could always have a little snack while I’m there. We almost always share our food—it’s more fun and easier to try a variety of dishes. We ordered a beef mint salad and panko shrimp. I’ve tried many Thai places before, but the salads here had a distinct, and I must say, extremely fresh taste. We absolutely loved it
Knowing me, it was time for coffee! Citizen of Soho, a Breakfast Restaurant & Café, was the closest choice. I went with the iced matcha latte and didn’t regret it.
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“Babe, what’s the next step? We still have plenty of time to go around before the show.”
Exactly what I needed. New York is perfect for walking. That day we made it more then 30k steps.  All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes, (I wore my boots ) and you’re set. It’s like someone designed the Big Apple just for me.
Central Park
But let’s just say! I did learn one important lesson. The weather in California is unpredictable. Summer doesn’t guarantee super-hot temperatures throughout the day—it’s just not like Croatia. Nights here can be cold. And Mark Twain was absolutely right when he said that the coldest winter, he ever experienced was summer in San Francisco. That’s more than true.Â
So, I brought my red leather jacket (borrowed from my mom—she’s just so stylish, adorable! I love my mom, and it’s tough being far away from her, but if I can borrow clothes from her, I’m satisfied—well, at least with something, right?)
We spent two beautiful and peaceful hours at Central Park. The blooming season had just begun, so spring was in the air all around us. Kids were running about, some people were jogging, others had just finished meetings and needed a break. Seniors were enjoying the sunny day, and there was food, drinks, and small talk filling the relaxed atmosphere. Yeah, I know it sounds like the perfect place on earth, but maybe that’s what New York really is!
Superior Customer Service
Next stop was 9/11. Words are unnecessary. I have nothing to say. The fountains are more than amazing. A must-see place!
Walking further, we found ourselves at Battery Park. I caught sight of the Statue of Liberty, snapped a few photos, and we continued toward the Financial District and Wall Street.
As the clock was ticking, we hopped on the subway and headed back to the Times Square area. It was time to go watch Chicago. Finally! I was excited while Marko, my man, was very tired.
Summing it all up, if you’re not a planner, New York is perfect for you to visit—and who knows, maybe even live there. You just must surrender and let the city guide you. In the end, not having a plan was the perfect plan.
For the rest of the night and what we did the next day, read about it in Part III!
