Savoring The City: World Trade Center
Bonjour! Yesterday, my beau and I embarked on a partial exploration of the Financial District, specifically World Trade Center area, that’s nearby — about 1 mile from where we live. It’s just a 4 minute train ride away!
Oculus in front of One World Trace Center in New York City, Financial District
However, on this particular day we made the decision to escape the mayhem of the weekend PATH train and opt for the serenity of the NY Waterway ferry. If you've ever braved the PATH on weekends, you know the struggle – overcrowded platforms, fewer trains, and the constant fear of getting pushed accidentally onto the tracks. Trust me, the ferry might run less frequently, but the peaceful ride across the river is a welcome respite from the madness of PATH. I’ve already been publicly berated for daring to squeeze onto a packed train. I had to endure the man who chasticed me in tight proximity for 4 minutes. Longest, most panic enduced ride of my life. And, missed a train that I couldn’t squeeze onto while on the way to a photoshoot. Grrrr. Please get your act together, PATH. Weekdays you’re wonderful but on weekends you’re an absolute disaster.
Disembarking at the Brookfield station, we found ourselves right along the Hudson River Waterfront Greenway that runs all along the west side of Manhattan. If you were to go straight, you would run right into Brookfield Place, a luxury mall. But, if you turn left onto the Walkway, you will encounter the Irish Hunger Memorial, a thoughtful oasis in the city that pays a solemn tribute to those affected by the devastating Irish famine. New York City truly has a bit of everything.
We then wandered over to check out Brookfield Place and decided to have lunch at Liberty Bistro. It’s hard to pass up a French bistro overlooking the Hudson River! We had a delightful lunch with a Mediterranean salad w/ chicken paillard for me and Croque Monsieur for my beau. This was a pretty decent find for me since the financial district isn’t really known for great dining options, unfortunately. And, though it’s a mall restaurant, it’s quite nice, with a hip looking interior that was lively at 1pm on a Saturday and a nice patio dining option. We had opted for the patio.
We continued our journey towards the World Trade Center area, but made our way there via the underground tunnel that pops you out inside the Oculus, where we had a moment of retail therapy for my guy at John Varvatos. Love his styles for men!
Afterwards, we emerged onto street level and stumbled upon a Greek Orthodox Church that seemed oddly out of place on a corner there. We were curious so we popped inside and took a few photos. It was a really unique little space! They had an intriguing service listed for "Pareklisis: prayers for Peace in the World & Healing of Body & Soul." Though not religious, the thought of a moment of quiet reflection on these topics is enticing.
I couldn’t help but notice that the tulips are still blooming here, just like in Amsterdam, where we just returned from!
And with a final stop at Century 21 to satisfy my curiosity about the renowned discounted designer shopping designation. It seemed like a higher end Marshals or TJ Max to me. Pretty cool.
Our adventure culminated with the coolest public art display outside Oculus: "A Wild Life For Wildlife" by Gillie and Marc. This interactive public art exhibit captivated both locals and tourists alike. From patiently waiting in line to strike a pose with the playful sculptures, to marveling at the intricate details, it was a testament to the power of art to unite. You may recognize the theme by having seen other similar works by Gillie and Mark around the world. I loved seeing their Paparazzi Dogs in San Francisco. Definitely pay this exhibit a visit if you are in NYC.
Until next time, keep wandering, keep discovering, and never stop exploring.
