The first night in our Best Western Plus Robert Treat Hotel in Newark It was very pleasant and we started the day feeling incredibly refreshed! Unfortunately, breakfast dampened our spirits a bit. It was incredibly crowded because the breakfast room was far too small and the staff couldn't keep up with restocking everything. But oh well, we quickly ate something and headed off towards New York City.
World Trade Center Memorial
We took the PATH train from Newark Penn Station to the World Trade Center in just 20 minutes. It's highly recommended as a fast and affordable way to get to Manhattan.
First, we went to the World Trade Center Memorial. We got our tickets at the Visitor Center, not directly at the memorial entrance, because the line wasn't as long there. Due to the construction all around, you unfortunately still have to go through airport-style security checks: putting bags on the conveyor belt, taking off jackets, removing jewelry, and taking cell phones out of pockets. Well, it's understandable with the crowds, since you're walking right past the construction sites, and Americans are just cautious. Once the construction is finished, all these checks are supposed to be lifted, and you can approach as you please. The memorial is very stylishly designed. The waterfalls are a brilliant idea because you can't see where the water falls from any given vantage point. This really conveys that feeling of bottomlessness. Truly impressive and also heartbreaking at the same time. What really touched us was that the memorial staff placed a white rose next to the name of the person who would have had their birthday that day. The grief is still palpable, and we will remember it for a long time to come!
Hudson River
Afterwards, we went to the Hudson River, to a small marina with a sailing school. You wouldn't expect to find that here in the middle of Manhattan. Very idyllic!
Trinity Church
Further along our route was Trinity Church, which, despite its proximity to the Twin Towers, remained untouched during the September 11 attacks. Such a beautiful church right in the heart of New York City—truly amazing! We arrived just in time for Mass; it was a very moving experience!
Off to Brooklyn!
After that, we walked a bit along Wall Street and took the subway towards Brooklyn. Just one stop and we were in one of the most beautiful, leafy residential areas in New York. Walking along the promenade, we had an incredible view of Manhattan… WOW.
Brooklyn Bridge, New York by Gehry and New York City Hall
We walked back in style across the Brooklyn Bridge, which is absolutely the right thing to do; everyone visiting New York should do it. What a feeling! We also passed Frank Gehry's skyscraper. It's the only building in Manhattan that's entirely residential. I had expected a bit more, but it still stands out among all the other generic skyscrapers. A true Frank Gehry, indeed. ;) Afterwards, we walked to New York City Hall, and I have to say it's rather unassuming compared to the rest of the city, but very beautiful. The park in front of it is highly recommended, with its extraordinary art.
South Street Seaport
Next, we went to the South Street Seaport, which was unfortunately closed. Not only that, but we got the impression it wouldn't be reopening. Everything looked deserted, and some shops had moved elsewhere. A real shame, but from there we had another great view of the Brooklyn Bridge. Afterward, we went to the Bull on Wall Street, where I couldn't get a decent picture. Strangers were constantly getting in the way; the place was completely overcrowded.
„Headquarters“ of the MIB
At Battery Park, which was under construction at the time, stands the entrance to the MIB (Men in Black) "headquarters." Oh man, a dream come true! I've always wanted to go there, especially since I learned in a lecture that the entrance Agent K always goes into is actually the entrance to the Brooklyn car tunnel. :D
Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island
After finding another cache and meeting some nice German geocachers with whom we exchanged a few hints for other caches, we took the Staten Island Ferry across to Staten Island. What a view of Manhattan from the ferry! You just have to be quick enough and stand at the very back of the ship. The ferry also took us quite close to the Statue of Liberty. Unfortunately, it was closed due to a strike during our visit.
9/11 Memorial
Unfortunately, it was a bit hazy, and the city wasn't visible as well from Staten Island. On Staten Island, we visited the 9/11 Memorial and then went back to Manhattan. We then took the PATH train back to Newark and on the way to... hotel We got something for dinner. A very running-intensive and really hot day, but it was worth it!
Are you still looking for a suitable hotel in New York?
You can find a hotel to suit your budget via various online travel agencies such as Agoda, Booking.com, ebookers.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, lastminute.com, otel.com or Venere.com.
New York City Travel Guide
  | For the perfect city trip to New York City we recommend this travel guideHere you'll find not only a detailed city map, but also plenty of information on all the major sights. Explore New York in all its facets. |
