June 6th, 2023

KRYSTAL JANE

After working at DisneyWorld in Florida for 6 months i decided i needed a vacation, heres a look into my very first trip to the BIG APPLE, when a life-long dream suddenly becomes reality.

While on the Disney College program I met my platonic soulmate and now best friend who happens to live in Connecticut, which is conveniently an hour-ish train ride from New York City. After her program ended we couldn’t spend more than a few weeks apart and I was so excited to finally be able to see her.

Not only was I shown around NYC, but also places closer to her hometown. We visited New Haven (Yale area), going into the stores was so fun and walking the streets of the Yale buildings was beautiful. The vibe you get here is so different and makes you feel as though you’re in a completely different place. I truly did not realise just how big Yale is.

We got ice-cream at Milkcraft which is a cute little ice cream store on the corner. I got their signature blue cookie butter ice-cream in a bubble cone which was delicious. The texture is so unique, and I would recommend stopping in here if you are in the area.

Summit One Vanderbilt, New York City

Yale, New Haven

When it was time to visit NYC, we took the train and ended up right in Grand Central Terminal. I felt like I was in all of the Rom-Com movies I watched growing up back home in New Zealand, except I was finally there myself.

We went on a Tuesday at midday and crowds weren’t too big, although they say there are time limits for each room you can spend however long you like, just be respectful of others.

Once we stepped outside we happened to be directly outside of Summit one. I cannot express enough how much you need to visit this if you are in NYC. Nothing will ever beat the views from that high up, not only does it have photo opportunities and great lighting, but each room is a different experience and you never get bored.

Unfortunately I did not visit Central park but I did visit Bryant park. We ate at the ‘The Porch’ which was located between the buildings of New York City, with beautiful trees and people enjoying each others company. This was a great vibe all around and one of the highlights of my trip to spend quality time with my companions in this down to earth area.

We explored the streets of NYC and stopped in at Little Italy Pizza and got a large slice. This was so good, with a crispy crust and stringy cheese it was a great “pick me up” for our long walk.

While waiting for our sunset cruise we walked Pier 15 to kill time and the shops were so unique. There was a barbie cafe (Reservation only) which was all pink with themed foods. The antique book store with two floors was an entire vibe in itself and helped as a calm space to wind down for a bit, and the store next door had some amazing rings and clothes. I would highly recommend checking them or their instagram out (@mureandgrand).

The ‘funny face bakery’ was my favourite stop and made my friends and I laugh. The unique cookies in here provide something for everyone. My best friend and i got a “BITCH, you’re my soulmate” heart cookie to share and not only is it cute, it tastes good!

McNally Jackson Books, Seaport

Sunset Cruise, NYC

Next came the sunset cruise, which was gorgeous. Despite the smoke covering a lot of the view, we were still able to see the city from a different point of view, not on land.

Part of the experience included stopping under the Statue Of Liberty which offered a very up close and personal experience. They ensured to have a prolonged stop in-front of her to get that perfect photo for the gram. I would recommend doing the cruise over going inside the Statue Of Liberty as it feels more personal and private, and way less crowded.

Make sure you bring some sort of cover up for this trip, the wind is a little harsh and you will get cold.

We ended the night at Watermark bar and restaurant which has waterfront dining (located conveniently at the doc) and it had amazing food and a great social night life. Most of us got burgers/sliders or a salad. I got the crispy chicken sliders and they were delicious, providing just enough to fill me but not make me feel heavy.

Not only was the food amazing but the beverages were unique and offered a great addition to your meal. My tables drinks included the ‘Kiwi West’ and ‘Blue Lagoon’, both well themed and tasty.

I would recommend this place if you are looking for a middleman between a relaxing and party environment.

Watermark Bar and Restaurant, New York

I love you guys.

To commemorate the trip my best friend, her sister and I decided to get matching tattoos.

It is a sweet little postage stamp with the Empire State Building inside, located on our forearms. They couldn’t have come out any cuter and i’m so happy to have something to remember my first ever time in NYC.

We actually designed this on ‘Picsart’ the night before we went, and then got them the day after we got back. This definitely sums up the 3 of us and how genuine we take the term ‘YOLO’.

Overall the trip was amazing, it offered a great experience and I am feening to go back. Im hoping to make it back right before my program ends, around Christmas time. Seeing New York City all festive will genuinely be the cherry on top. I’ll also have my first ever thanksgiving with my best friend and her family.

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