Journey to the Lost Borough

It all started last month when I was casually skimming the internet during my "morning scroll" (you know, laying in bed and scrolling through your phone for posts or articles you missed while sleeping). I came upon an article about a second Diary Queen location opening on 14th Street in Manhattan. "Second?" I thought out loud. "Where is this first location mysteriously located?" I read further and there it was: Staten Island. I know what you're all thinking. "Well, that doesn't really count as a NYC location, does it?" My sentiments exactly! But, those are the boundaries of our great city and we must abide by them.

I couldn't get the thought of a hot fudge sundae out of my head. And because the Manhattan location wouldn't open for another week, I knew what I had to do. Make a pilgrimage to Staten Island. So I packed my bag, kissed my dogs, waved goodbye to the townspeople and started on my journey to the mysterious island. Because isn't that what summer is all about? Crazy little adventures. When else during the year can you travel great distances for ice cream? It is the perfect excuse to get out there and explore.

I made my way to the very tip of the Manhattan and was greeted by a huge "can't-miss-it-if-you-tried" ferry terminal. Maybe it was the giant letters spelling out "Staten Island". The FREE (yes, free) ferry departs every 20 or 30-minutes in each direction. Don't let the hoards of people fool you, there was plenty of space on the giant ferry boats, no need to squeeze next to obnoxious tourists. Instead, I found a quiet window seat and enjoyed the beautiful vista.  I don't care how long you've lived in this city, the views of downtown Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty are always breathtaking. Honestly, it was worth the trip alone.

After 20 or so minutes of (thankfully) smooth sailing, I arrived at St. George Terminal in Staten Island. As I stepped out into the terminal, there it was, shining like a beacon: Dairy Queen.

I made it. Like seeing an old friend again after a long absence, I was nervous at first. But, as soon as I reached that counter, it was second nature: "Medium hot fudge sundae, please." Just as delicious as I remembered.

My journey could have ended there, I mean I did reach the promised land and claim my reward. However, I thought that wouldn't really be fair to my readers. So I decided to be adventurous and explore these parts unknown.  Luckily, some fun attractions are located right outside the ferry terminal.

The terminal's waterfront promenade is the perfect place to sit and stare at beautiful downtown Manhattan. Walk a little further down the promenade and you'll find the Island's 9/11 Memorial, Postcards. The sculpture, built in 2004, is a tribute to those who died in the attacks. Turn around and you'll see the stadium for the Staten Island Yankees, the popular minor league baseball team. Can't afford a trip to see the Bombers in the Bronx? Enjoy a great day of baseball here and maybe you'll see the next great Yankee player (Robinson Cano and Brett Gardner were SI Yankees before hitting it big).

Summer in NYC is all about the little adventures. The best part is, you never know where they will lead you! Even if you're not a fan of Dairy Queen (I shudder to think), hop on the SI ferry and explore the borough that is oft-forgotten. From the Staten Island Zoo to the beaches of the South Shore, you will definitely find an adventure worth taking.

The Search for the Red Spoon

Growing up in New Jersey, there were always three things I could count on in the summer: riding my bike well into the evening hours, catching lightning bugs in my grandparents' backyard, and enjoying many of these...

That red spoon. As a kid, it was the symbol of a perfect summer evening. On those warm breezy nights, I couldn't wait to ride my bike or walk with the family to Dairy Queen. It was what I looked forward to the whole day. "Maybe we can get Dairy Queen tonight," I hoped. Luckily, it was never too hard to convince my family.

As a teenager, the joy of ordering a medium hot fudge sundae (same thing every time) definitely did not wane. Summer nights, driving around town with friends, usually ended up at DQ. And now as an adult, living in NYC, I needed to find that red spoon. I needed to order that medium hot fudge sundae once again.

Well, it's not as easy as it sounds. Up until recently, this elusive red spoon could only be found in one NYC location. Can you guess where? Stay tuned for my next post and I will share the tale of my paramount journey.

Until then, let me know some of your favorite summer memories, as a kid or as an adult. Everyone has a summer story to share!

Beyond NY(Sea)

Okay, I know I am a few days late but, it's officially SUMMER!  And new season, new font (at least for this post.) Let's all take a few seconds to jump around in excitement. Done? Good, because we really have a lot of activities left to cram in. With only three short months left until the first leaves begin to fall, lets take a short quiz...

Question 1: When you think of summer you think of what? 

Beaches! Yes, of course beaches. The unofficial symbol of summer.

Question 2: And when you think of New York City, you think of what?
I'd venture to guess that none of you said beaches. 

And why would you? NYC may be world-famous for a lot of things but, its beaches certainly don't have the best reputations. So, instead of wading through the sewage in the Rockaways, let's take a trip to the not-so-far east... 

LONG BEACH

Recently voted the cleanest beach in the Northeast, Long Beach features a beautiful two-mile stretch of soft sand, blue water and a brand new boardwalk (built after the destruction from Superstorm Sandy). Less than an hour from midtown (you read that correctly), Long Beach is the most convenient (and $economically friendly$) beach outside the five boroughs. It is so close to NYC, that I can draw a map for you right now:

         NEW | MAN | QUE |
         JER | HAT | ENS |

         SEY | TAN | BRO | LOOONG ISLAND
                     OOK |
                     LYN |  *LONG BEACH* 

 
No car? No problem. The LIRR offers round-trip tickets for just $22 from Manhattan's Penn Station. Worried about getting lost on the train? Below are the incredibly confusing directions from Penn Station. Are you ready? You might want to get a pen.

Step 1: Get on the LONG BEACH line at Penn Station.

Step 2: Get off the train at LONG BEACH.

I know, that was challenging. You may want to do a dry-run the day before.

But all kidding aside, everyone deserves a beach day this summer, even us New Yorkers! And if you're like me, you will never even dip a toe in any of the rivers. So, head out to Long Beach from some genuine surf and sand. It's clean, close, and cheap! You can't ask for much more than that.

The 6 Best Smorgasburg Food Vendors

Do you ever wish that all of New York's diverse and eclectic food choices were offered in one place? A one-stop-shop to satisfy all your foodie cravings? Well, you're in luck. Smorgasburg, Brooklyn Flea's all-food market, offers pretty much every type of food you can dream of. From Jamaican to Indian, Smorgasburg's vendors cement NYC's place as the world's best foodie melting pot.

The vacant lot on the Williamsburg waterfront (Saturdays in Williamsburg, Sundays in Dumbo) is packed with white tents as far as the eye can see. If the mass of people doesn't overwhelm you, the endless array of options definitely will. With over 100 vendors, it's important to have a plan of attack. Lucky for you, I have sacrificed myself as a food tester (I know, tough job.) Below are my results, the very best vendors at Smorgasburg:

1. Ramen Burger - If I didn't include Ramer Burger on my list, you probably would have figured out on your own that it's a popular stop. It had by far the longest line of people, consistently 30 deep for the whole time I was there. If you're committed enough to wait in line, you'll enjoy a deliciously seasoned burger with green onions and a chewy ramen bun.  
2. We Rub You - Everyone loves a summer BBQ, so why not try some Korean BBQ. We Rub You offers beef and pork tacos with kimchi, cucumbers and onions. The fresh taste is perfect for the summer weather. Don't forget to smother on their signature BBQ sauce! 
   
   
   
3. The Good Batch - A dream come true for all kids, an ice cream sandwich that is the size of their face. But I guarantee adults will enjoy the giant "goodwich" just as much. Offered in three flavors, the ice cream sandwich is a must-have for a hot summer day. It may look overwhelming but just try the chocolate chunk cookie with sea salt, fudge and vanilla ice cream… you won't regret it. 
4. Red Hook Lobster Pound - Lobster. That should be all I have to write to convince you but, I will go on. The Red Hook Lobster Pound offers one of the best lobster rolls in the city. My favorite is the Maine-Style Roll, chunky pieces of lobster tossed with homemade mayo in a buttery roll. It'll make you feel like you're chilling on the coast New England. 
5. People's Pops - I know, another cold dessert. But it is summer after all! How can you resist a refreshing ice pop in this heat? Exactly, you can't. So enjoy People's Pops, which offers local fruit ice pops and shaved ice. Make sure you hurry because exciting flavors like Rhubarb Hibiscus and Blueberry Lavender won't last long; the menu changes constantly. 
6. Summers - It's not often that you can drink coconut juice from an actual coconut in the middle of NYC so, take advantage now! A perfect thirst-quenching beverage to wash down all that great food.

Now, this list is just a starting point. Feel free to explore! Don't be afraid to try as many delicious dishes as possible. And don't forget to grab a seat along the waterfront so you can enjoy your ramen burger with a side of beautiful skyline views.

Insider tip: To beat the inevitable crowds, arrive either early or right before closing (hours are 11 am. to 6 p.m.) The largest crowds are usually found midday. 

1,700 and One.

Now I don't want to over hype this but, the post below is the ONLY blog post about NYC parks that you will ever have to read! Ok, that may be a little extreme. I can't confirm that statement to be 100% accurate, however, I can promise what you're about to read will be helpful.

My previous post about Astoria Park got me thinking. With over 1,700 parks in NYC, I could exclusively dedicate a blog to exploring each one. While that may seem like a good idea to some, I do want to provide you all with some variety. Therefore, below I've decided to list the "must visit" parks in each borough, a one-shot punch of information. Brace for impact!

Manhattan:
Disclaimer: I decided not to include Central Park below because I reserve the right to discuss it in a future blog post. There is just too much going on in Central Park to casually mention it in passing.

• The High Line – Not your traditional park, the High Line is a transformed elevated railway stretching 15 blocks.  Pristinely landscaped, and featuring installations and sculptures from world-renowned artists, the High Line is a beautiful addition to the Chelsea neighborhood. Take a late afternoon stroll to watch the sun set over the Hudson River. 
• Bryant Park – The two-square-block park located right behind the New York Public Library was previously famous for hosting Fashion Week. Now, it offers free yoga and Pilates classes as well as free movies on its lawn every Monday from June to August. 

Bronx:

• Van Cortlandt Park – One of the largest parks in all of NYC, Van Cortlandt houses a public golf course, biking and nature trails and a freshwater lake. On July 15th, the park will host Concerts in the Park, a free performance by the New York Philharmonic. 
• Pelham Bay Park – NYC's largest park, Pelham Bay is located at the northeastern most section of the Bronx, extending into Westchester County. Although it may seem like a far trip for just a park, Pelham Bay encompasses a man-made beach, wildlife sanctuary and museum. After you've worked up a hunger from all that activity, walk (or drive) to neighboring City Island for a bite to eat.

Brooklyn:

• McCarren Park – Located in the heart of Williamsburg, McCarren is a hipster haven. But don't let all that irony deter you; the park has a public pool, running track and handball, basketball and tennis courts. The park also hosts SummerScreen, which offers free outdoor movies every Wednesday night during July and August. 
• Brooklyn Bridge Park – Why should you visit Brooklyn Bridge Park? Simply, its spectacular views of Manhattan (as well as the Brooklyn Bridge, obviously). If the gorgeous horizon in front you isn't enough, the park also offers kayaking, bike paths, and beach access. 

Queens:

• Flushing Meadows Park – As the largest park in Queens, saying Flushing Meadows has "something for everyone" is an understatement.  Located right next to CitiField, the park is home to the Queens Museum of Art, the Queens Wildlife Center and Queens Hall of Science (in addition to the standard park fare of bike trails, skateparks and basketball, tennis and handball courts). 
• Forest Park – Forest Park is best known for its (go figure) forest trails and also for encompassing a portion of the Brooklyn-Queens Greenway, a bike and walking path that extends between the two boroughs. 

Staten Island:

• Clove Lake Park – The surroundings at Clove Lake Park are similar to Central Park's serene beauty, except the former is a lot less crowded. Clove Lake features connecting lakes, beautiful bridges, and rocky waterfalls. Explore the park by renting a paddleboat for $10 an hour, far cheaper than a boat rental in Central Park. 

So, there you have it, a compact list of the parks you NEED to visit this summer! There is a lot of information there so take your time, plan ahead and, most of all, have fun exploring.

Between Two Bridges

It is another beautiful summer day in NYC and you can't wait to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. But, unlike our last few adventures, you don't feel like being so active today. I completely understand, no judgments here. Sometimes, we all need a relaxing day to read a good book, people watch or even quietly listen to the soothing sounds of the Hudson River. Well, luckily, I have the perfect place to do all of that.

Tucked away between the RFK (formerly Triborough) and Hell Gate bridges is Astoria Park, one of the largest open spaces in Queens. Although the park covers almost 60 acres along the East River waterfront, it is oddly nondescript (in a good way!) As if it is shielding itself from the commotion of Astoria Boulevard, the park and its towering trees act as an oasis from the stresses of city life.

Steps from the N and Q stop at Astoria Blvd., the "no fuss" park includes mostly open spaces, practically begging you to spread out a blanket and relax for a bit. The slightly elevated grassy knoll next to the Hell Gate Bridge offers beautiful views of the East River and Randall's Island. And unlike Central Park, fighting for a choice spot to get your tan on won't be necessary. Virtually unknown to tourists, the park is mainly used by Astoria locals.

If you're feeling refreshed after your nap, the park offers miles of biking and walking paths. Multiple tennis courts are free to use to the public, as is the park's running track. Aside from the views, my favorite part of Astoria Park is the skate park, which sits directly under the RFK bridge. Even though I have never used a skateboard, I still enjoy watching them perform tricks. The noise of the wheels on the concrete, mixed with hum of the towering bridge above you, is oddly relaxing. It is a cool scene to check out, and maybe you'll be brave enough to try an "ollie". (I am embarrassed to admit that I had to Google "skateboard tricks".)

My first time visiting the park, I was shocked to learn that it housed a swimming pool. Right on the shore of the East River, the pool is the city's largest and oldest. Between June 27th and September 1st, the pool is open to the public every day until 7:00 p.m. So when those sweltering August days find their way to our city, pack a bathing suit and head on over to Astoria Park for a dip!

Under the Sea

When you think of Coney Island, a few things probably come to mind: the boardwalk, Nathan's hot dogs, the Cyclone. Ok, let's be honest, what we're really thinking is, "That's so far away." Sure, Coney Island is a bit farther away than most of us care to travel but, it is still part of NYC. If the beach and boardwalk games don't tempt you to make the long journey, how about the promise of a magical world under the sea?

The only aquarium in the city (and oldest in the U.S.), the New York Aquarium is located right on the Coney Island boardwalk, steps from the B, F, D, N & Q trains. Although it doesn't have the space and sheen of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, the NY Aquarium offers a cozy and manageable under-the-sea experience. (Also, having visited both aquariums, I have to say that you see all of the same things. The only difference is the NY Aquarium takes about half the time to complete.)

You'll arrive in the enclosed Conservation Hall to marvel at the array of colorful fishes, giant sea turtles and flattened sting rays. The Clown fish tank is a popular attraction, something to do with a little fish movie, Finding Nemo I think is its name.

The Aquarium also features plenty of outdoor attractions, including the Sea Lion show. Although, this may be a little to "family-cenric" for your likening. I would skip if you're traveling solo. Instead, head  to the underwater viewing area to watch the walruses and seals dive into their tanks like graceful ballerinas.

After visiting the Shark Tank and staring down a hungry Hammerhead shark (through the glass of course!), end your journey with the ocean's "outer-world creatures". Billed as "Alien Stringers", the Aquarium houses hundreds of jellyfish in black-light tanks, delivering on its title's promise. The alien-like jellyfish glow neon bright in the dark rooms. The tanks are a very cool visual centerpiece and will have you planning a way to incorporate them into your next apartment remodel.  

While the Aquarium is not exactly on the same level as the Bronx Zoo, it does inform, entertain and keep you cool. In the summer months, I can't really ask for much more. The New York Aquarium is the perfect place (and really the only place in the city) to explore life under the sea. So, take the journey to Coney Island and learn something you didn't know yesterday. Plus, afterward, you can treat yourself to a hot dog.

Kayak for One.

Thankfully, the beautiful days of June are still upon us and it's time for another NYC outdoor activity. While the New York Botanical Garden was scenic and relaxing, it's $25 admission charge was a bit steep. How about this time we try an outdoor adventure that's free? Yea, I thought you might enjoy the sound of that.

Hudson River Park along Manhattan's West Side (59th Street to Battery Park) has become the go-to summer hangout for tourists and residents alike. The array of amenities the park offers draw a great mix of people: singles, couples, and families. From bike paths to grassy knolls for sunbathing, the park will definitely keep your feet busy and shoulders tan. But if you're looking for a more rigorous activity, check out my favorite part of the park, the complimentary kayak attraction.

Kayaking, the ultimate "adventure for one", is fun on almost any body of water but, on the Hudson it is truly a can't-miss experience. Hudson River Park offers weekday and weekend kayak service at numerous locations. The free services, offered throughout city-run nonprofits, can be found at Piers 96 & 40. How many people can say they kayaked in New York Harbor? Probably not many. If only they knew how easy (and free!) it is.

After a quick Wikipedia search, I discovered that the page for Hudson River Park briefly mentioned the kayak services offered. The original entry (listed under "Amenities") is below:

The largest sporting complex in Hudson River Park is the Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex, which holds a variety of athletic spaces. Chelsea Piers sports a batting cage, bowling lanes, playing fields, a driving range, an ice skating rink, rock climbing facilities, and gymnastics space, among other exercise and fitness related spaces. Along with these indoor recreational facilities, Chelsea Piers offers boating activities and several restaurants on premises.

In keeping with the maritime heritage of the park, Hudson River Park has opportunities for outrigger canoeing on Pier 66 at West 26th Street, rowing and sailing on Piers 40 and 66, and free kayaking on Piers 96, 66, and 40.

Sure, the page mentions "free kayaking" but, not enough detail is provided for those who may be more interested. I changed the page's entry to read as follows:

In keeping with the maritime heritage of the park, Hudson River Park has opportunities for outrigger canoeing on Pier 66 at West 26th Street, rowing and sailing on Piers 40 and 66, and free kayaking on Piers 96, 66, and 40. 

The free kayaking attraction, run by NYC-based nonprofit organizations and volunteers, allows visitors to ride along the Hudson River while appreciating the view of downtown Manhattan. Open five days a week, including Saturdays and Sunday, free kayaking serves as an affordable activity for tourists and resident New Yorkers alike. After signing a waiver, and choosing a life vest, one can step in a kayak and enjoy a relaxing ride with friends family, or even alone.

Many people, like myself, look to Wikipedia for all sources of knowledge and information. The more detailed a page is, the better it is for the reader. As Wikipedia has shown us, sometimes the best things in life are free, like kayaking on the Hudson! Don't let these summer days pass you by. Get out there and paddle to your next adventure.

A Garden for One.

The beautiful summer days of June: warm sunshine, a light breeze and no humidity. They are the ideal moments of summer, and they are also fleeting... fast. That's why it's so important to get out and enjoy the fresh air now. The miserable stickiness of summer is looming right around the corner. (We see you August. Stay away!) I am sure you're wondering, "Where can I really enjoy nature in this concrete jungle?" Not known for its lush landscapes, New York often gets a bad reputation when it comes to nature. But most people forget the oasis just north of Manhattan: the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx.

Located steps from MetroNorth and Fordham University, The Botanical Garden is truly a paradise right in our backyard. Stepping through the gates you won't believe you're standing in the Bronx, yards away from the bustle of Fordham Road. The vast property allows visitors to enjoy peaceful surroundings right out of a movie.

Perfect for a solo stroll, the Garden is one of the few spots in NYC that you can truly relax while feeling active. Let yourself leisurely explore the grounds. Stop by the Garden's iconic Haupt Conservatory for the latest exhibit (currently "Groundbreakers" which features gardens designed by American women). The lily pond in the courtyard can't be missed and is the perfect  place to sit and reflect after a busy week.

The Garden is also home to the Peggy A. Rockefeller Rose Garden and the pristinely manucaured two-and-a-half-acre rock garden. My favorite part of the Garden is standing on Hester Bridge, right over the rapids of the Bronx River, and listening to the rushing water below. The tranquil sound is not something you often hear in Manhattan.

From the magnolia trees to the lilac bushes, the Garden is a real treat for the eyes. And perfect for a  convenient outdoor summer escape. If you're feeling extra adventurous, stop by neighboring Arthur Avenue for some authentic Italian cuisine beforehand. You can have your own picnic lunch in the Garden, what is better than that?

The Moth

Although it's fun to explore the New York that many of us know, or eat at restaurants that are in popular neighborhoods, I think it's important to feature off-the-beaten-path activities. Activities that may expand your mind or enrich your soul. An activity that maybe even the most seasoned New Yorker does not know about. I don't know many of these activities (I am still learning!) but I do want to share one: The Moth.

The Moth's StorySLAM is held nationwide, with many dates available in Manhattan (and now Brooklyn) this summer. Basically a poetry slam for storytellers, each performance features ten randomly selected members of the audience (previously signed up, don't worry!) who have five minutes to tell a story, any story. Story themes range from "lost" to "only in Brooklyn." At the end of the night, a judging panel compromised of fellow audience members votes on their favorite story.

Held in different locations around NYC (mainly Housing Works), StorySLAM is a great opportunity to feel part of a little community, even if you're alone. The audience is always a friendly group, collectively cheering the person at the mic. In a society accustomed to interaction via social media, it's truly refreshing to sit in front of individuals and listen to them share their story. However, if you're not the type to just sit around, tell your own story. Anyone can submit a story idea and you never know, you might be the one chosen.

Tickets are only $8 at the door (warning: get there early as there is usually a long line and they sell out quickly). Don't feel like waiting in a long line? Purchase tickets in advance at http://themoth.org. I know, how can it get any better? Wait, did I tell you that alcohol(!) and snacks are offered? See, it got even better.

The Moth's StorySLAM is the perfect summertime outing in New York. It's cheap, it's fun and I promise you'll feel more engaged and cultured after attending. Don't miss out!

Brunch for One.

I know what you're thinking. "Brunch? Really? Sunday's essential social gathering? A meal where friends convene to drink, discuss the debauchery of the previous night, and drink some more. How do you possibly enjoy brunch for one?"

Fair question. Brunch can be intimidating. But brunch is so much more than an excuse to gossip with the gang. It is an excuse to eat great food! And you shouldn't have to miss out on this Sunday morning tradition. Luckily, New York City's Locanda Verde makes brunch for one a breeze!

Located in Tribeca, Locanda Verde sits on a cobblestone corner of one the city's hippest neighborhoods. Like many Manhattan hotspots, it's just as much about the food as it is the experience. The entrance alone is inviting, pristinely accented with seasonal flowers. I was immediately greeted by a hostess who, when I said, "brunch for one," warmly smiled and showed me to the spacious bar. Sitting tall on the dark leather stool, I looked and saw fellow singles enjoying brunch: I was not alone.

Although outdoor seating is available, the real action happens inside. Reminiscent of a parisian bistro, the tables are small and the lighting is industrial. The curved bar, large enough to seat 15 people, glows a golden hue. The decor is trendy without being intimidating, elegant without being pretentious.

The brunch menu, larger than other brunch spots but not overwhelming, is divided into Antipasti (appetizers), Colazioni (breakfast/lunch) and Secondi (heartier lunch). Appetizers were priced between $10-$19, with entrees ranging from $22-$28. Offering an American twist on Italian cuisine, drinks include a Bloody Mary with hot peppers and mortadella.

I decided to try the Insalata D'Andrea (my mom's maiden name, how could I not?) and the Sheep's Milk Ricotta for appetizers. And for my entree, the Zucchini Frittata (egg pie). The salad, fresh arugula tossed with fennel and almonds, was a perfectly light Sunday treat. The sweetness of the apples was wonderfully paired with the saltiness of the asiago. The Zucchini Frittata was good but, unfortunately, not great. Growing up eating the brunch dish, I expected more. The eggs were fresh and the goat cheese sweet and savory; however, it lacked a punch. The real star of the meal was the Sheep's Milk Ricotta. Served with three pieces of burnt orange toast, the ricotta was rich and creamy. Infused with truffle honey and herbs, the dish has already secured my return.

Service at the bar was friendly and, thankfully, no judgments were thrown my way as a solo diner. In a city filled with great restaurants, Locanda Verde should definitely be a stop on your solo NYC summer tour. And, if you don't enjoy your brunch, you can always sit at the bar and star gaze. Tribeca-native Robert DeNiro is a co-owner.

Party of One

Let’s be honest, the idea of dining alone for the first time can be down right terrifying. Even for a veteran solo traveler, the phrase “party of one” can cause serious anxiety. From a young age, we are taught that eating out is a social experience. An experience best enjoyed with, if not a group of people, at the very least one other companion. But why does that always have to be the case? Is it so hard to imagine enjoying a meal alone? We do it in the confines of our own home daily: breakfast in the kitchen, lunch on the couch, or even dinner at the table. But what our homes don’t include are the judging eyes of other diners. “Oh, that lonely man,” they whisper. “How sad.”

The fear of dining solo is rational; I am not here to argue that. In fact, I think it is usually the primary reason many people choose their couch over an adventure. It is undoubtedly the biggest hurdle to jump and, therefore, the best place to begin. Luckily, I am here to help you reach the glory on the other side. A simple action, eating a meal at a table for one, has the possibility to produce wonderful feelings of liberation! I believe it is worth a try, especially if we can all agree to start small.

The first step: eat lunch alone. No, not at your desk or in the cafeteria, somewhere outside your work or school. I think the best way to get a taste of dining alone is to take your lunch and sit in a public place. You can enjoy the beautiful summer sunshine and sample delicious takeout options in your neighborhood. Not so scary, right?

Today, I soaked up the sun in Richard Tucker Square and ate an amazing egg sandwich from 72^nd Street Bagel. Not bad for a Thursday afternoon. 

So, give it a try. Remember, baby steps. Let me know how it goes!

But, Why?

This blog is about two things: navigating and exploring New York City and doing so (in said city) with me, myself and I.

Having reiterated that, I can only imagine two questions a reader of this blog may have.

1. Why New York City?
Great question. With 2 rivers, 5 boroughs, 83 museums, 1,700 parks and 20,000 restaurants and bars, it is safe to say that New York City has a lot to offer. Generally blessed with a pleasant climate in June and July (August is a swampy pit of humidity so we'll just forget about it for now), New York City in summer provides ample opportunities for exploration. The snow has long thawed and once again we are able to walk/bicycle/subway to thousands of awaiting adventures. Also, the copious amount of sunshine brings an added bonus. Most summer activities are, if not free, very budget friendly. 

2. Why alone?
Well, firstly, thank you for your judging tone. Secondly, if you took the time to do a quick Google search you would have seen that over 1.4 million single people live in New York City. No, correction; over 1.4 million single people between the ages of 20 – 34 live in New York City. That’s one-eight of the city’s entire population. That does not count the number of solo international tourists or single visitors from our neighboring states. And what about parents who need some "me" time or a husband/wife looking for a day to him/her self? 

If you can answer "yes"to the question, "are you sometimes alone in NYC looking for something to do?" then this blog may be for you.