On our last day, Caroline had to leave early so we went for a breakfast at a diner nearby before finishing packing. I left my stuff in the room and went with Caroline who tried to hail a cab on our street. After a few taxis past, one stopped. It was already occupied but she rolled down the window and told us to go to the corner of 3rd Avenue (next road down). Apparently the trick is to wave from the corner (and partially standing in the road helps but we weren't that brave/crazy). Eventually we flagged one down and Caroline went off to Penn Station to get her train to Baltimore airport.
I went back to Grand Central. While we were stuck on the bus yesterday evening, the tour guide was filling in time (while trying to figure out where we were going because it was not the way we should be due to something happening on 49th, either an accident or the road was blocked because someone famous arrived at the Waldorf Astoria.) She told us loads of things about Grand Central, like how they smuggled Jackie Kennedy out in the middle of the night on a train (I have no idea why that was so impressive but she and others seemed to think so.) There are lots of secret tunnels and train lines there going to the Waldorf, which is the President's hotel while in New York. It started with Roosevelt staying there and other Presidents after have kept up the tradition. The tunnels were built so Roosevelt could kept the secret he was in a wheelchair and arrive secretly. Of course, I couldn't go in the tunnels, but still pretty cool. Also they are supposed to have great shops there!
And the station itself is really is beautiful. Penn Station used to be the same but they tore it down, but thankfully saved Grand Central Terminal.
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Astronomy on the ceiling. |
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View from the balcony. |
I had a wonder around but couldn't find all these amazing shops people talk about.
And then I found heaven! Grand Central Market. Remember I have been in Blacksburg for the past few months which isn't exactly the height of civilization (though I do love it already there) but the selection of gourmet foods etc is limited. The market was fairly small but amazing. They had meat, fish, cheese, veg, and more.
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Veg stall |
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The most beautiful cakes I have ever seen! |
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Spice and tea heaven!!!! |
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Even chocolate! |
Though my favorite was the spices and teas where I brought lots of different spices and tea. (The selection was amazing!) I came away a little poorer but very happy!
After that I wondered a little, hit one more souvenir shop for a few little bits and headed back to the hotel as my shuttle to the airport is at 12pm. I then have 2 and a half hours in Terminal F in Philly. If you ever go there, take food and reading material. There is nothing!!!!!
Overall, I love New York!!!! I don't really like cities that much but I think I could live in New York. There is so much to do and am looking forward to next visit and doing all the things I missed this time! :-)
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