Hidden High Line

A High Line Emblem

After a short hiatus from blog updates I wanted to return with a follow up to my Central Park visit- but this time I found myself in an unprecedented urban park which I wanted to share with you.

With a mass of unfinished work to my left and right you would think time is scarce and that I would not have enough of it to blog regularly. But the reason I am able to carry out this undertaking at the High Line Park is because my professor is ‘outta town’ today (although I have been given a fair amount of reading) so I have taken full advantage of his virtual absence.

It is Tuesday 8^th November 2010. The air is fresh and polluted- surely these don’t correspond with each other? And yet they do.  Once again the horizon is without mountains of cloud, just the glorious rays beating on our backs and burning our faces. The cold is now becoming a minor blip in light of these favourable conditions. And so the new discovery begins…

As part of New York’s urban development many obsolete and dilapidated buildings are undergoing a gentrification process (yallah Hoblanders!). The High-Line Park is a revolutionary spin on what is deemed a traditional park. It is more of a concept than a park. I thought it would be fitting to show you a contrast between Central Park and this cutting-edge park. Whilst Central Park encompasses a vast capacity of Manhattan (it’s a real focal point) the High-Line occupies a modest space in the Chelsea district- a district that is home to the plush and the Projects.

A Gorgeous Tree-Lined Street

So, The High Line was originally built in the 1930s as a rail line structure, to lift dangerous freight trains off Manhattan's street. Because the park site is featured on a rail track it is of course an elevated park. This is what I meant when I mentioned that New York is old vs. new, the well-executed urban landscape is integrated within the original 1930s parameters. The beauty of its location is that you get a 360 degree scenic vista of Manhattan and New Jersey. And a real treat is getting a sliver of Liberty Island alongside the panoramic Hudson River against Jersey, if you stand at the right angle… 

From Here The Park Blends In With The Industry

 It isn’t especially big or extensive- just a long winding strip set against an industrial backdrop. That is what’s so great about this experience because you feel like you are engulfed in a modern locale but the retention of the 1930s charm adds a nostalgic touch to an epoch that is ever present.

Steel Steps To Unconventional Serenity

The Walkways Are Flanked With High Grass

 

With Regular Spurts Of Flowerbeds

'The Epitome of Relaxation' isn't a phrase that would typically be attached to an urban park, but the very essence of the experience is based upon the city's madness.The sleek lounge chairs and benches provide a momentary slump for you to savor in the flickering traffic lights and absorb the city's acoustic range.

Whilst I observed here and there I noticed a seemingly chilled out woman lying down with her legs untangled, taking the shape of the lounge chair design. The wind took her cascading hair over the edge of the chair. Her face's natural creases were accentuated with her subtle smile. She was loving it.

The Chair's Ramp Is A Welcoming Decline After A Hectic Morning

My personal favorite part is the 'Viewing Spur' which acts as a kind of urban theatre for the masses to allow the kinetic energy of the city to go by under their feet. A tad confused at this concept? 

The Amphitheater Style Seating

An Urban Experience

The steel framed glass 'windows' provide with a clear, clean and visceral image of 10th Avenue's action.  I've sat here during the day/night to see the difference and neither failed to hypnotize me. The constant motion sends you to a trance like state- then a drill sounding horn pops the bubble! And also, at night there are soft white and green lights that emanate from under the plants. It's such a peaceful aura.

Because this park is part of a new wave of modern concepts there are certain features which support an urban ideology. Placed in the middle of the park, is a standing canvas with random cut outs. 

As Demonstrated Here, You Have To Look Through A Small Rectangular Slit To See A Fragmented View Of The City

This Is My Camera's Shot- Conclude What You Will With This Perception....

 If you ever visit this park you need to come equipped with an open mind. It is not a lush and green park that will transport you to another realm like Central Park does but it is still an inviting respite from the daily high speed pace.  In fact it actually reinforces the West Village’s ‘look’- a ‘look’ that is now being reborn with the accumulative renewal efforts. And I hasten to add that this is still a working progress, as an extension is in the works.This really is a gem hidden from the city’s commercial spots. If you want an artistic experience, GO.  www.thehighline.org

Even Though This Is An Abstract Park, There Is No Law Against Carrying Out Traditional Past times!

                        Oh and I thought I'd show you what New York's current colour palet is:

Festive Spirits Loom!

Georgie

Fall In Full

Mmmm remember when I told you that the best things happen from a simple stroll? Well truth be told, today was just one of those days..

Crunch Crunch Crunch

The great thing about Tuesdays is that my classes finish at 12:25pm. I think I might have told many of you that my school is located in the Upper East Side which is conveniently close to Central Park- 3 blocks away. With a gorgeous solar flare in the sky I was sooooo excited to make my usual walk through the park as I headed home. Until you actually visit Central Park for yourself there is no way to navigate it on paper. In real life it is much more dense and deep than what a map shows- no real surprises there. Until I found the best route to get from the entrance at 70th and 5th to Columbus Circle I just let my eyes and nose lead the way, and unsurprisingly got lost each and every time! Now that I have found my footing around the central and southern parts of the park I hippity hop a gorgeous route that takes me from 70th and 5th through to The Mall and from there I simply follow the pathways that lead to Columbus Circle.

Upon entering the park there are a series of benches. Today an elderly couple were bundled together with a peaceful aura about them. Mr. (I'm going to give him a name) Forrestor's hand was rested comfortably on Mrs. Forrestor's lap as they enjoyed the city's cacophony and the park's tranquility in equal measure. I know it seems like I stopped and just stared at them but I passed them at my pace and just made that little observation. If you know me well you know that I stare. A lot. I  have taken 'people watching' to an invasive level where I now 'people watch, people watchers'. I mean in all honesty I only use my peripheral vision as it does suffice,  so I guess it's not too extreme! You know now that I think about it, a 20 year old like me is supposed to subscribe to a life of endless hedonistic (thank you Ms. Mullholland) pleasures where strolls in the park are omitted but I endeavor to embed this tangential lifestyle into that of a typical 20 year old.

                              Another sighting was found along the way....
                                                                      And
                 Whether they liked it or not I captured a nice bit of buttox along the way

Nice 'Thrusting' Shot Of These Hard Working Men

The park is a great outlet for sports as you can imagine because the grounds are endless with some very private and hidden parts if you are shy of the crowds! These hot (I don't know if they were actually hot, my eyes wondered down south to their derieres) totties were on the side of the road- no reservations what so ever!
I'm not going to lie. As much as I love a stroll without a care in the world I always HAVE to have the company of a film score playing on my Ipod. That may sound strange but I kid you not, there is no greater pleasure than walking to the sound of a relaxing soundtrack. It's weird because when I had the soundtrack to 'Stars Wars' on the other day I sped through the park as I got excited....but today it was....eehmm Ok no jokes please but the film score to 'Mrs. Doubtfire'. Yes, Euphegenia Doubtfire dear. Honestly it is the nicest accompaniment to a meandering stride because the emotional feeling buried within the fabric of the music just makes me feel so humble and warm. Sorry for the gushing there, but it was simply perfect. Do try it guys- get yourself a sublime film score and walk through any given park. Make sure it is purely orchestral, anything with lyrics takes the personal experience away. Just let the music conjure thoughts and images in your head that are not associated with the movie. Let your imagination unlock itself. I'm telling you, it will make a good day a great day.  Karla, I highly recommend the soundtrack to 'Stepmom', it's a gorgeously eclectic score where you can bask in a state of true repose. If you want a taster of the score go on itunes and check out 'Taking Pictures'. 

A quick lapse into the photos again:                                  
                   

A Muted Grey Against A Striking Auburn

Autumn Abyss

Whilst it may look like Fall, the wisps of the razor-edged wind teased my shivering ear lobes (which were in fact sheltered with my hat) but the sunlight was heavily filtered by the trees providing me with short-lived yet soothing pockets of warmth.

And so my little walk comes to an end at Columbus Circle. But hey, this is New York spontaneity is ALWAYS on the cards. A large mass of people were hovering outside the Trump Hotel taking snapshots of something I couldn't quite get a glimpse of. Since the traffic and pedestrians were being diverted to other streets I knew some filming must be occurring. I joined the crowd and started to take some photos and to my excitement I saw Ben Stiller in character filming a scene with an elderly co-star. 

Meet The Stiller

Just when you think all that is sundry and plentiful comes to an end something else will find it's way to tickle your fancy and take you by surprise.

                                                    This is what New York is all about.


Best Wishes,
Georgie

I'll Take You To The Candy Shop

Greetings on this blistering cold afternoon! I awoke to a bitterly cold Monday morning at 6:30am- yes no lies. But with a glowing sun on the rise, I knew it would be a glorious day!

Today I was in need of a sugar rush after last night's disappointing deficit. No Halloween Parade for me. Never mind. I still managed to don my puffy dress with the high collar and repeatedly chant: 'OFF WITH YOUR HEAD'. As you can imagine I was totally in my element.

In between my 8-5pm classes (!!) I decided that I wanted to share with you, the BEST candy store that exists in NY- in my view anyway. The colorful sugar delight goes by the name : 'Dylan's Candy Bar'

The Enticing Exterior

Even if I didn't want to enter, I would have just to allow my hands/face/feet/finger nails/baby toe to defrost...brrrrrr NY's November gave us a kick into Winter!! Much to my delight a candy assistant greeted me with a jovial 'Hey there! Would you like to try our chocolate espresso balls??' I thought ...'oh god yeah...I don't even like coffee flavored chocolate but I needed to pump some warm energy around my icy body.

Now let me tell you, I have actually been here before but this time I wanted to take photos to share the sugar-coated experience with you. Just a quick history on the place: Dylan's Candy Bar is actually owned by Dylan Lauren- Ralph Lauren's daughter that is. Need I share the prices?? As you can imagine they are sky high and do not complement a student's budget, but I thought once in a while can't hurt....we'll see how I feel about this reasoning tomorrow when I need an extra 10 bucks for milk and cereal!

I have told my friends about this sugar galore of a place numerous times but I really wanted to show you what it has.                                                

 Endless Cavity Cases   

A Sweet Touch To Your Step

The Steps Leading Down To More Treat

As I feel myself getting that much sought after rush through the smell of candy I discover more and more treats. I mean it goes to the extreme- something I noticed America likes to do (not intended to offend mind you!) What makes this place stand out from the rest is the incredible detail that each treat comes with. You can get a maximized Hershey's Chocolate Bar in the form of a tootsie roll..You can get your name on a coffee mug, or a cookie jar that also has a personal touch too- i.e. Tammy's Jar.
 It doesn't just go as far as sugary treats....oh no.. you can 'wear' it too

Is This The Sweetest Thing Or What?

Imagine gyming it out in those hot things.... and of course they have baby sized clothing, just so that Mummy and Daddy know that their precious one is the sweetest of them all.

I came to the 'FUDGE' section. Flavors are endless.....Smores, cookies and cream, mint chocolate chip, blueberry and strawberry cheesecake, toffee and even more imaginative ones that I can't quite recall- that is how obscure they were. AND OF COURSE, being an NY enterprise they also cater for those who require Kosher treats.

Trainee Cutting My Smores Fudge....rich and headache giving!

                                                                                                 

Eat Your Heart Out Willy Wonker

The short and sweet trip was rounded off by a nice candy clerk at the checkout who told me to have a 'sweet day' ....ok no she didn't but I wish she did- it would have made the trip that much more corny!
I think for me, the best part was going into a momentary trance- not by the sugary high but by the insanely cute and creative backdrop:

Beats A Rainbow Any Day

The T.V. Center Piece Showed A Continual Series of Candy Adverts From The 1950s

    With my fudge in tow it was off to school with me. I now had a sugary delight for dessert on this cold, brittle Monday. YES. Not going to lie though, it gave me an unsavory headache which was only alleviated with a salty Pretzel.

I believe you can have your birthday party there (at what cost...I'm not sure, but I'm sure I don't want to know!) They should give a coupon for Advil with every $10 purchase for the parents of the Birthday Boy/Girl- they will undoubtedly require it.

If you want to surf the online candy store you can: www.dylanscandystore.co                                                                     
Be sure to check out all the creamy bliss and should you invest in some sugar, brace yourself for a toothache....

The Sweet Hours of Operation: Monday-Thursday: 9am-10pm
                                                   Friday-Saturday: 10am-11pm
                                                   Sunday: 11am-9pm

Take Care,
Georgie

Off With Your HEAD.

Overdue Start

It seems a tad overdue to start creating blogs of my time in New York City, but up until now I could not articulate my adventures into a coherent thought let alone blog. The reason for this is because I have been overwhelmed with this city's madness and its people. So lets just say this is my equivalent of a 'dear diary' entry....My initial impressions of New York were that of a frazzled 14 hour traveler who had ventured from the arid Middle East to a concrete New York.  I felt totally displaced and distant from this cultural mesh of Spanish-American-British-Russian-Anything you want society. As I was drifting in and out of a deep slumber in the taxi I saw a strip of the Manhattan skyline as we were trekking through Queens. Unfortunately the buildings were shrouded by clouds as a storm was on its way. It would have been nice to start my expedition in the concrete jungle upon arriving at the hotel, but in hindsight this was a relief, as my temper was brewing storm of its own through lack of sleep!

The first few days were full to the brim with a 'touristy' itinerary, including: The Statue of Liberty, Central Park, The Plaza Hotel (my obsession with Home Alone 2 was complete!), Bethesda's Fountain (a recent obsession stemming from 'Angels in America'....a brilliant play) and so on....

As much as I loved having my parents with me during the first 2 weeks, I adjusted much better after they left because I was able to work around my own 'day' rather than theirs. Although my financial freedom was cut(!) my freedom to escape to the West Village or the Lower East Side to see, smell, taste and touch grew more and more.

New York has a kind of diversity that no other city I have visited can rival. It is truly a mesh of old vs. new; China meets Italy; Business meets pleasure. Within 20 minutes I can be stood within the construction craze of Ground Zero to the leafy luxury of Central Park. Of course this exists in all major cities and hubs- but New York has that something extra that allows each district to be unique in its own right.

With time I want to share the various events and places I come across....and most times I find the best things from a simple stroll.

Georgie 


                                                   

From This....

To This......

In All Her Glory: Statue of Liberty