New York

The flight with BA was great, complementary drinks, loads of food, movies, games and all that Jazz. Arrived at Newark airport Tuesday evening to hot and humid weather. Grabbed a bus into town and found the hostel no problem. It's basic but fine- nice hot showers, free internet and literally 2 mins walk from Time Square. Had a walk about once we had checked in (had to buy a towell from K-Mart, only $3!) and then grabbed a couple of drinks in a bar while watching the Yankee's play baseball. Got caught in a freak rainstorm on the way back!!

Got up pretty early Wednesday and grabbed breakfast at some coffee shop - the tea was alright!! Weather was still bright and sunny but it was a lot colder than yesterday - a bitter wind. Walked a few blocks and visited the Rockafella Plaza, including fantastic views from the observatory "on top of the rock". Visited Trump Tower (posh) and Apple Store. Saw a breakdance crew pooping some moves on the street corner - really good. Had a nice long walk around Central Park, which is huge. We walked up to the Resevoir and back - it's lovely and quiet and a massive contrast to the hustle and bustle just a few blocks away. Squirrells everywhere too!

Had a nice pasta meal in a bar at Columbus Corner while watching the UEFA cup on tv. Then got the subway to Bryant Park and walked a couple of blocks to Grand Central station. The place is as huge as it is beautiful. Wandered around a few more shops in Midtown, got some Reeses peanut butter cupcakes from the Hershes store. Bought my first record of the trip at Virgin MEgastore - the 45:33 LP by LCD Soundsystem. Got a couple of cheap tickets for a comedy club for the evening. It was pretty quiet in there but some of the comediens were pretty funny still. A couple of drinks in the Irish Pub near thehostel on the way home and then another good nights sleep.

Heading out of town today to meet a friend of Pauls who lives in West Point. Will do more sightseeing on Friday when we go downtown. Will try and upload a few photos soon.