I am writing from an Internet Cafe in the middle of Times Square, NYC. "Cafe" is probably a bit of a misnomer given that there must be at least 300 terminals here - everything is bigger in NY.

I'm here with an old friend from my McMaster days who shares a number of interests - in particular a love of blues and jazz.  We flew in from Buffalo on Monday and got a free shuttle ride to the A train subway stations. That one train got us within 2 blocks of our fabulously located accommodation - the West End YMCA. Were not talking luxury accommodation here - bunk beds in
a 9 x 12 room and the bath down the hall however we are right beside Central Park - an amazing location.  In addition, we have full use of their facilities which includes two pools, gyms and a better equipped fitness centre than the one I go to in Hamilton which is excellent. All this for 35.00 a night each!!

This city had more than exceeded my expectations - I couldn't see myself living here but I can understand why so many people do.  It is much more friendly and non-threatening than I imagined.  We have had three different people stop us and ask if they can help when we were looking a little lost or pursuing a map. There is obviously a sense of non-stop action and people hurrying here there and everywhere but it is quite exciting and
exhilarating to experience.

For 38.00 we purchased a NYC pass that has four major museums and galleries included, a two hour boat cruise around Manhattan, a trip up the Empire State building and a tour of a WW@ aircraft carrier among others - a great deal.

Last night we had a wonderful meal at an Indian restaurant and then as we were strolling by Washington Square in Greenwich Village, we sat in on a superb jazz group made up of NYC University music students - no charge. Tonight we are going to BB Kings Jazz club right opposite where I am in Times Square and seeing a group fronted by the former lead guitarists for
the Kinks.

Earlier today we rented bikes and cycled through Central Park and then over to the river and along the bike back that runs most of the way along the west shore of Manhattan - beside the Hudson River. I think the most impressive thing I have seen and experienced here is the park - it is amazing.  It not only huge but exceptionally beautiful with lagoons, lakes, flower gardens etc.  All the leaves are out and the crab-apple trees are in
full blossom - just a wonderful place.

Anyways - my time is running out -  Please excuse any spelling - I don't have time to run a check.  Looking forward to seeing some of you Sherratt folk next Monday.

All the best

Larry                                                                                                                            Return