I love NYC – Part Three

Who’s ready for some more New York vibes? Me!! In the last two posts I took you on a journey to the city’s highlights and top museums. But part of what makes the island Manhattan so special are the different areas, each with is own character and ambiance. My favorite neighborhoods are Greenwich Village & Chelsea, so here’s what you can’t miss out on while there.

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Some history…

In the 18th century Greenwich Village was constructed as a residential area for the rich. It formed a border between the northern part of Manhattan and protected the rich people against diseases that came from the poorer southern part of town. When the rich moved to other parts of town, their houses were transformed into apartments for immigrants and artists. Because of the cheap rents, The Village became really popular amongst artists and bohemians. By the beginning of the 20th century Greenwich Village was a focal point of new movements and ideas, whether political, artistic, or cultural. The neighborhood has been home to the world’s most famous artists and writers, Edgar Allan Poe, Salvador Dalí, Jackson Pollack and Andy Warhol. One of the most popular singer-songwriters ever, Bob Dylan, started off his career here.. Although many artists and local historians mourn the fact that the bohemian days of Greenwich Village are gone, you can still feel that liberating vibe when you walk through the streets. That, and the fact that the area is filled with beautiful townhouses and charming alleys, make it my favorite neighborhood in NYC.

My personal highlights…

Washington Square Park is the heart of The Village. It’s the place where jugglers, chess players, stand-up comedians, NYU students and all kinds of people come together to enjoy life. The real eye-catcher on the square, is the Memorial Arch, which has been featured in many movies and TV-shows.

A couple blocks away you’ll find Bleecker Street, one of my favorite shopping streets in the world. 7 for All Mankind, MAC and Michael Kors, all have beautiful stores here. Marc Jacobs even has three; a men’s, women’s and Bookmarc. Authors often use the trendy bookstore as a venue for book launches. Because of that, you can sometimes find unique editions and signed-copies of the books here. I like! Across the street lays the famous  Magnolia Bakery. Being a diehard Sex and the City fan I just had to go there and taste one of their cupcakes. And honestly, they are the best cupcakes I’ve ever had! In fact they were so yummy, I even forgot to photograph them … oops! 

While we’re talking SATC, did you know that  Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment isn’t actually located on the Upper East Side, but in the Village, more specifically on 66 Perry Street. Oh, how I love that brownstone! When can I move in?

Also in The Village: The Friends Apartement Building. It’s located at 90 Bedford Street at the corner of Grove Street.

Food & Cocktails…

Hungry from all the shopping and sightseeing? In Greenwich Village you have so many options, that it’s hard to choose. We came across  Sevilla. This bar and restaurant has been sharing the delicious Spanish cuisine with the inhabitants from The Village since 1941. We had the Paella a la Valenciana and it was absolutely delicious.

If you are looking for a nice bar, head to  Cowgirl. They bring that warm Texas-atmosphere to New York and serve the best frozen margaritas. 

CHELSEA

Some history…

Chelsea is one of the oldest neighborhoods in New York City. Today, its characterized as one of the most eclectic and hip quarters in the city, but it hasn’t always been that way. Chelsea began as the property of the retired British Major Thomas Clarke. In 1750 he bought some land in the region and named it after Chelsea in London. From then on, the land changed numerous times and was mostly used as a place for industry with warehouses and passenger shipping dominating the area throughout the rest of the century. By 1869, a theatre district had formed in the area, but it wasn’t until 1884, when the famous Chelsea Hotel opened, that Chelsea’s artistic nature began. In the 90’s the Chelsea area underwent a total make-over, making it one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in Manhattan. Today Chelsea is filled with fancy boutiques, restaurants and art galleries.

My Personal highlights…

The  High Line is a 4,8 km long promenade, that stretches from the Meat Packing District to Chelsea. It has been considered one of those hidden gems, but even now that the word is out, it remains one of those magical places in the city. The former abounded, above-ground railway, has been restored to a wonderful public park. It features botanical gardens, a walking path and great views over the Hudson river.

Food & Cocktails…

What better place to go for food and drinks than Chelsea Market! The old Oreo cookie factory, now houses one of the greatest indoor food halls of the world, with more than thirty-five vendors. This is the true Walhalla for foodies! There are so many stands, going from lobster to pancakes, wine to coffee, that it’s hard to pick one. But after checking everything out, you eventually have to choose, so we went to  Giovanni Rana. In this cozy Italian restaurant, fresh pasta is made on site on a daily basis. Besides from that, they also serve delicious bar bites, salads and main dishes. And also the wines are to good to be true.

Practical information

• It’s mandatory to fill out the online ESTA application prior to your arrival to the USA (you just need to answer a few standard questions and pay $14,00).
• Currency: American dollar ($)
• Check the settings of your credit card before you travel to make sure it’s properly working in the USA.
• Don’t forget to take power plug adapters.
• Choose convience and take a cab from the airport to the hotel. You’ll avoid dragging around your luggage on the busy subways. Cab fare is about $70. 

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