New York Chronicles: The Grand Finale

Bargain Hunt in the Big Apple

Rise and Shine for Retail Therapy

Ah, the final day in the city that never sleeps, or so they say. Yesterday, we decided to dub it ‘New York – The Final Day.’ Our morning commenced with a prompt rise, well before 09:00. Why, you ask? Because, my dear reader, we were diving headfirst into the wild world of shopping. Again. Now, I’m not one to rain on the parade, but I’m not entirely convinced there are hidden bargains waiting to be discovered in this sprawling metropolis. Not like in Chicago. Ah, Chicago – where we lived like the locals, not just mere tourists.

Jelly Belly Dreams Crushed, but Levi’s Triumphs

Our quest for Jelly Belly Beans in Macy’s proved fruitless, or should I say, jelly-less. That hunt hit a roadblock. But fret not, for Michele, the shopping maestro, had other plans. Our mission shifted to the elusive Levi’s store. Luck was on our side this time, and lo and behold, they had our sizes! Victory tasted almost as sweet as those Jelly Belly Beans we never found.

Bagels, Coffee, and Local Delights

Now, a morning of retail therapy calls for a proper breakfast. Picture this: a cream cheese bagel paired with steaming hot coffee, enjoyed in a quaint local deli tucked away by the side of Macy’s. Ah, the simple pleasures of life.

From Shopping Bags to Bus Tours

Packing, Checking Out, and Bus Tours

Back at the hotel, bags packed, and check-out completed, our next adventure awaited. The bag, now safely in the hands of the concierge, we hit the streets again. This time, on the lookout for the bus tour guys. Route agreed upon, we embarked on the ‘downtown’ journey, headed for the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Our tour guide, a walking encyclopedia on all things New York, serenaded us with facts as we navigated the streets and avenues.

Fifth Avenue and Real Estate Revelations

Did you know? Fifth Avenue spans a staggering 6.5 miles! And if you’re eyeing an apartment in Manhattan, be prepared to dish out a cool $2.5 million or more. After two hours on the ‘downtown’ bus, we switched to the ‘Uptown’ route at Central Park, marveling at Central Park, Grants Tomb, and Museum Mile. The Easterly wind nudged us to seek warmth, a cue taken when we hit Harlem.

From Bubba Gump’s to JFK

Times Square Pit Stop

Exiting the bus at Times Square, we faced a race against time. With just over an hour before our JFK journey, Michele, the decision-maker, chose Bubba Gumps Restaurant, inspired by the classic film Forrest Gump. A choice that turned out to be as good as a box of chocolates – no surprises, all delights.

Taxi Tales and Airport Antics

The taxi ride back to JFK introduced us to an entertaining Jamaican driver, a seasonal cabbie splitting his time between the Big Apple and the sunny shores of Florida. Airport security at JFK was on high alert, ensuring our safety. Post-security, Michele resumed her shopping spree, while I sought solace in a $12.70 (£8.34) IPA. Pricey, but my, did it taste like liquid gold.

Homeward Bound

The flight, bustling with travelers, maintained the Delta team’s stellar service. A minor hiccup: a young, restless passenger who chose bedtime as the opportune moment for a symphony of whining. Homecoming at the airport was delightful, with Sam and Harry, the little ball of energy, making us feel like true VIPs.

Jet Lag and Grandpa Goals

Back to reality, jet-lagged but grateful for the whirlwind adventure. Working from home, battling a hint of jet lag, but with the warmth of Harry’s shouts of “Pompa” ringing in our ears. Grandpa may be a work in progress, but aren’t the best things worth the wait?