New York, New York

It was by pure chance that I got the experience to visit NYC during the Christmas season. A work conference moved due to Sandy was rescheduled right in the midst of the most wonderful time of the year. I went to visit a few years ago during the summer, but honestly, nothing compares to going in December!

I stayed at the New York Hilton which is right next to Rockefeller and Radio City Music Hall. It was a great hotel, but I honestly wouldn't have picked it if my conference wasn't being held there. It was great to be centrally located though.

 

 

I got the great chance to meet up with my cousin who lives in NYC, a friend who was there for business AND go to the Rockette's Christmas show. It was a busy trip for sure!

I got the chance to wander around and see all of the beautiful store windows, dropped into FAO Schwartz and did a little shopping on 5th Avenue. My favorite area that I visited was Bryant Park. They have a Christmas market set up with shops selling apple cider, homemade gifts and Christmas treats. I wish I had time to skate on the rink, but it was fun to watch for a while.

 

 

St. Patrick's Cathedral was also completely decked out for Christmas. I especially loved the nativity scene. No baby Jesus - it's not Christmas yet!

 

 

 Last, but not least, I had to go get a glimpse of Johnny's new ad in Times Square. Whoop!

 

I was only in NYC for 3 short days, but it was great to see the city at it's best. The only thing that could have made the trip better was snow. It was actually warmer in NYC than it was in Dallas! I didn't see the effects of Sandy where I was, but heard from many people in the conference about the absolute devastation in some areas. Hopefully things can get back to normal as soon as possible for those people.

 

Travel updates: That's it for 2012! We're looking forward to getting some family time in and relaxing. In January, we're hoping for Orlando.

 

ALSO, news on the big trip front and it's looking like it's going to be Australia and New Zealand this year! Sorry, Southeast Asia, but you have really cheap tickets. It doesn't make sense for us to risk standby to only save $200/person. Don't worry, we will visit you soon...

 

So guys, until next year! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!