New York City - Day One, September 8, 2013
My first stop today was the grave of my 7th great grandfather in Mt. Bethel, Pennsylvania. He died just short of his 75th birthday in 1775.
The drive to New Jersey then began. I know there are those who drive over the speed limit, but really! They don't even slow down for work zones. I am not one for freeways to begin with. It was also a very rough ride.
I stopped for my ticket at the New Jersey Turnpike and thought I had it made. Suddenly signs appeared - one said north and one said south. My mind doesn't work that fast!! Of course, I chose wrong and ended up at MetLife Stadium as fans were showing up for the football game! Surprisingly, there were enough streets to get around it.
Back on track and then road construction with traffic down to one lane for awhile.
The tour hosts were greeting people at the entrance of the Liberty Marina and RV Park and assigning sites. I find it so interesting how often I am told they are parking me near the bath house - I never set foot in them. Basically, this is a parking lot. I have the back of a fifth wheel no more than 4 feet from my dinette window! Some are already complaining of the low voltage. Mine was 113 when I hooked up. I later plugged in my autoformer which boosts the voltage - now 123. Needed the air conditioner!!
There is a casual restaurant on the property where we had our orientation and an early dinner included with the tour. And a small glimpse of the Statue of Liberty.
The bus picked us up at 5 with the walk-on guide. I will be so tired of listening to her before this is over as she stumbles over what she wants to say, repeats herself, complains, etc.
We drove through Hoboken, NJ - which is where my great-grandmother stayed with her brother when she first came from Germany as a teenager.
We stopped at Hamilton Park for a view across the Hudson River of NYC. Near here was the spot Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr had the duel. This is also the area of the Hudson where the pilot safely landed the airplane a few years ago.
Next through the Lincoln Tunnel, 90 feet under water.
Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center). From one side you could see Central Park. The other side had the Empire State Building and the new World Trade Center Tower.
Times Square - heaven help me. Sunday night it is reportedly not as crowded. All the lighted billboards just sort of take your breath away - so many ads to read.
Back to the park via the Holland Tunnel.
and The William too!
