Newport, Rhode Island

In March 2011, I was just done with a major exam at Grad school in Boston. After long hours of studying and working, I felt a strong urge to take a break and get out of the city. So, my friends and I rented a car, packed a little picnic and headed out. Destination – Newport, Rhode Island.

Newport is about 75 miles south of Boston. Once you get there, the best way to explore is to walk.

The highlights of Newport are the Mansions. At the turn of the 20^th century rich industrialists of America build their summer homes in Newport. About ten of these magnificent abodes are now open to public. Almost all mansions are within walking distance of each other on and around Bellevue Avenue. A walk along this avenue is a must when you visit. It is a tree lined street and you can see the mansions and their beautiful landscapes in the backdrop as you walk. Most mansions offer guided tours and have different hours of operation every season so you may want to plan your trip accordingly. http://www.newportmansions.org/

The Elms Mansion

I recommend a walk along Bowen’s wharf and Commercial wharf. The waterfront restaurants on the wharf are great. My favorite is - “The Deck” on Waites Wharf. Delicious food with beautiful views of the harbor, the little boats and the sails sailing away. http://www.waiteswharf.com/atthedeck.html

Huge Anchor at Bowen’s Wharf

There are a ton of local boutiques, galleries and cafés along cobblestone roads. If you like to collect pieces of art or fine jewelry you will not be disappointed and even if you hate shopping you will certainly fall in love with the ambiance.

Market Square

Newport Rhode, Island has a very colonial feel to it. Its grandeur is enchanting and its location is mesmerizing. It has many Victorian style hotels, I recommend at least an overnight stay. 

Central Park and Lincoln Center – New York City

Having grown up in Mumbai, New York City is the closest I could feel to home. Like Mumbai, NYC is crowded, fast, busy and noisy yet like Mumbai, New York has place for everyone. I had lived in Boston for a year and half before I moved to New York City. The chaos in New York City was intimidating at first but soon I started to appreciate the city. Trust me; The Big Apple has something for everyone.

My favorite place in New York City is the Central Park. Right in the center of Manhattan Borough of New York City, lies an 800 acres of lush-green park. It starts from the 51^st street and runs all the way to 110^th. It is one of the largest man made parks in the world with an annual maintenance budget of $40 mn! 

Bethesda Fountain at Central Park

There are many entrances to Central Park. My favorite place to get into the park is from the mid-town west side at Columbus Circle. Best way to see Central Park is to rent a bike. Once you get there, you will see many businesses renting bikes by the hour, right outside the entrance. They will ask for $15 but will rent it out for $10/hour if you quibble a little. Every additional hour is $5.

Central Park

Walking out from Central Park after an hour of biking makes me feel relaxed and rejuvenated. It is almost like a therapy. So, with all the energy and enthusiasm, when the sun goes down, it’s time to head towards Lincoln Center which is five blocks from Columbus Circle on Broadway (between 65^th and 66^th streets)

Lincoln Center

Lincoln Center is quite a contrast from Central Park. It is a performance art center. With nice infrastructure and lighted steps which says “welcome” in almost every language, the place is truly welcoming. Chances are that you might bump into fashion models wearing Prada and corporate honchos in their Armani. But what attracts me the most are the beautiful fountains. In summer-time, you can lie down on the sides of the fountain, stare at the sky or if you choose, stare at the high flyers of NYC and feel the mist on your face.

Fountain At Lincoln Center

Going to Central Park and then sitting by the fountains of Lincoln Center is like going from one spa to another. Try it; it’s the best way to spend an evening in New York City!