Like anyone else who lives amongst the hustle and bustle of New York City, it is understandable as to why escaping for a few days to breath is essential. My recent escape was to East Hampton where I was spoiled to be around amazing friends, my favorite ice cream from Scoop du Jour, perfectly bloomed Hydrangeas, and MB Regan’s SoulCycle class. But as I was riding on the Hampton Jitney slowly getting father and farther away from the weekend bliss, my smile still stayed wide and strong. Happy, Happy. Stepping off the bus and back onto the concrete streets of Manhattan, my smile was still prominent, but I immediately began to list in my head everything that I needed to get done for the remainder of the day.
I threw my Cinda B duffel onto my bed, and made Trader Joe’s the first destination on my to-do list. But as I approached the grocery store, I just couldn’t stop walking. I wasn’t ready to let the relaxation that I had maintained in the Hamptons fade away just quite yet. So, I kept walking…
iPod turned up. “Smile” by Avril Lavigne came on, and I began to think of everything in my life that always makes me smile…my friends, my family, my incredible boyfriend…and then I remembered one place I love to visit to relax…the long stroll along the Hudson.
As I began walking towards downtown beside the water, I breathed in fresh air and spotted other happy faces. Suddenly, the concrete began to fade and everything green appeared in front of me. It was Battery Park…a place I regretfully don’t make it down to very often. I was stunned.
Sailboats, flowers, wooden paths…all were right here in Manhattan. This magical place that I would be willing to travel miles for (like the 3 hour commute to the Hamptons) was a 10 minute subway ride from my apartment. I felt like I was still out of town.
Gigino at Wagner Park
View from Gigino
I came across the most adorable restaurant that would fit in perfectly in East Hampton called Gigino at Wagner Park, where the view from their back porch attracted many to come back for a glass of white to watch the sun go down. If you’re looking for a different spot to dine after work, throw your flip flops in your bag, and call up your “hercules,” parents, or a great friend and walk to this place…the caprese is phenomenal.
As I left this beautiful area of the city and en route back home, I got the rest of my errands done (including Trader Joe’s!). While I was at the grocery, I spotted the most beautiful Hydrangeas (like in the Hamptons), and picked some up too. Walking home with brown paper bags filled of food and flowers, I felt so happy…smiling wide. When people wonder why I smile so much…that’s why!
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