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A Short Trip to New York

Ricardo Sanchez

Oct 26, 2023 — 4 min read

I’m fortunate to have access to airport lounges where I can unwind, grab a bite, and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine before my flight. The Delta Sky Club lounge at the Chicago airport is both spacious and comfortable. As I waited for a few hours before my flight to New York, my excitement for the trip grew.

I was in Chicago for work. My company organizes an on-site event annually, and we’re encouraged to attend. I make it a point to participate since it’s an excellent chance to connect with colleagues in person. Each time I travel for this event, I extend my stay by a day to explore downtown Chicago – arguably one of the most picturesque downtowns in the U.S. The majestic buildings lining the Chicago River stand tall, yet to be overshadowed by modern all-glass skyscrapers. While I appreciate contemporary architecture, there’s an undeniable charm and intricacy in older buildings.

This year, however, I couldn’t linger in Chicago. Instead, I’m heading to New York to visit my two adult children. They’ve made their home there, and given that New York is only a short flight away, a visit seemed apt.

Back in the airport lounge, I finished off my coffee and began the brief walk to my gate. Once settled on the plane, I texted my son to let him know I’d be in New York in a few hours. With his help, I was planning to surprise my daughter, who had celebrated her birthday just a day earlier. The flight from Chicago to New York was smooth, even landing about 30 minutes ahead of schedule.

A 45-minute drive from LaGuardia Airport later, I checked into my hotel in the financial district. My son was to meet me there, after which we’d head to SoHo to surprise my daughter. My room was clean and seemed freshly renovated, with the added perk of a splendid view of the Hudson River. While the financial district isn’t my favorite spot for a stroll, its proximity to Battery Park, the nearby piers, and neighborhoods like SoHo, the Villages, and Chelsea make it appealing.

By 6 p.m., my son had joined me. We grabbed a quick bite in the hotel’s club lounge before setting off to SoHo. The anticipation was palpable as we took a train there. On reaching, I ducked into a store next to our designated meeting point, waiting for my daughter to arrive. My son soon signaled that she was there. Stealthily, I maneuvered around a clothing rack to avoid being seen. I “accidentally” bumped into her, feigned indifference, and waited for recognition to dawn on her. “Dad! What are you doing here?” she exclaimed, and we shared a joyful embrace. My son captured the heartwarming moment.

During my four-day stay, I explored new neighborhoods, frequented bookstores, and stopped at numerous coffee shops. Camera in hand, I took countless shots of the city, savoring every moment. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the quality time with my children.

Greenpoint in Brooklyn was a delightful revelation. A residential neighborhood brimming with quaint shops and eateries, it exuded charm. Its lack of ample subway connections might pose a commute challenge, but the lively community and abundant local offerings might mean you wouldn’t feel the need to venture out often. Our walk there was pleasant, made all the more memorable by a scrumptious pizza meal.