Day 32 - New York City

This morning we got up early and headed to the bike rental shop to do the 2 hour guided bike ride through Central Park. We tried to do this yesterday but it was already full and they don't take reservations. It was a really good way to see some of the park and we had plenty of stops to see various things in the park including Strawberry Fields which is a memorial garden for John Lennon who lived and was shot and killed across the road. One thing I did not know about Central Park is that it is a man made park. Even the hills etc were designed and created by man. We also saw the only straight walkway in the park which has had many films shot on it. The tour guide was good and it was just a really nice casual ride through Central Park.

We then went and got some lunch at Chelsea Market which is a large indoor food market. With a lot of different options to choose from.

We then walked along the high wire which was only opened about a couple of years ago. It used to be a raised rail line that

was used to transport goods but then when it stopped getting used it was to expensive to do anything with it. In the end a trust got set up to look after it. They have planted plants etc all along it and created a raised walkway/park with places to eat lunch etc. it was a good walk but I don't think anything could beat going along to Central Park for lunch.

Not long after we ended up at Madison Square Park (not the entertainment centre) and had a look at the flatiron Building. As we were then heading to the Lincoln Centre it started raining so we caught a cab back to the apartment and grabbed some pizza for tea.

Amy and I then headed along to Gershwin Theatre to see Wicked. It was awesome, the stage was similar size to Phantom of the Opera and it also had lots of set pieces and special effects. I think the highlight of Wicked is the story it covers a lot more than I thought it was going to and has lots of subtle throwbacks to the Wizard of Oz. if you ever have a chance to see it I would highly recommend it, although I would say that about any that I have seen so far. I have decided that I'm no linger going to try and pick a favorite show as they are all quite different and all have their own special qualities. Chicago was simple with great effect, Rock of Ages was funny and made fun of being a musical with familiar rock tunes, Phantom of the Opera was a

classic and more of an opera with a great use of the set and theatre and Wicked had an awesome story. So they all have their place on the list and it is too hard to compare.

Check back tomorrow for the next update!