Wanderings in Manhattan - How to Get Around in the City

Subway is the best transportation tool for traveling in Manhattan. Why? It's being known as one of the worst systems, in term of security and efficiency, etc. Similar to the public order of the city, it has been improved sharply in the recent years. I found it was safe for single traveler like me. If you really concern safety, just choose a car with patrol or scan through the cars before getting on. Just a note that some beggars will take subway on weekends morning.

The network there is very comprehensive. As it almost covers most tourism spots, it's very convenient to travel around. Another advantage is subway can save you from losing valuable time in traffic jam. Cost is very important too. Buy one-day pass if you will consume subway services 4 times or more a day. Or buy 7-day pass for longer stay.
Yet, the over hundred-year-old system is aging. Thus, lots of rejuvenation works often take place on weekends, like re-routing. So, don't forget always take a subway map with you in case you have to change your transportation plan.

Some subway stations are decorated in line of famous landmarks of its location. This cute elephant tile reflects the American Museum of Natural History is around.
Bus is also a low priced transportation tool. It may not be very convenient for those who are not familiar with the city. Also, it is easily caught by congestion during peak hours.

Alternatively, limousine or car rental services are available in Manhattan. This limousine with 10 pax capacity was hired by my friend on wedding day. It does look cool for big occasions. For long distance travel (between Manhattan and New Jersey) at night, the rate was reasonable though not cheap. I felt very satisfied with the services as it was very reliable and safe. I didn't prefer cab because my friends and me once met a dishonest driver. Next, the drivers compete crazily to get customers that endanger others' lives.

Sightseeing bus services probably suitable for tourists who wanna visit tourism spots door to door. But quite expensive for those with limited and money.

Wanderings in Manhattan - Advertisement Jungle

Welcome to the Big Apple! These animated and digital billboards indicate you have arrived the centre of Manhattan, Times Square. Don't tell people you have visited the Big Apple if you haven't left your footprint on this famous landmark.


Heavy traffic in busy city,

bombarded by numerous animated / digital outdoor advertisements.


Broadway is around. Why not pick a musical if you have time.

Kung Fu Panda combines the 2 most prominent elements of China in the Westerner's eyes.

Wanderings in Manhattan - Shoot Me, Baby ~

"Here's your best photo shoot" (in Tyra Bank's tone).


The guy in picture is known as "Naked Cowboy" because of his outfit. He likes being (photo) shot. Don't forget to pay tips after shooting. Otherwise, his assistant will come up to you and explained tips is required for shooting the cowboy's show.

After years of hard work, the name, "Naked Cowboy" has been spread throughout the US. Many people are willing to pay to take photo with this famous cowboy. It is said that he doesn't deliver performance at Times Square as frequent as before. Wanna shoot him? Try your luck at Times Square on weekends.


If you prefer something soft, you may consider this true man size Elmo or walking Statue of Liberty.

Wanderings in Manhattan - The New York Public Library of "Patience" and "Fortitude"

The classic and elegant appearance reflects the New York Public Library (mid-Manhattan) is a vital cultural heritage of the country.




It is guarded by the lions, "Patience" and "Fortitude" which represents proper learning attitude.


From learning,


one can discover the real beauty and the truth.

Wanderings in Manhattan - The Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art, my second lover in Manhattan. Who's the first? Of course Metropolitan.


Violence is a form of modern art?


Actually, the fan is an installation art. The swinging fan attracts kids chasing it as a bird.


What is awaiting behind of these geometric sculpture and yellow corridor?



Your shadow in rainbow color.


Furry cup set and lego models from design gallery.



Monet, a giant of impressionism, whose paintings can be found in the museum as well.


Mix of materials is a presentation of modern arts.



The masterpiece - Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh which led me to the museum.

Wanderings in Manhattan - Starry Night

The most enjoyable memory during my trip is I admired the Vincent van Gogh's masterpiece - Starry Night in museum. It's real, not replica!!! There are so many renowned drawings / paintings in the world. But only Vincent van Gogh's masterpiece - "The Starry Night" can really touch my feeling.

The vibrant brush strokes brings everything in the picture to the real life. I can feel the moon shinning, the stars twinkling, the wind blowing, the tree and grass dancing over a tranquil village .... and the painter's passion when he was painting the scenery ...... and the loneliness ......

Van Gough is recognized as one of the greatest artists the world, however, how many people can understand his strong emotions? Can the composer of the song "Vincent"?

Vincent by Don McLean

Starry, starry night
Paint your pallet blue and grey
Look out on a summers day
With eyes that know the darkness in my soul

Shadows on the hills
Sketch the trees and daffodils
Catch the breeze and the winter chills
In colors on the snowy lined land

Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free

They would not listen
They do not know how
Perhaps they'll listen now

Starry, starry night
Flaming flowers that brightly blazed
Swirling clouds and violet haze
Reflect in Vincent's eyes of china blue

Colors changing hue
Morning fields of amber grey
Whethered faces lined in pain
Are soothed beneath the artists' loving hand

Now I understand
What you tired to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free

They would not listen
They did not know how
Perhaps they'll listen now

For they could not love you
But still your love was true
And when your hope was left inside
On that starry, starry night
You took your life as lovers often do

But I could have told you, Vincent
This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you

Like the strangers that you've met
The ragged man in ragged clothes
The silver thorn
A bloody rose Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow

Now I think I know
What you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free

They were not listening
They're not listening still
Perhaps they never will

Wanderings in Manhattan - Early Morning in Central Park

Lying in the prime location of Manhattan, Central Park is considered as the lung of the metropolis since it provides green environment and fresh air to the New Yorkers.

A running race held in the early morning in the park.


A sweet couple spent their weekend morning throughout the park by carriage.


One of my favorite scenes, consists of sky, green plants and water.

Wanderings in Manhattan - Concrete Trees in Jungle

Concrete jungle consists of various concrete trees. One can love the jungle as a whole but not necessarily love every tree.

This luxury tree is located on the Fifth Avenue where is surrounded by brands aiming high markets. The sculptured door is my favourite.


The Rockefeller Center is a complex of trees that was planted in the golden age of capitalism. It houses a number of top-tier companies of the us and even the world. Being a Greek myths lover, I am attracted to the Zeus decoration and the Prometheus sculpture.



St Patrick's Cathedral is considered as "the noblest temple". The answer can be found in its scale, architecture and building materials. etc.


Sculptures can often catch my attention.



The inner beauty of the United States Post Office Building is more outstanding. It opens 24-hour a day and have machines selling stamps.

Wanderings in Manhattan - Marching through the Wall Street

Subprime mortgage has thrown a big challenge to the global economic powers, including the US. Yet, it is hardly sense the crisis on Wall Street. Being one of the world's prominent financial centre, Wall Street is still as busy as usual while financial personnel are trying their best to maintain top elite image.


Numerous people worldwide concern US stock performance traded in the New York Stock Exchange.


An information panel introduces details of the landmark. It is very useful for tourists.


Bronze Bull - the most popular shooting model in the district. Remember it asks for no tips.