"A tiny little bite out o ..." a New York City Travel Page by pchamlis

New York City has often been called the Greatest City in the World. And in many ways, it just might be. I would not even pretend to pass judgement as to which of the world's great metropoli sits atop the summit. But suffice to say that "The Big Apple" has a little bit of everything going for it.

My wife and I recently spent a long weekend in the theater district, celebrating our wedding anniversary. That's one beautiful thing about NYC. You can spend just a few days and yet do so much. And, you can do this sort of quickie vacation over and over, enjoying some different facet of the Big Apple each time.

Biting into the Big Apple is very satisfying for a traveller. But, I kind of believe that taking lots and lots of little bites might be the best way.

New York City has a long and well-chronicled history. Many people may not remember that it WAS the first capital city of our country. George Washington spent most of his presidency (1789-1797) in the city. As our nation grew into a regional and then world power, NYC was at the forefront of everything that represented America.

Perhaps this is the reason that the city was chosen as a prime target in the September 11th attacks. The heinous cowards who authored this affront to all decency in this world incorrectly assumed they'd be able to stymie America by aiming for the head. But, they failed to consider that we are all about heart, too, in the USA. Their grievous miscalculation of the strength and dedication that IS America led to a national renewal of patriotism and love, unseen for decades.

That's the beautiful thing about the world's greatest democracy. We may argue among ourselves a bit....maybe even more than a bit. But, we care and we live. We believe in what our country and its spirit stands for. And we honor and revere our heroes, those who've paid the ultimate price for our freedom and blessings.

September 11th was meant to bring America to her knees. Instead, it challenged her to greater heights.

The photo accompanying this chapter was taken inside St. Paul's Chapel, at 209 Broadway. This little church is right across from the WTC site, and miraculously survived the attack(s). This congregation has a long history of ministering in times of need, and I'd sincerely recommend a short visit to their sanctuary. (Please see my General Tip on St. Paul's)

Whether it's your first or fiftieth visit to the Big Apple, it's hard to not be awestruck by all that surrounds you. You're constantly craning your neck to see the tops of the buildings surrounding you. Around every corner is something new, different and interesting. One could maybe debate as to whether NYC is really the greatest city in the world. But one thing is for sure...

It is sooooooooo worth the visit. And be prepared to fall completely in love. The land of oooohs and ahhhhs indeed.