“I’m so excited! And I just can’t hide it,” the song that describes my emotion while on an 18-hr trip to New York from Manila. I’ve been wanting to go to New York for the longest time. The last time mom and I planned my trip to the US was last 2010 but never pushed through. That’s why I can’t deny my excitement for this trip.

Just a short background about my loving mom who never failed to give me the support I need. One evening mid 2015, I blurted out I wanted to go to New York before I turn 25 in 2016. She didn’t hesitate and gave me a positive response with a smile. It wasn’t a quick straight yes, but it was leaning towards that. I thought I had to convince her with all my reasons, which were actually legit reasons. I was actually ready with my list to answer her ‘whys.’ But nope! She already knew my heart’s desire even before explaining my side to her. The desire to travel to New York immediately became a plan. The bonus part here is that mom also decided to travel with me to New York and to San Francisco! WAAHHH!! All by God’s grace! It was really God who used my mom to be a big blessing to my life.

Fast forward to last November, mom and I flew to New York via Philippine Airlines (PAL). We only had 1 quick layover in Canada, then landed in New York without any problems nor delays.

No traffic along the highway. Although when we reached midtown of the city, that’s where we slowed down and experienced real traffic in New York. This is nothing if you’re coming from Manila! Hahaha!

For our first hotel in New York, we stayed in the most desirable neighborhood in the city, Tribeca. Tribeca means ‘triangle below Canal Street.’ Located in Lower Manhattan near Soho, it is where Taylor Swift, Meryll Streep, Beyoncé, Chris Martin of Coldplay and Gwyneth Paltrow live.

On our first day, we didn’t want to tire ourselves too much. Explored more of our Tribeca neighborhood by walking around. We also found a spot for dinner, AOA Bar & Grill.

 My ‘welcome to New York’ American style burger, AOA Burger. House blended beef topped with aged cheddar, Nueske’s bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion and chipotle mayo. The huge chunk beef patty was enough for mom and I to share.

A dozen of AOA Wings in mild spicy flavor sat on our table next. Cheers to real American food!!!

What do you think of my first day in New York?

Share with me your thoughts! 🙂

Cheers,