So finally after much has been said, the trip has begin and where better to kick start any trip with a visit to New York City.

We stayed in the Village Inn hostel in the New York’s east village which we chose for its close proximity to the local nightlife. After spending 4 nights there I can certainly say its an awesome place for a good evenings merriment. However upon our arrival to the hostel we were greeted with this sign which says.

PERILOUS TO LIFE!!! OMG!! WTF!!!

Despite the 2 rooms opposite ours being cornered off for our personal safety the place was clean and had a nice vibe despite the place being half full due to 16!! rooms being out of commission.

As far as daytime activities go we managed to cram in a lot in a short time. We marched over the Brooklyn bridge for the fantastic city skyline shots from Brooklyn heights, posed for (multiple) pics atop of the Rockefeller and empire state building plus we meandered though Greenwich village, chinatown and central park.

I love New York (cheesy huh) and it was great to spend some more time here to fully soak up the unique characters of each of Manhattan community. Next stop the USA capital, Washington D.C.!

Goonies highlight:

• Kev: Drinking in McSorleys, the oldest traditional pub in new york
• Mike: ‘Big Piano’ - Childhood fantasy. Done!
• John: Toying with the skyline at the Rockefeller Center
• Chris: The views at the the top of the Empire State Building 30 minutes after an almighty rain downpour.