New York, Las Vegas and San Francisco

Even before we land we have a real treat in store. The plane flies past New York so we get the best view we have ever seen. If you are flying to Newark then sit on the left hand side so that you get the same view! The plane lands at lunch time and we  get an Airlink shuttle to the hotel. This was not exactly a success as it took over an hour for us to get a lift as opposed to the maximum wait of 20 minutes promised. Whilst waiting we saw lots of people picked up by Super Shuttle so I think they might have been a better choice.

However, not to worry as we are in New York!! The Marriott Courtyard Midtown East was in a really good location, central to a  lot of places such as the Empire State Building and Times Square. We had a room on the 27th floor so wonderful views through the floor to ceiling windows. No time to dawdle though - once checked in to the hotel, we dash out again and head for the Empire State Building. No queues at 6pm so we go straight to the top. The evening is wonderfully clear so we get some lovely photos.

On the way back to the hotel, we pass the Chrysler Building and stop by Grand Central Terminal. We  grab some food here in Zocalo downstairs. I am a vegetarian and there were a few things for me to choose from - I only get a starter but this is HUGE. Full and tired, we head back to the hotel for an early night (actually 2am at home!).