Glad you enjoyed the last blog, I was not sure how it sounded.

Anyway, these last two days have had me wondering what to do. It was either a more relaxed day yesterday and Central Park today, but after consideration, I decided the latter should be on Thursday. Oh, by the way Rockefeller is smaller than the Empire State which partly blocks the view from the top of the rock; otherwise, its still as good and less queueing. Hopeflully, Chelski lose and Man U win.

Thursday 6th May - I did an extensive subway journey (on three lines) finishing up at 72nd St just west of Central Park, next to Dakota and Strawberry Fields (John Lennon). The subway journey is also the way I shall have to go to get to my hostel, minus one stop. This lady from Queens started speaking to me about her son, the college fees etc - goes to show that americans are jolly nice talk-to-anyone people. I sat on top of a rock in Central Park looking out over "The Lake" and the NY skyline over the trees. Such a peaceful and quiet place to be, despite being in the middle of the big apple. I think that Central Park was the highlight of my NY stop as its so big, quiet and such a contrast to that of the streets of NY. Oh, and by the way Catherine, I could not see the Friends Cafe, Central Perk. Whilst in Central Park, I sat down a few times just to take everything in; the Park, New York, the people, costs etc. As you shall know, my criticsm of the american accent means nothing here; its all around me but I am getting used to it. I must say that it is scary that there is such a strong visual display of guns here; I saw police getting out (Friday 7th) getting out of a van armed with M16-or similar weapons. Got back from Central Park rather tired and watched a few programmes and films, including Final Destination 3, which was cut substantially from my dvd. The amount of breaks in both programmes and films is unbelievable; seems its every 5 mins!

Friday 7th May - To start with, I must say that I am getting rather fed up now being alone in New York; you can't go to a pub, restuarant etc; being alone limits your choices. I am looking forward to Saturday where I can meet some people and most signifcantly, on Sunday when my tour gets underway. After a lazy morning packing my bag (its still jam packed without my sleeping bag in, although a spot lighter), I left my room at 12ish and went walking and a bit of tourist shopping; purchasing a NY registration plate, NY Yankees baseball bat pen and a NY t-shirt. Purchased a Pretzel today, yet to eat but will take a picture. This week seems to have gone quick. After returning from Central Park yesterday, my A/C is now present which has made the room alot cooler; there is still a lack of sunlight in my room due to be direction of my room and the close proximity of the building to the west next door. I think if I am honest, I shalln't stay at this hotel again; don't get me wrong, the staff are friendly and the room is cozy, its just the lack of space in my room and the decoration of the room is not up to our standards (Dad). I need to find some space for my new purchases, and saying that I'm thinking of getting rid of my fleece as it takes up space, and judging from the hot weather (all week, cloudless skies, strong sun, high heat), I don't think I am going to need it - just a thought at the moment.

Love to you all, Jonathan