Lens-Artists Challenge #78 – Special Spot Shots
“One belongs to New York instantly, one belongs to it as much in five minutes as in five years.”
Tom Wolfe
This week Ann-Christine’s challenge gives me an opportunity to highlight some of the many special spots we visited during last week’s holiday visit to NYC. I’ve opened with an image that feels as if it might have been made a hundred years ago or yesterday. As I captured the scene, it reminded me a bit of Paris. Interestingly the building on the left houses a wonderful French market, bar and restaurant – Le District. I’ve included a colorful capture of its interior below.
“Every true New Yorker believes with all his heart that when a New Yorker is tired of New York, he is tired of life.”
Robert Moses
Le District’s food is authentic French, down to the perfect sandwichs au jambon (ham sandwiches) which took me right back to my days as a student in France. Back then we’d lunch almost daily on crusty French loaves smeared with butter and filled with fresh, thick ham and sometimes delicious brie cheese. Le District makes them exactly the same way, and if you’ve a mind to, their pomme frites (french fries) bar offers 20+ varieties. As a true melting pot, one of the beauties of NYC is its ability to deliver most any cuisine, done perfectly, around virtually any corner.
“New York City, it is a place apart. There is not its match in any other country in the world.”
Pearl S. Buck
Like most NYC holiday visitors, we’ve spent time in midtown Manhattan visiting the magical Rockefeller Center area and the incredible holiday store windows. This time however, we stayed with our family and took in some of lower Manhattan’s special sights. The image above struck me as quintessential NYC – skyscrapers next to crazy wall art, across from the winged, white Oculus and of course the ever-present crowds awaiting a change of the light.
“New York is the biggest collection of villages in the world.”
Alistair Cook
In the image above I’ve captured a small piece of the interior of the Oculus, a spot made special by its innovative architecture. Once inside one instantly understands the architect’s vision, which he has fulfilled masterfully. The building is filled with light, even two stories underground. Directly overhead there is an end-to-end row of windows showcasing the nearby towering skyscrapers. It is truly a special must-see for anyone visiting New York.
“A son for a flag is a lot of sacrifice.”
Tucker Elliott
Speaking of special places, the area also houses the 9/11 Memorial and its Museum. The ground has been beautifully preserved and is revered by all who visit. There are two massive, square granite waterfall pools located on the twin towers’ footprints, each covering over an acre of space. The names of each of the 2,983 victims are engraved in bronze around the pools. 400 white oaks surround the ponds (shown in today’s header image), as well as a “Survivor” pear tree found severely damaged at Ground Zero and nursed back to health. The memorial and its incredibly moving museum are imperative special spots for NYC visitors.
“New York…the most exciting, magical, fraught-with-possibility place that you could ever live”
Nora Ephron
Having grown up across the river in New Jersey, NYC was always a magical place to me. When I was younger I found it immensely exciting, a bit frightening, and happily only a stone’s throw from my more normal life in the Jersey suburbs. In the image above the man at the fence is looking across the Hudson River toward New Jersey – so close by but worlds apart.
“New York. The world’s most dramatic city. Like a permanent short circuit, sputtering and sparking up into the sky all night long.”
Cornell Woolrich
I’ll close (at last) with my image of an iconic snowman in the holiday-adorned Oculus. Most everyone walking by took photos of their loved ones in front of this special spot, including yours truly. I thought it took a hint from Chicago’s beloved bean, and did so admirably. I’m anxious to see if it remains, perhaps sans cap and scarf, at holiday’s end.
Thanks as always to our many followers for their thoughtful responses. Patti, Amy, Ann-Christine and I look forward to virtually visiting your Special Spots. Remember to link them to Ann-Christine’s challenge here, and to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you.
Here’s to 2020, may it be filled with peace and moments of joy for us all.
Just a beautiful post Tina of a place so special in my heart….just fabulous shots…u truly have captured her mystery!!
I wish I could take photos like that
..so creative.
Many thanks!
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Wow, Tina, I really, really definitely want to go there. My goal is still in 2023. Oh dear that is still so far away. Your shots are so inviting.
Teresa
No worries, time flies and I’m sure it will be here before you know it! Thanks Teresa
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A very nice choice for the challenge Tina. The last time I was in NYC, it wasn’t that long after 9/11, I still remember the smell.
Thanks Amy, me too. The good news is it’s now a very beautifully designed memorial and museum. The bad news is those who were lost can never be returned.
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My sister Ginny and her daughter went NYC twice. They said talk about food, from street vendors to sit-down places. I think they ate at a deli, splitting a huge corned beef sandwich. About a ham sandwich, one of the best is fry a piece of ham steak, mayo or mustard, lettuce and tomato, on a toasted whole grain bread. 🙂
It’s really true. The only issue is choosing!
I also grew up in the New Jersey suburbs across the river from NYC. I could see the NYC skyline from a hill near my house! Your photos are beautiful and bring back (somewhat faded!) memories of trips we took when I was young. It was always a big deal – getting dressed up in an itchy wool skirt comes to mind – to go “into the city” – and the restaurants were fantastic even back then. As always, I also enjoy your quotes 🙂
😊 yes “back in the day” we did dress up to go into the city! Afraid those days are long gone!
Stunningly photographed and commented, as usual. I haven’t been to NYC since Calatrava and the Memorial were built. I must see them.
Thanks John. You would love both, I promise. I was so impressed and gratified to see how beautifully and thoughtfully the memorial and museum were done
Tina, wow … New York. I didn’t expect that from you. You are the nature lady for me. Wonderful post about a very exciting city… I don’t love it, but I always have a great time when visit. The image from the memorial is so beautiful, I have one with a white rose. My favourite is “from the other side”. Haven’t been in New York in December since 1976 and I still on the memories of the lights, Rockefeller Centre and the Santa in every corner. That transportation hub, one amazing building. Last time I was in NYC 2013 nothing of the was finished. I’m not wrong I think it’s the Swedish construction company SKANSKA that built it .. together with everything underneath .. and also the World Trade Centre. I remember when they were advertising for workers to bring over. Fantastic result.
LOL, thanks Viveka. I am indeed much more a nature photographer but love to travel and shoot whatever presents itself! I was enchanted by the Oculus and love the serenity of the 9/11 memorial so it was a fun photography day for me. Always nice to step out of our comfort zone, right?! And BTW, you’re right, SANSKA was the primary construction company – who knew?!
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When I visit the 9/11 memorial it was all building site. But behind the blue cover around the area – I found such a peace with myself and the world. I did a post about it. “some amazing people I just met” – https://wp.me/p293Pw-7gf. There behind the blue plastic fence there the world was totally different. Yes, SKANSKA – it was a big thing when they got the contract … and I was over their name was on every crane. The Oculus I want to see … and also the 9/11 museum wasn’t ready. So maybe another trip to NYC for me. I wanted for many years to do a transatlantic cruise with Cunard from Southampton to New York in December. Maybe I should book that cabin. *smile
Excellent idea! I’ll meet you there!!
Beautiful images of New York, Tina! After my visit last spring, I can easily see how NY can be your favorite spot. I was so impressed with it, especially with Calatrava’s masterpiece, the memorial, and others. I wish I knew the city better. I, for example, had no idea about the French market. Wish I knew :). Beautiful beginning of 2020!
Thanks Svetlana, I do love New York! Every neighborhood has its own personality and there is so much to see and do. It’s an amazing place really. As for the French Market, you’ll just have to come back!
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Thank you for this insider’s look at the Big Apple, Tina. Stunning photos as ever give us a feel of the place.
Thanks Wendy. As they say NYC is like a thousand different neighborhoods, this is just one of them. It just happens to be one of my favorites😊
T… these are fabulous… NY has always intrigued me and I love seeing it thru your lens…
Thanks GF, happy to bring them to you 😊
Sent from my iPhone
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Beautiful images Tina and thank you for the tour of these special places! xxx
My fav pleasure Xenia!
amazing spectacular shots …great work of excellence Tina Ji Man made , architecture stands out .
Thank you AWD, glad these struck a chord with you
yes as far as the talent, and ‘ham is prohibited in our religion…wonderful that you studied in France …being a student of history France was part of the Masters course, later while writing about knitting, I found scary stories of French tricoters during the Revolution, interesting , thought provoking post Tina.
Hi Tina, I adore ALL of these NY photos, but especially the B&W that leads off. I agree with you that it has an absolutely timeless feel about it. Here’s my contribution to this challenge https://babsjeheron.wordpress.com/2020/01/05/the-great-blue-herons-favorite-cove/ Happy New Year. Best, Babsje
Thanks so much Babsje, and all the best to you in 2020 as well
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T. You can add me to your list of folks who haven’t been to NYC for a while. Your images are stunning. Who could have done it better than Calatrava. His signature wing style shoring towards the heavens from a place that endured such sadness.
Thanks Kathy. Must admit the exterior is still a bit jarring to me but the interior is simply a masterpiece!
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Wow, Tina. This is fabulous. A great “snapshot” of a diverse cultural mecca with wonderful sights and architecture. I must see the Oculus on our next visit.
Thanks Patti, you’d love it I know. Honestly I was blown away!
I am sure I’ll love it.
three cheers for New York – it is dramatic city and love the quote with “sputtering and sparking up into the sky all night long.”
the first photo really is timeless and then going from that to a few colorful images made a nice effect here – along with feelings of space and culture.
Thanks Yvette. It really is an international city!
😊
NYC…well captured Tina. It’s been a while since I’ve been there, makes me want to go back for a visit. Really like the first shot looking down the tree lines and the flower shot is perfect.
Thanks Andy. NYC today is very different than it was before 9/11, especially in lower Manhattan. Well worth a re-visit
New York is absolutely gorgeous and more so as seen from your lens . Loved the shiny bean snow man and the Oculus building looks so futuristic. Fantastic captures Tina!
Thanks Sheetal, both were new to me this time around and I really enjoyed them!
All my life I’ve resisted visiting New York City. Recently my mind has been changed and it’s now on my list. Thank you for giving me some views that solidify my change of heart. My favorite? Of course, it’s the black-and-white. 🙂
hey johnbo – had to chime in real quick – I also resisted visiting NYC because int he 80s it was rather daunting. however, in the last 20 years the place has been transformed and now I am eager to go as often as I can
Thanks! I will have to get started with the plan! Not much for crowds, so I will avoid those holiday times.
yes – and check ahead for packages – some restaurants and broadway shows have really cool packages – Tina might know of some 🙂
😊but if course John! NYC can be very intimidating but there is so much to see that is outside of the glam and glitz, honest!
New York is a unique city for sure. Perfectly delightful photos, of your special NY spots . 😍
Thanks Sylvia.
One of our greatest treasures in our country and the world and is always a memorable visual treat to visit.
I agree Sally, it’s really a place one needs to see to appreciate
Stunning images, Tina, of a very special spot! I appreciate your skills even more because I know I will never see this place in person. Love your opener and the totally fantastic Oculus!
Thanks A-C. But remember, never say never!!!
;-D
I have been to a lot of places, but New York is not one of them. Maybe one day. Wonderful photo tour, Tina.
It’s truly unique. As the saying goes, love to visit but wouldn’t want to live there 😊😊
If I ever may it back to New York I hope to remember to visit here, you’ve highlighted in a most appealing way!
Thanks for the tour.
My pleasure Dawn, it’s a very interesting part of the city, so different from the usual glitz!
Your images are stunning. I agree with you that the 9/11 Memorial is a must see place in NYC.
Thanks Beth, I think it’s perfect really. Cannot imagine it any other way
That first quote encompasses NYC so perfectly to me, and your whole post just showed the city, I love it.
Thanks WC, glad you enjoyed this one.
You have captured so beautifully my favorite city in the US. It is such a blend of old and every neighborhood having its own unique flavor and appeal. Now I have several new things to see there when we return!
I agree Gin, one could never exhaust all of the places to see in NYC!
I’ve never been to New York, but have ‘virtually’ visited it many times. This time I saw it through fresh eyes. Thanks!
My pleasure Margaret- hope you visit one day.
🙂
From my trip to the United States, I remember with great emotion my (too) quick visit to New York.
Great post!!! 🙂
Thanks Ana. Sounds like you need to go back 😊
Tina, love your photos of “my special place”, your written words…and the quote of Nora Ephron.
I’m sure u know it much better than I do Wilma! Thank you for your lovely comment as always
Really special shots of NYC! – One of my favorites is the “LOWER MANHATTAN – WILD AND CRAZY”
Thanks Tatiana. U know what they say…I love New York !! 😊
Much nicer if you can stay with someone and a lot cheaper!! It seems so odd to see photo from NYC on your site, even though they’re fine shots. I’m just so used to mostly nature from you. So much to see there but a bit overwhelming to me. As for their Bean…well, nice thought, but no. 😂. Happy 2020.
janet
LOL the the bean Janet. Yes I know what you mean about city vs nature on my site Janet. Something a bit different for me
I like going into Chicago sometimes, but it’s always nice to get back home and even nicer to get to Wyoming for vacation 😁
Beautiful captures of the big city!!
Thanks Nora
Fantastic! We will be visiting New York very briefly on our way to Iceland to meet up with with Gary Hart and Don Smith later this month. We will be checking out the new Hudson Yards center on the lower West side. So here’s another quote: A day in New York City is worth a week anywhere else. I said that.
Oh I do love Hudson Yards as well altho we didn’t get there on this trip. Have you done the High Line? It’s a photographer’s dream altho perhaps not in winter, but it leads you right to the Yards. And I ADORE your quote Michael!!!
Thank you! We try to do the Highline every time I go to the city. I never get tired of it.
I must get to New York one day. It has always been one of those cities that have to be seen in person to appreciate. Le District and the Oculus are fabulous and your photos are marvellous Tina. I’m not a person for memorials and especially crowds, so I prefer those quieter spots you discovered. One day.
I hope so Jude, it’s a truly incredible place. You can go from crazy frenzy to peaceful nature in just a block or two. Thanks for the lovely comment
What a wonderful post of an amazing city that I hope to visit one day too! Absolutely love that shot of lower Manhattan and its wall art against the gigantic glimmering skyscrapers in the back!! Happy New Year, Tina! 😄
Thanks Sarah. We’re fortunate to be able to visit now and then. Hope you make it one day soon
What a terrific visit to NYC, Tina! Your photos are beautuful! I visited the 911 memorial two years ago and your photos brought tears to my eyes again.
Thanks so much Susan. I too find the memorial very moving every time. If you’ve not been to the museum, it’s extraordinary
I have. We had a wonderful tour guide and it was, indeed, extraordinary. We all remember that day and the time following, don’t we.
We sure do 😢
The photo of CALATRAVA AT CHRISTMAS was incredible! Never even knew it exists! Pretty sad considering I’m a New Yorker!
LOL, it’s brand new Laurel. I think it was 11 years from choice of the design to its opening which I think was last year. Check it out next time you’re up there!
Such beauty and colors; variety in a city filled with variety! That Oculus is amazing! Stunning photos and writing, Tina. Well done!
Thank you Alexandria. I’d not seen it before so it was a treat for me too!
A great city, it’s especially beautiful during the holiday season. I miss it.
I love your captures of the Oculus. These are special spot shots, Tina!
Thanks Amy, glad you enjoyed these. We’d visited the museum and memorial in the past, which are beautiful, but the Oculus was new to me!
I had fun with you visiting your special spots Tina 🙂 a great gallery for sure
Thanks Brian – thinking of you and hoping the fires are staying far away.
Thanks Tina ❤
Great post and fantastic collection of amazing photos! New York city is such a beautiful place to explore and photograph and I guess you can easily spend days there without getting bored. Thanks for sharing and have a good day 😀 Aiva
Oh that is definitely true Aiva. They pack more variety into a small space than you can imagine! Thanks for visiting and for your lovely comment.
Marvellous set of images, Tina!
Beautiful images Tina; your love for the place really shines through.
Thanks Su – have spent lots of time there. Great to visit but a bit to frenzied for me. Love being there, always happy to get home 🙂
I feel that way about all cities these days 😂
I have never heard of the Le District before. I will need to check it out on some future visit to that part of Manhattan.
Thanks Chava, it’s brand new and really, really good!
Makes me want to take a trip! I’ve not seen Le District or the Oculus, but you make them very appealing.
Both are new Sharon, and both well worth a visit! Happy New Year to you and Bill
Hope your 2020 is HAPPY! 😘😘😘
Great photos TIna – everything in NY seems so big – the huge tall buildings, even the snowman.
Thanks Karina – NYC can definitely be overwhelming at times. They do tend to “go big” there! But honestly, lower Manhattan is much more approachable than midtown IMHO