New York! New York!

I've just returned from my first visit to the Big Apple in 25 years and found it a very different place. Back then it was a hot, dirty, noisy and slightly scary place (not least because it was August, I was only 23 and addicted to American police dramas). This time it was chilly, clean, less noisy and felt as safe as I'd feel anywhere. Of course it was February but sightseeing in Times Square after midnight was magic!

Here is a selection of my favourite photos from the weekend.

1. The Apple store from inside the entrance.


2. Me and Him on 5th Avenue.


3. Chrysler Building and Grand Central Station


4. Same again, only closer. Love this one.


5. Love this one too - about 12:30am on Sunday Feb 15th, Times Square. People were posing by the heart for their Valentine's Day pictures.


6. 30 Rock. I love all the Art Deco design in Rockefeller Plaza


7. Last time I was in NY I went up the Empire State Building. This time I was able to photograph it. Ironically, last time, I was irritated by the World Trade Center because it was so big it spoiled the views. This time there was a clear view across and I was sad that I have no photos of the Twin Towers.


8. Zoomed in on Central Park and beyond.


9. What were once tall buildings... I like looking for the old amongst the new.


10. Reflections - a great design trick giving the illusion that the building isn't really there.


There wasn't time to see or do much more than this. We spent a lot of time sitting at tables in restaurants, talking and catching up. In between we probably walked about four miles Saturday evening and another mile or two on Sunday before we had to leave the city and head back north. I can't wait to go again - and I can't believe that I haven't been before.