Manhattan, New york

Being a New York born-South Florida raised child consisted of trips back and fourth visiting family periodically. Every trip included the "look how big you got!" from the great aunts and "what are you up to nowadays" from the older cousins. This trip was no different, but with the additional excitement of finally introducing my boyfriend of 5 years to my family and sharing the news that I'm moving into my own place next month! (own as in my name on the lease...eep!)

The High Line, NYC.

first stops:

Our first stop in the city was a NYC tradition for me, Artichoke Pizza. My mom and I have been going here for years and crave it after each time. Now known for going viral on Facebook, this joint on the corner truly lives up to its fame. You don't even have to like Artichoke to like this pizza, promise! Down the street from Artichoke was the 14th St. entrance to The High Line (pictured above). We took a nice stroll on the once abandoned rail road track that is now consumed by lush greenery and modern design. 

That evening we were able to catch Alvin Ailey's season opening show and it was absolutely stunning. Being a dancer myself, I find such an immense amount of joy from watching others dance and perform. I know how amazing it feels and I can't help but feel so happy for those dancers who are living their dream! So fluid, so creative, so graceful...I left feeling incredible inspired. Isn't that the goal of art? To inspire? Job well done. 

(P.S. stole this perfectly patched denim jacket from my god moms closet)

(Thanks Josie!)

@oliviapw x @simoneyshot 

I knew going to New York that I wanted to meet up with a photographer and try to get some lifestyle/street shots. After posting on my Instagram about the trip, Simone reached out to me and we made it happen! We met at Union Square and I told her we were planning on grabbing lunch at Chelsea Market. So we started walking and I'm thinking to myself "wait, but where are we going to shoot?" so I ask Simone and she says "on the way!". So that's just what we did. We crossed some roads, passed some street steam, and checked out some plants...Before you knew it we arrived at our lunch spot and went our separate ways. I love how things work out sometimes. 

Photos by Simone Hamilton 

Obanzai- 3 kinds of small appetizers of the day ($15)

​NYC is known for having some of the best sushi restaurants in the country so of course we had to indulge. Another old time favorite and every NY trip MUST is making reservations at Sushi Azabu. My mom took me to Sushi Azabu years ago and it has ruined every other sushi place for me forever. Now known for being a Michelin Star Restaurant, Azabu is in the basement of another restaurant and has an almost hidden entrance. We kept our spending to a minimum (keeping in mind we were moving in a month $$) but boy we could have easily spent $500 just on some damn raw fish. It's THAT good. 



​(p.s. PRO TIP- even if it's not on the menu, ask for the Umeshiso roll and they will make it for you. It's Pickled plum and Shiso Leaf. Unlike anything you've ever tasted and you'll never want the taste to end. TRUST.)

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Nigiri Set- Chef's choice of eight Nigiri and half roll ($60)

Each piece of sushi is handmade with fresh (and still warm) sushi rice, a small dot of Wasabi under the fish, and Soy Sauce brushed lightly on top. The fish simply melts in your mouth like butter. 

central park 

Central Park was on our top priority list for the trip, but we never even considered biking it until we saw the bike rental right outside of the park. Let's just say...we were GAME. 

I would have to say that this bike ride was the highlight of the trip for me. We got so lucky with a GORGEOUS day, and when I say gorgeous I mean just perfect. Just hot enough, with a cool breeze, birds chirping...you know, the whole nine yards. I really used this time to be present and enjoy the incredible nature that surrounded me. 

All in all, this was such an enjoyable trip for me, especially being able to share it with my best friend and boyfriend. Definitely planning a trip back sooner rather than later. 

If you have any recommendations, or questions about my trip comment below! 

​                                                                                                                 Love, Liv.