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Day 1: March 26, 2012
Hello Everyone,
Both groups arrived safely today, and in good spirits. The Alabama contingent arrived first, and they went and explored Times Square. Later, the Idaho contingent arrived and the two groups got acquainted. We then went up to Columbus Circle, and walked from the Time Warner Center, along the southern boundary of Central Park, and then down 5th Avenue. After a stop at F.A.O. Schwartz and the Apple Store, we strolled down 5th past Tump Tower and all the famous shopping. We toured St. Patrick's Cathederal, and Rockefeller Center. We then worked our way to Grand Central Terminal, and then to dinner at the Empire State Building. After dinner we went up to the 86th floor observatory, and watched the city turn from New York by day, to New York by night. Spectacular views of Manhattan were had by all.
The kids arrived at the hotel tired, but enthusiastic. A good night's sleep and a full breakfast, and they will be ready for another full day of sightseeing and adventure, including a visit to lower Manhattan and some of the wonderful neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Little Italy, SoHo, NoHo, Greenwich Village and the Financial District. They will also visit the several attractions, and see a Broadway Show.
Very polite kids, and very pleasant as well. The Group Leaders and the Chaperones are also very nice. It is my personal pleasure to Direct this Tour. I am looking forward to the days ahead. Tomorrow I will have another installment of this Tour Diary, along with some fresh pictures. Jim Ryan.