A Magical Evening

TEA AROUND TOWN IN NEW YORK

On Saturday, I had one of the most memorable days of my life “Tea Around Town” (in York – with my cousin, Sharon, and three of her closest friends (Kim, Betty and Ms. Hayes) and Aunt Sydell. Due to the hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Games in New Jersey, many of the streets in Manhattan had been cordoned off so we had a late start. Two postponements and we have a final take off time at 7:00p.m. with a change in the departure location.

Sharon was responsible for organizing the arrangements and because she is a woman who understands fine living and she opted for the “Premium Package” and so we were seated on the Top Tier of the bus. We were also treated to special finger food delights including Triple Crown Steak Stack (with ribeye steak and gruyere cheese), Garden Chicken Salad Soiree, Nautical Splendor Lobster Roll and Light and Green Egg Sandwich.

When we boarded the bus, we were greeted by an affable young man who gave a very warm welcome and complimented our outfits. We all wore pink in keeping with the theme of the bus. The bus was opulently decorated with beautiful white, pink and gold flowers. The tables were set all in pink with gold cutlery. There was a three tiered tray with the most delectable sweet and savory offerings including cucumber sandwiches, croissants, cinnamon scones, cheese cake and chocolate mousse as well as the premium options. Each tray served two persons. There were also a pot of strawberry jam and a small pot of clotted cream. A bottle of Artisan water was also on the table. Each person was gifted two cups for the tasting of four exquisite teas: two hot (lukewarm) and two cold (Lavender Mint and Peach).

The first major site was the Empire State Building. What a majestic view when we looked through the rooftop of the bus. Its magnificence was mind-blowing. There were other historic landmarks that impressed me including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Burberry Building, Vanderbilt Building, Rockefeller Headquarters, Columbus Circle and Central Park. In addition, we passed by the Fashion District of New York where we got a glimpse of many luxury fashion brands like the Louis Vuitton flagship store which immediately gave me a craving to buy luggage. We also saw stores like Dior, Gucci, Prada, Tiffany , Mikimoto, and Fendi to name a few. This evoked memories of the Magnificent Mile, Chicago’s retail epicenter, which I visited several years ago. At the time, it was said that it was worth $1 billion in retail business. What was also exciting was that fact that the host shared some interesting facts, Central Park has been in more than 400 films and did you know that some United Nations diplomats are restricted for a 25 mile radius around Columbus Circle. Imagine, being in the United Nations for 26 years and unaware of this imposition by the U.S. State Department. You live and learn. We also got a treat of seeing some of the carriages around Central Park.

Another highlight of the evening was the live entertainment. The multitalented host also serenaded us with old time hits. In particular, his rendition of “Fly Me to the Moon” was mesmerizing and made everyone feel special. Kim was captivated. She was just grooving and was encouraging Sharon to join him in a duet. Lol! Eventually, it was time to sing Happy Birthday for all the birthday girls. He did a great job!

There was so much food that we obviously had to have a takeaway box which was willingly offered. We had gotten two cups as souvenirs which I was happy to receive. The host bade us farewell in his gentlemanly fashion and everyone was “tickled pink.” The trip lasted 90 minutes and it was one of the most enchanting evenings that I have had in a long time. It was the perfect blend of culture, luxury, glamour, deep friendship, family ties, education and joyful celebration which will leave an indelible mark for me in the years to come.

Thank you dearest Sharon!