We had a jam packed weekend in NYC and one of the things that Mary bought me for my birthday was a helicopter ride to see Manhattan by helicopter. Understand this folks...I hate flying. I do it because it is the fastest way to get from point A to B and to suggest that I would get into a helicopter to fly around the city....trust me it was not even in my top 50 things to do list. Mary however, decided otherwise and on the day of the flight we lucked out with the bluest skies you have ever seen. Still nervous and the fact that they are asking you for your weight we loaded into the helicopter. I was actually sweating at the time of take off. But then there was a revelation and all of my fears and nervousness just evaporated. The ride was as smooth as silk and very quiet (perhaps because we had headphones on) but since I was by the window seat I could point out all of Manhattan and the famous sites and buildings to Mary and all of your anxiety just disappears.
We flew over Governors Island, Brooklyn, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty up the entire west side all the way to Yankee Stadium and the George Washington Bridge back down the New Jersey shore line back out over Staten Island and circled in to land at the heliport. The whole trip took about 25 minutes and I have to say I was pretty overwhelmed with the beauty of the city and sharing it with Mary. It was sensational. I would recommend it to everyone. It is expensive but it is a once in a lifetime experience. If you are going to go with anyone go with Liberty Helicopters. They are supremely professional and run like a Swiss watch. Very nice and very courteous. You will have to pay $40 tax (city tax) when you get there. That caught us off guard but that aside these folks have this down to a fine art. They are pros!!!!!
Thank you Liberty for one heck of a birthday experience.