Truth be told, I wasn’t exactly ecstatic when I learned that a visit to the Statue of Liberty was arranged for my itinerary in NYC. Just to be clear, I have absolutely nothing against the most iconic symbol of the free world, it is the touristy aspect of the trip that makes it less appealing. Then again, I am what I am, a tourist, and who in the right mind would miss out on this? Doesn’t happen every day where you get to see a lady carry a torch for her countryman, now that’s love and dedication.
Had to get up real early to catch the 10:20am ferry at Battery Park. Was having a really hard time shaking off the reluctance to go and the fact that sleep was insufficient the night before sort of made it worse. But I have to admit this, the place is magical. The moment I got up on the upper deck of the boat and saw the amazing skyline…it took my breath away. Almost immediately, I felt like a whole new person.
The journey from Battery Park to Liberty State Park didn’t take too long, I wasn’t checking the time, but it should be just within 10 to 15 minutes. Plenty of opportunities to take awesome pictures with expansively clear blue skies. From a distance, the lady awaits – she didn’t look that intimidating from afar.
After getting off the ferry, we had our breakfast at the canteen, after which, spent some time at the souvenir shop to determine what to purchase later after climbing the statue. Security checks here are very stringent and similar to airport customs, so do not be caught off guard. We weren’t sure if the tight security check is of a normal situation, but it could also be due to the recent terrorist threats that were manifesting all over the world that has made it necessary.
Once you get clearance, you’ll enter directly at the base of the statue. As we were late in booking for the crown tickets, we had to settle for the pedestal, which was good enough for me as the climb almost killed me. The elevator was taking too long and all able-bodied men were advised to use the stairs. I dutifully clasp at my nuts and trudge up Everest. The effort I would say, is totally worth it. The experience from the pedestal is one that I will take away with me and reside in a very special place in my heart for a very very long time. It feels like a totally different world up there, where the air is crisp and fresh, the winds are strong and the view is simply impeccable. Looking up at her, I felt smitten.
After making our way down from the pedestal, we walked around the Liberty State Park for an all round view of Lady Liberty. I must say she does look gorgeous standing proud with such great posture, holding her torch up high, luminescing in majestic turquoise. I felt so tiny standing before her beauty, grace and the embodiment of freedom. I also love humongous flags. We bade farewell to the lovely lady as all good things will certainly have to come to an end.
Till we meet again.
For more information on how to get there, ticket booking, ferry timings and operating hours, click on the link below.
www.statuecruises.com
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