More than just a concrete jungle

New York City may have earned its reputation as a concrete jungle but if you look harder, there's always a few pleasant surprises here and there. Two of the most picturesque places I've been around the NY area are Wave Hill over-looking the Hudson River & Snug Harbor at Staten Island.

Wave Hill is a public and cultural garden with many stunning vistas, a large green house, an Alpine House and different types of gardens. An excellent place for a family picnic. No pets allowed, unfortunately.



Snug Harbor in Staten Island, NY is more than 170 years old. When it opened in 1833, it was the first retirement home for former seamen in the United States. Inside this historic 83 acre landmark, lies the New York Chinese Scholar Garden. There's a quote by an ancient Chinese gardener, Ji Ching which reads:

"The garden is created by the human hand,
but should appear as if created by heaven."

Can't come for a visit? Just click here for a virtual tour of the Garden. Of course, nothing beats the experience of being there in person. It is truly like Ji Ching's description - heaven on earth. Absorbing the garden's good chi must be good isn't it? We all can do with a bit of quiet beauty and serenity every now and then.