After the intensity of exploring Cuba, we decided to take a “culture break” and chartered a yacht for a relaxing wedding anniversary week in Miami.

Miami by night

Miami by day

 Then we joined the ship for the sail into New York City.  It was beautiful, but so cold and windy it was hard to even take pictures!

While in the city, we finally toured the 9/11 memorial and museum followed by a ride up to the observation deck of the the new 1,776 foot Freedom Tower (One World Trade).    We spend 3 hours in the museum and could have stayed a lot longer.  The Freedom Tower tour has a couple of clever surprises that make it worthwhile – I won’t spoil it for you.  Both are highly recommended, especially if you buy “pre-open” tickets for the museum to avoid the crowds and a premium ticket to the tower to avoid the elevator line – both should be purchased on their websites.

Next we went home to Connecticut to celebrate the season with the family.  We also had some beautiful solstice sunsets beyond the Manhattan skyline.  In December, the sun almost sets far enough south to silhouette the city and the cold crisp air eliminates any haze.

We unpacked, shopped, wrapped, decorated and cooked for 8 days in preparation for a big (26) visit by almost the whole family.  It was so great that they all could make it despite their busy schedules.  It was a highlight of our year for sure.