cmj0312

Well this past weekend I visited Coney Island for the first time since Astroland closed. The neighborhood is still the same. For those visiting Coney Island it’s best to go when Coney Island is actual open…many can be intimidated by the housing projects surrounding Coney Island. No one will really bother you. People usually act like they are civilized and if they don’t NYPD are always at the Coney Island/Stillwell Ave subway station. Everyone goes to Coney Island...it’s the local amusement park for summertime fun. It can get crowded especially during the weekend and especially as schools let out across the city. The boardwalk is still filled with great food…grilled corn, fried clams and seafood and don’t forget Nathan famous dogs.

I miss Astroland though...for those of you who don’t know Coney Island was composed of more than one amusement park. Astroland provided its own special feeling to Coney Island that I really miss. I miss the Breakdancer ride…but for those traveling to take a ride on the infamous Cyclone rollercoaster don’t worry it’s still there. NYC had sense enough to purchase the Cyclone so you can still ride.

While you’re in Coney Island you also go right across the street to the Aquarium if you want to get out of the sun for a while. And like most places you’d probably be better taking the train than driving although parking is available at Coney Island. LOTS of trains make a final stop here-D, N, F and Q trains.

So if you’re in Brooklyn one hot summer day looking for something to do take the train to Coney Island.

Bedford Park is in the northern part of the Bronx in NYC. For those who are not familiar with the Bronx I personally consider it to be one of the better areas of the Bronx. It's no Manhattan so don't expect the glitz. If you are use to pristine streets, classy high rises and a suburban appearance this area may not be for you. The rents in this area as for much of the Bronx are lower than most areas in NYC.

There are not a lot of eateries mainly just small local businesses. Usually if I wanted to go shopping I would take the B, D or 4 trains to Fordham Road where there are LOTS of places to shop and eat.
I actually attended Lehman College which is located in this neighborhood and transportation is okay especially during rush hour—the 4, D and B service the area. I have attended classes in the evening…there are usually people out so I have never felt afraid…but I am a Native New Yorker ….so my advice would be to be alert to your surroundings at all times.

There are parks nearby, Jerome Park is one of them and local buses will take you to both the NY Botanical Garden and the Bronx Zoo if you are looking for something to do or want to experience some nature.

I lived in the Washington Heights area of New York City specifically on Broadway and 164th for a little over two years and I would have to say it was one of the more affordable areas by far! It is a very convenient area for those working at Columbia/Presbyterian hospital and for Columbia University students. The subway lines A (express) and C (local) service the area so there is no problem getting downtown. As far as safety is concerned, I always felt safe...because there was ALWAYS someone outside...now this can be a good or bad thing depending on your preference but personally I liked the idea of coming home from a late night out at around 2AM or 3AM and knowing for sure that there are people around. Also because of Columbia’s presence police do patrol the area more so than other areas I’ve lived in throughout NYC. In addition, there are local fast food places like Wendy's and McDonalds that stay open late. Oh and Dallas BBQ is right across the street from Columbia/Presbyterian.

Culturally the area is diverse but there is a heavy Dominican presence in Washington Heights. There are a LOT of Dominican eateries and salons. Most people particularly the younger people speak both English and Spanish so communicating shouldn’t be an issue.

The area is affordable...but lively!!!! If you are willing to deal with the regular bustle of NYC PLUS the mix of music, lively parties, and people singing at the top of their lungs…then you’ll be okay here. The noise is not so troubling that you can’t get a good night’s sleep. Fair warning though…. Friday and Saturday nights are LIVELY!!!!! The traffic is somewhat heavier especially on the smaller streets with people visiting friends and family. Summertime means more people and kids hanging outside their buildings.

Washington Heights is an affordable neighborhood that can accommodate many different types of people!!!! :)