MANHATTAN Vibes

Part 1: Financial District    • Sightseeing  
Part 2: Meetup    • Old Friends Reunite in Manhattan  
We’re traveling with a larger group this time, so instead of taking Amtrak from Boston, we decided driving was the more budget-friendly move. As we rolled into Manhattan, we noticed something new — a sign for the Congestion Relief Zone. This initiative kicked in on January 5, 2025, aiming to ease the infamous city traffic. he zone covers all local streets and avenues south of — and including — 60th Street in Manhattan. The FDR Drive, West Side Highway/Route 9A, and the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel ramps to West Street are excluded. If you’re driving a passenger vehicle or a small commercial car like a sedan, SUV, or pickup truck and using a valid E-ZPass, you’ll pay $9 during peak hours, and just $2.25 during overnight periods.
Not surprisingly, this new policy stirred up mixed feelings. Some drivers think it’s unfair to those who rely on their vehicles for work, while others appreciate the lighter traffic. Financial District spans nearly 290 acres, packed with towering office buildings and is home to the headquarters of major financial institutions. This neighborhood's roots go way back to 1624, when it was founded as New Amsterdam by Dutch settlers. I love how the old-world charm of gothic architecture contrasts with the towering skyscrapers — it’s like walking through layers of history.
We’re in Lower Manhattan now, where the Financial District lies below 14th Street. And just so you know, as of May 2025, the median rent in this area is around $4,400 per month. Yep, living here comes at a price!
For the weekend, we’re staying at the Courtyard by Marriott — one of my go-to hotel chains.
The location is spot-on, with tons of cafes, bars, and attractions all within walking distance. That said, this room might just be the tiniest one I’ve ever stayed in — and the view? Not much to write home about.
But overall, it’s clean, cozy, and has everything we needed. I’d absolutely consider staying here again.
Bonus: we snagged a discounted valet parking deal at the garage right next door — super convenient. #manhattan #financialdistrict #newyork #oculus #Manhattan
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