Eurotrip 2024: A Layover in the City That Never Sleeps

Before we truly crossed the Atlantic, our Eurotrip had its first pulse in the heart of Manhattan. Thanks to Hawaiian Airlines, our journey started smooth and familiar—tropical warmth and friendly vibes, even at 30,000 feet. Touching down in NYC, we were armed with 10 hours and a city brimming with energy.

Naturally, Katz’s Deli was our first pilgrimage. That pastrami sandwich? Ridiculously stacked. Juicy, smoky, peppery perfection. It practically needed its own seat. The pickle plate on the side was a crunchy bonus, but honestly, that sandwich stole the show.

From there, we rode the subway to the 9/11 Memorial. Visiting on September 11th made everything feel especially solemn. The air was heavy—not just with humidity, but with memory. We stood in quiet reflection at the twin fountains, surrounded by names, stories, and respectful silence.

To lighten the mood (and indulge my sweet tooth), I made the crew detour to get a LeVain chocolate chip cookie. Just one. Shared bites. Rich, gooey, and the kind of cookie that justifies any reroute. Totally worth the mission.

Of course, no NYC jaunt is complete without a stop at Washington Square Park. We got the classic fountain shot—with some of us cheesin’ harder than others—and people-watched as NYU students and tourists drifted through the arch.

When the camera gets turned on the cameraman.

We even squeezed in a short, breezy walk through Central Park. It wasn’t much, but it felt good to slow the pace before the next long haul. We let the trees shade us and the pigeons ignore us. Classic Central Park energy.

And just like that, the city was in our rearview. We climbed the stairs at the airport terminal one last time, waved goodbye to NYC, and boarded our flight to London Gatwick—ready for castles, cobblestones, and cups of tea.

Next stop: the UK.