Day 3: Lady Liberty, City Lights & Sister Stories

Day 3 began on a calm note with a relaxing breakfast before we headed to  Battery Park for our long-awaited trip to the Statue of Liberty. The ferry took us across the bay to Bedloe’s Island where the majestic Lady Liberty stood tall and proud against the skyline. Despite the chilly weather and gusty winds, we couldn’t resist taking a few pictures with the iconic statue — a moment that truly felt surreal.

We then explored the Statue of Liberty Museum, which beautifully narrates the story behind the monument — how it was conceptualized, designed, and built. The exhibits transported us back to the streets of France, where the statue was first crafted, and to the excitement that surrounded its grand arrival in New York. Coincidentally, our visit happened to fall on the very date the statue was originally installed — adding a special touch to the experience. It truly felt like stepping back into a remarkable chapter of world history.

Our next stop was the New York Stock Exchange, followed by the famous Charging Bull, a symbol of financial optimism and prosperity. After a quick bite of authentic New York-style pizza, we made our way to the city’s green heart — Central Park. Its vast open spaces, vibrant fall colors, and tranquil atmosphere provided a refreshing break from the city’s constant buzz.

From there, we headed to Times Square, the lively core of Midtown Manhattan. The flashing billboards, bright lights, and energetic crowds created an atmosphere that was pure New York — vibrant, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating.

But what truly made the day special wasn’t just the landmarks — it was the conversations. We found ourselves reminiscing about our childhood, and my sister shared stories from her first stay in New York — how she adjusted to a new country, new work, and new surroundings. Listening to her, I realized there were so many parts of her journey I’d never known before. It was a heartwarming reminder of how travel can bring people closer in unexpected ways.

We wrapped up the day by visiting a cousin’s home, where we enjoyed a delicious homemade dinner — the perfect way to end our final night in the city that never sleeps.

As we packed up that night, I couldn’t help but reflect — this wasn’t just a trip. It was a collection of moments, laughter, memories, and stories that I’ll cherish for a lifetime. After all, life is about creating those unforgettable moments that stay with you forever.