Georges Younes

Stephan Weiss Park is part of a complex of consecutive parks that follow the Hudson River. Collectively known as Hudson River Park, the larger entity includes several smaller parks that vary from converted piers to a walkway that follows the Hudson. This waterfront provides a relief for New York City residents and visitors, especially on hot summer days. The open space is slightly cooler because of the wind that blows on the river. Walking, jogging, stretching, playing games or simply chilling. Choose an activity or simply come, sit and relax.

I remember the way the Hudson river piers used to be a long time ago and the slow and steady progress that they went through. Even when they were rundown and had an ill repute, the piers were a draw to New Yorkers and visitors looking to escape the urban jungle that is Manhattan. Looking back, it seems that revelers thought that the piers were worth the risk, no matter how badly kept and dangerous they were. People still went, but at their own risk. After extensive restoration, the piers are now part of a series of small parks which are known collectively as the Hudson River park.

Centaur Theater resides in one of the many Beaux-Arts buildings that Montreal has chosen to preserve. Built in 1903, the building originally housed the Montreal Stock Exchange and was converted into a theater in the second half of the twentieth century. The conversion of the building will ensure its preservation for a long time to come.

Ajman Beach is a wide expanse of sand beach that is open to the public in some parts and blocked off as private beaches in others, usually run by hotels that are across the corniche. Water is usually calm, warm and inviting. When I visited, there was hardly anyone during the day, but it was off-season. The beach did get busier in late afternoons and early evenings, simply because that's when the sun and the heat became more bearable.

There are a couple of smaller marinas at the small Victoria Harbour not too far from Parliament House in the middle of town. The docks are a very lively part of the city with many entertainers vying for your attention. There are also many street vendors trying to sell you and the large throng of tourists items that nobody needs, items that will end up in your garage and eventually in a garage sale. Ignore them and focus your attention on the very cute smaller boats announcing Harbour Tours or Harbour Taxis. These are the main attractions of the aforementioned marinas.