The City Seen

New York City is the hub of culture and creativity. The constant change and variety in what there is to see and do far surpasses that of any other metropolis aspiring for New York's grand stature. The best way to take advantage of it all is to be informed regarding the locations of interesting venues and events that grace our neck of the woods. Therefore, I have compiled a meager list of things to check out during the precarious free time you will bask in during your stay here at lovely Yeshiva University.

Do you like motorcycles? I do! Well, the Guggenheim (1071 5th Ave) has decided that motorcycles should be seen as art and therefore have put on a show dedicated solely to motorcycles. Instead of trying to understand the hidden meaning behind a snooty piece of modern art you can wear leather and check out some chrome. The show runs till September 20.

Everest at the Imax (1998 Broadway) is the answer for those in search of a real adventure from the comfort of their very own cushy movie theater seat. The movie captures the life and death of a group of explorers trying to make it atop the tallest and most treacherous mountain in the world. The shocking footage in this film, its huge screen, and the base blasting sound system makes for a hell of a ride.

For the best jazz around town head into Augie's (2751 Broadway) or Smalls (183 W 10th). The mellow ambiance combined with the funky bands that frequent these establishments make for a great night out. Much cheaper then places such as the famous Blue Note, these little clubs offer a combination of talented jazz performers and a carefree atmosphere.

Polanco (502 Amsterdam) is a new glatt kosher Mexican restaurant. Though a bit on the pricy side, Mexican food lovers who observe Halacha will not be disappointed. An appetizer of guacamole with nachos, a Burrito Santa Fe, a coke, and ole, its like your in Cabo San Lucas again.

For a short glimpse into the large spectrum of interests, places, and cultures that exist in this world there is only one place to go. The magazine/cafe section of Barnes and Nobles (1960 Broadway) has a gigantic array of the worlds publications ranging from gun magazines, music gossip, hiking gear, fashion and even news. Just take a handful, grab a table and a cup of coffee, and your set for a reading rainbow.

There are times at YU when one misses the very basic foundation this nation stands upon: TV. If you are tired of watching ESPN2 with everybody else in the smelly lounge, head down to The Museum of Television and Radio (25 W52nd). First, you can get your own screen, and then you can take out twenty episodes of The Twighlight Zone at no extra charge. Just pay the entrance fee and veg.

The Bronx; it just doesn't sound good. But once you reach the Bronx Botanical Gardens you will find that the Bronx's bad reputation is not so well deserved. Two hundred and fifty acres of exotic trees and plants, lots of benches, lots of trails, and lots of peace. For those of you pre-med people who like to stress over A minuses or those of you who just like to breath in naturally perfumed air, this is the place for you.

Still the Bronx; it just doesn't sound good. To quote Simon and Garfunkle (Jews!) "Someone told me it's all happening at the zoo." Those brothers said it right, The Bronx Zoo makes the cafeteria look almost human, and with tons of crazy creatures it makes YU look almost tame. Take advantage of the zoo, it's a great Sunday excursion.

Last but not least, the Cloisters (Fort Tryon) is right around the corner. With its view of the river, its large grass fields, and the magnificent art and architecture, the Cloisters is the saving grace of our scenic, peace loving neighborhood. If you are contemplating homicide, come here first, take a few deep breaths and relax. Life is good.