day seven, August 13, New York

The big American looked at me, baffled.

"New Zealand - that's about four hours behind us, right?
"No, actually we are 16 hours ahead of New York."

He looked at me again, like I was an idiot.

"You mean 16 hours BEHIND New York."

"No, we are ahead of US time - it's already tomorrow there."

And the punchline - "It's already tomorrow? But America is first!"

Wherever I go, people comment on my strange accent. When i say I am from New Zealand, about half the people say "oh that's in Europe, isn't it?" I suppose I shouldn't have expected anything different but it is all slightly dispiriting to learn just how insignificant our country is.

I don't feel at home at New York, not sure why. Perhaps its just the hotel which is not as friendly as the one in Boston. Perhaps being robbed has me wary - I think that's part of it. Or perhaps I'm just tired. I've being waking up at 3am every day - even though that is 7pm in New Zealand so it really makes no sense at all. Today I did manage to get to sleep again after waking early, but it has been ruling out ideas of going out at night - just too sleepy. I am trying to decide whether to try the comedy club round the corner tonight... Have had an early dinner in the hope of rejuvenating myself as i am determined not to waste time here.

Today I was very much the tourist. I did bus tours of the city. In part because the feet are still very sore - not sure what the issue is there. A bus tour is very touristy - but of course you do manage to see a lot of things that way and learn about them and it was one of those ones where you hop on and off. So I saw a fair bit and I know the things i want to return to.

Had a preliminary wander round Central Park but hadn't realised it is quite as big as it is, so will return tomorrow.

If it is nice I might just find a spot there to sit in the sun for a bit - so far it hasn't been especially sunny. Perhaps the weather will change.

Had a lovely meal tonight - the best I have had while i have been away. New York seems to be a city of restaurants - I am sure 50 percent of the businesses here must be eating places. I am going to try a few diffferent things I think...

Am really looking forward to the rest of my time here - just hope the feet hold up as I'd much rather walk than be driven everywhere.

Oh and Brett will be interested if he reads this - have yet to have a really good beer. Wuish I could have a cool Speights.