Family Swim at Asphalt Green

This summer I finally gave up on the New York beaches. We went to a beach chosen best of all US beaches, still I felt like I was hit by a truck on the way back. The big waves, sticky sand are not for me!

I've been taking Tara for swim lessons since she was 6 months old to Asphalt Green at Upper East Side. Thank God they have an outdoor pool open during the summer. Although we are not members to the Club, drop-ins are allowed on Sundays for a fee during Family Rec Swim. It doesn't get crowded probably because not many people know about this pool. Down side is there is no kiddie pool but Tara learned to swim on her own with arm floats. I'm so proud of her!

Planethailand 212

We hopped on our favorite rocket ship and flew to this 5000-square-foot galaxy for dinner. The first thing that took our attention (other than the dizzying 5000-square-foot space) was the video installation on the wall. Then we settled in our comfy leather booth in a room with red ceilings and walls and giant paintings on the floor. Through Bora's crying and Tara's running wildly around, it took us almost half an hour to concentrate on the menu which had 160 options in all. Luckily we were happy with all of our order and everything was delicious. The service really didn't add to our experience but if you are a family like us who don't want to be bothered by eye rolling waiters when your kid is either spitting on the table or climbing on top of the seats- it could be just what you need. Although when the check did not arrive for some time, we were wondering which planet it was coming from.
If you would like to travel to this planet it's at 30 W 24th St.