being the tourist that I am

I have to admit, I was not really looking forward to heading to the historical Ellis Island and to where the Statue of Liberty herself was. I was happy with the glimpse I had of the statue from the free Staten Island Ferry on that first NY trip years ago. But, Tonio had friends over and I didnt really have anything to do...so might as well.

It turned out okay. We went to Ellis Island were the original immigrants landed in search of something better. I looked around at statistics of immigrants in the US, how they've grown over the years and they will continue to grow I guess.

And then we went to the Statue of Liberty herself. I wasnt looking forward to actually going up the monument, so I guess the fact that the actual interior was fully booked was not a disappointment for me. I tried to look around for a souvenir magnet or shot glass but didnt find anything I wanted. What I did find was this edited photo were they basically put your face on bodies of immigrants who made it to the US all those years ago. See if you can find me and my twin in the photo!

I must add, I dont think the dress is particularly flattering on me. The "other" outfit kinda suits me better hehee.

I have immigrant ancestors! (not!), originally uploaded by socs.

On our way home, we were treated to US Coast Guards as escorts...well, no not really. They were cruising just right beside our ferry. I guess I can also think they're possibly staking out a terrorist among the crowd...but I'd rather think that we were being given the VIP treatment :P

US Coast Guard, originally uploaded by socs.

More photos from this day's trip uploaded in both PBASE and FLICKR.