Hello.

I am relocating back to NYC. I used to live for a short while on the UES. After looking at various apartment listing sites, I'm debating between either the UWS or Financial District. I like the arts scene, Fairway market, park, museums, and overall feel on the UWS. However, I also noted that there are many new luxury apartments coming up in the Financial District. I'm not too familiar with Financial District area though. There seem to be some reasonable deals though in these apartments.

I was wondering if anybody can tell me what it is like to live in the Financial District area. I know this is a vague question. I'm considering it as it may even be slightly closer to my work. How is it in terms of groceries (any nice grocers here?) How about restaurants? Is it a nice place for somebody in their early 30's? Is it safe after dark for a single female? Just trying to get a 'feel' for the area. Also, is it nearby to a bike path? Is there a bike/walking trail along the water here? I prefer a place that is a bit more homey and not just tall skyscrapers everywhere with some greenery but it's hard to find this in NYC. And I do like the luxuries of the apartment buildings.

Please do advise.

Cheers,

gtrekker

topping

I have heard, from various people living in Manhattan, that it is much too quiet in the Financial District.
One person I know, owns a business that caters mostly to the business centers in that area, he says it is lacking much in the way of restaurants and shops that are open, after the offices close.

From the questions you have asked and the info you have given, this is an absolute no-brainer. You want the Upper West Side. It has everything you are looking for, and if you are close to the 72nd St subway, the express will take you downtown in 10 minutes.

I must admit to being prejudiced - but I love the UWS. Very diverse in terms of people, style, architecture etc - and lively at all times. No longer as trendy as some areas of downtown - but I think the financial district in particular is still quite quiet at non-business hours.

Definitely the UWS. I have worked in the Financial District for most of the last 12 years. While it has certainly improved in terms of living and services, there is still not a lot there after 5 pm on weekdays or at all on weekends. There are very few supermarkets. There are almost *no* restaurants open on the weekends (maybe Vine and Delmonico's). There are no dry cleaners open on the weekends. You get my drift. While there may be deals to be had on apartments, you can count on heading uptown to see friends/go out.