greenwich village ,

Drop in for a visit to the capital of bohemian culture, well known for its artsy residents, cool shops and quaint cafes. Also home to the famous Washington Square Park, Manhattan's Greenwich Village is the perfect place to break away from the bustling city that surrounds and bask in the calm and cool energy of new ideas, and political, artistic and cultural diversity. Known more simply as "the Village," the large majority of this trendy New York neighborhood is home to upper middle class families despite its fame as the birthplace of the Beat Movement and avant-garde and alternative culture. Greenwich Village became hip way back when, through the small presses, art galleries, and experimental theater that thrived here, though its become a bit more commercialized in recent years. You'll find plenty of students here, too due to the presence of New York University (NYU), The New School. Perhaps the best thing to do here besides stroll around and enjoy a latte or herbal tea in one of the many cafes and people watch is spend the afternoon shopping in the mix of unique independently-owned shops as well as staples like the Gap and Virgin Records. Plus, don't forget to leave some time to relax in the sun under the shorter buildings which let the rays shine in or simply escape to one of the many secret courtyards and small gardens nestled between townhouses in the residential blocks of the groovy Greenwich Village.