I can't imagine life in Manhattan without the Central Park. There is something about nature - however articifially created - that uplifts human spirits. A walk in the wooded paths after work restores all the calmness and equilibrium within myself. To hear the leaves ruffle and birds chirping around me, to smell the freshly cut lawn, to watch the squirrels hiding their little treasures, and to watch the dogs roll on grass is priceless.

In summer I run around the Jackie O. Reservoir. The Park is so busy in summer that one can safely run in the circular path until at least 8:30 or 9 pm. When it's stifling hot and humid, the reservoir path is especially rewarding to run with the cooling breezes coming towards runners. It is also incredibly romantic around sunset, with the Manhattan skyscrapers against the golden rays reflected on the water. Runners also get to interact with the "wild life" - I once saw an entire family of recoons clustered on the branches just above the path. If you decided to run at night, be sure to look for the family of ducks who retire into the reservoir bank!