This is the blog of Mark Wordsworm, the travelling worm. I’m a 25-year-old bookmark and can proudly boast my own Hallmark serial number, 95 HBM 80-1. You’ll probably want to read all about me and my Travelling Companion (the TC).
Today’s travel notes
Me and the TC are staying in Harlem, New York. It’s a grand old neighbourhood that has had its ups and downs. The people are friendly, the streets are wide, the transport is good. If you are looking for somewhere to stay in New York that is a reasonable price, this worm recommends Harlem.
My impressions? People are busy but make an art of taking things easy in Harlem.
The book I’m in
The Serbian Dane, by Leif Davidsen. Things are coming to a climax now.
Travel tip
The subway is good, but try the buses too. They are a bit slower, it’s true, but they are air conditioned and less crowded. The biggest advantage is that you can see the sights as you travel. Route M2 takes you all the way from Harlem to Greenwich Village in about 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Recommended accommodation
Easy Living Harlem, 214 West 137th Street, NY NY 10030. It’s a grand old house run by a hospitable couple. You’ll get a lovely room with bathroom en suite, as well as the shared use of a kitchen, living room and garden. Photos below.
Recommended restaurant
Spend a couple of hours at the Shrine in Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard, soak up the jazz, then move next door for a meal at Yatenga.
The photos
Me at a Harlem subway station, West 135th Street:
We stayed at Easy Living Harlem, in 137th Street:
A closer look at the house where we stayed – it’s the dark red one in the centre:
The view from our window. The neighbours are getting ready for a Memorial Day barbecue:
A general view of Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard in Harlem. It’s generously wide – this is just the right-hand side of the street:
Flowers, a fire hydrant, and the NYPD:
When in Harlem, jazz is a must. Our landlady recommended the Shrine. She was right, it’s the place to chill out and soak up some vibes. This picture shows Yatenga French Bistro (yellow) and the Shrine (white awning) on Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard:
Jamming at the Shrine with Lu Reid and guests:
The band in action:
That’s all for today, dudes.
Travelling Worm 
Talk to the Travelling Worm!