As my Adidas superstars hit the ground of North Carolina, I knew I wasn't in New York City anymore. Living in the city, you easily become accustomed to the lifestyle it requires; however, once you reach the other side of the Lincoln Tunnel, everything feels irrelevant. I've missed the city like I've never missed her before, but mostly, I've missed my seemingly daily routine. Here are 10 things that I pine for while on winter break.
1. Catching a dollar slice of pizza in the middle of the night.
The city has found the perfect solution for the midnight munchies and the college budget: Dollar Slice! On most weeknights you can catch me at 2 Bros, hitting up the parmesan toppings.
2. Watching a live runway show of different street styles.
You should never be surprised by the combination of 9-to-5 suits, cartoon characters and fashion-forward figures that pass you on the streets. Everything is a "go" in the city, and I love to watch.
3. Looking up from your binge-session of Netflix to see the skyline.
Being blessed with the Empire State Building as my everyday view, I have grown accustommed to looking out my window to find the one true thing I can depend on—the city skyline.
4. Turning the corner and discovering the next Picasso in graffiti art.
Since moving to the city, I have began to appreciate the graffiti and wall art on every corner. Homer Simpson in Little Italy, is one of my personal favorites.
5. The free entertainment that comes along with your subway ride.
There is never a subway ride that I am not entertained. Whether it be talented musicians, begging charities or cart dancers, your metro fare almost always comes with a free show.
6. The ability to have a shopping spree in between classes.
Math in the morning, Bloomingdale's in the afternoon. Going to a fashion school, you can always find a friend to bring along for some retail therapy.
7. Once in a lifetime, free concert events.
From sleeping overnight for Justin Bieber to waiting 48 hours to meet Lana Del Rey, there are always free opportunities to see your favorite celebs. Most recently, I watched my idol Michael Bublé perform at the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting.
8. The daily puppy store visits for a pooch-fix.
Missing my pugs while at college, I get a daily dose of fur from the closest puppy store. From French bulldogs, to shih tzus, to Boston terriers, these puppies are a great break from college cramming.
9. Getting artistic inspiration through weekly museum dates.
Having access to the Museum of Modern Art, the Met, and more makes for weekly museum visits. Recently the pop-up Museum of Feelings came to the city and was a great way to spend some free time.
10. The Instagram photo-ops.
Most of all, I miss the gorgeous city that provides me with Instagram "feed goals." With photo opportunities on every corner, there isn't an excuse to have a lackluster Instagram.
