Being fortunate enough to live minutes away from one of the world's greatest cities does not always mean being joyful to drag oneself into the concrete jungle. Here are some personal and general thoughts about how "preparing" for a trip into New York City goes down...
1. What do I wear?
A struggle for most young women is to choose an outfit for the day, but the struggle of a young woman trying to be "city-chic" is a completely different story. Choosing from a dress, skirt, or shorts are options that all fit the "summer look" of NYC, but is what you have in your closet good enough for the SoHo natives?
2. Comfortable shoes or fashionable footwear?
Now, I know you fashion-forward ladies have struggled with this. Every Jersey and city girl wants to put her best foot – or should I say shoe – forward. If you do have classy, fashionable shoes that make you feel like you are walking on clouds, then you are in luck! But if you own a pair of designer-blistering shoes, then I am truly sorry, because I know your pain!
3. What do I pack?
Two words: light and reasonable. Packing light is always the "goal" when placing things in your purse, but the second you pick it up, it feels like a suitcase! I know mine has! That is why I keep the word "reasonable" in mind. If your phone dies, bring a portable charger. Going out to lunch/dinner? Bring some breath mints for after dinner. Got a bulky wallet? Narrow it down to two credit/debit cards and cash.
4. Where do I go, but more importantly...How do I get there?
Subways, taxis, and now Uber will be your best friend. Yes, the subway lines are complicated and the difference between "Uptown" and "Downtown" are slightly confusing depending where you are, but fear not, there is always the option to Uber or grab a taxi. I know walking to and through the subway can be hectic, heated, and frustrating, so I always make sure that I have extra cash to splurge and Uber to my nearest destination.
5. So what's something fun to try now?
Once you've done something big, like eat at the Sugar Factory, strolled through Central Park, gone up the Empire State and One World Observatories, visited countless museums, and ate at all the tourist destinations, you feel like you've done it all, but want more. Fear not! There is always something to do in the city! Make sure you check what local events are going on!
