Traveling from Los Angeles to New York I didn't have much expectations, and most of the expectations that I did have were disproven upon arrival. For instance, I fell absolutely in love with the city, more so than I did before, truely converting me to an New Yorker. Here are some reasons why I truely believe New York is one of the most intriguing places in the world. If you need an excuse or reason to book a ticket to New York this summer, here is is:
1. The energy: It’s the city that never sleeps. New York truly is a concrete jungle and with people constantly out and about and lights of the city constantly on, it’s impossible to feel truly alone or helpless. Even strolling down a couple blocks after a meal can be satisfying enough and feel completely normal surrounded by so many people. For some, crowds could truly be a buzzkill, but for others (like me) it's a rush.
(Photo of Butcher's Daughter NYC via New YorkInspiration)
2. The restaurants: On every corner it seems there is another diamond in the rough. Even walking by a street numerous times it’s easy to see places that you didn’t catch before. Eating is New York is unlike any other place, too. You'll find everything you could ever want here, whether it’s high-end restaurants, cafes or the ubiquitous markets set up in the streets. Even the pizza, a staple and one of the most basic foods in America is so, so much better in New York. Let's just say, NYC is a foodie's paradise.
3. The views are out of this world: Whether you’re standing on top of the Empire State Building or sipping Manhattans at a rooftop bar, you'll feel like you're on top of the world surrounded by the energy and city lights. Having everything so accessible and close together allows for convenience and the feeling of self-empowerment. You can go and do whatever your heart desires here.
4. Bottomless brunch: Brunch in New York is only done boozy and bottomless surrounded by flowing mimosas, steaming waffles and great friends. What’s better to revive yourself after a long night of partying than all you can drink mimosas or margaritas?
(Photo of Los Angeles traffic via RTKL)
5. No traffic: Traffic here is just different than in Los Angeles. No longer do you have to go through the hassle of sitting in a car for over an hour on the 101, bumper-to-bumper. It's pure freedom walking out of your apartment to a subway system that can take to you anywhere in the city.
6. It's impossible to feel bored: Not only do you have an endless amount of parks, cafes and boutiques to frequent, but New York is home to some of the most awe-inspiring museums in the world. There's The Guggenheim, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA (which always has some new, trendy exhibition opening) and many more. So go on, get your art on.
(Photo of Strawberry Fields,Central Park via jamesfalciano/Instagram)
7. Central Park: It's truly one of the greatest and most famous parks in the world, for good reason. It's filled with everything! Whether it’s admiring the sculptures, watching sailboat races or taking a horse-and-buggy ride, Central Park really emulates magic and tranquility away from the bustling, crowded city.
8. The neighborhoods: Are you an Park Avenue princess? A sleek fashion guru? Or a espresso sipping musician? From the posh Upper East Side to trendy SoHo, there's a neighborhood for every type in NYC.
9. People Watching: You will run into some characters in NYC, there's no doubt about that. It's not uncommon to see a businessman standing next to a woman dancing in thong, and it's what makes the city so lively and interesting. And if you have a eye for fashion, this is THE city to be in.
(Photo via Fodors.com)
