The Big Apple: A Celebration of Organized Chaos
Ah, New York City. The city that never sleeps (because it's too busy fitting everything under the sun into one place). Where else can you hail a cab in your pajamas, argue philosophy with a hot dog vendor, and catch a glimpse of celebrities arguing with pigeons over a half-eaten bagel (hey, everything's a competition here)?
Melting Pot on High Heat
Diversity: This city is like a giant international food court, except instead of greasy fries and questionable orange chicken, you get people from literally everywhere. Over 800 languages are spoken here, which is more than the number of reasons your apartment keeps losing heat in the winter.
Sub-heading: A walk down any street is like a constant game of "Where in the World?" Just try to keep track of the different cuisines your nose is gonna drag you towards.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
Bright Lights, Big Dreams (and Even Bigger Personalities)
Energy: New York is like a caffeine IV drip for the soul. There's a palpable energy here that just pulsates through the streets. People walk with purpose (even if that purpose is just finding decent Wi-Fi). Taxis honk, dreams are screamed into the night sky from fire escape balconies, and the corner bodega cat judges everyone with equal disdain.
Sub-heading: This city doesn't stop. Ever. If you need a nap, you might want to consider visiting a museum (they're pretty good here, by the way).
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
Concrete Jungle Where Dreams Are Made Of... or Broken
 |
Opportunities (and Obstacles): New York is the land of limitless possibilities. Want to be an actor? Stand in line behind a million other aspiring Romeos and Juliets. Want to be a fashion designer? Well, good luck getting noticed over the guy selling knock-off Gucci handbags out of a suitcase. The point is, if you can dream it, you can probably try it here (though success is a whole other story).
Sub-heading: This city will chew you up and spit you out if you're not careful. But hey, at least you'll have a good story to tell (and maybe a slightly neurosis or two).
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
 |
| What Makes New York City Unique |
So You Wanna Experience the Chaos? How To NYC: A Crash Course
How to Hail a Cab: Stick your arm out like you're about to fall over backwards, and maintain intense eye contact. The faker the need, the more likely you are to snag a ride.
How to Dress: There is no dress code. PJs? Fancy gown? Mime costume? As long as you can squeeze onto the subway without causing a scene, you're good to go.
How to Deal with Street Performers: A smile and a polite "no thanks" usually does the trick. Unless they're really good, then maybe spare a buck or two (just watch out for the pigeon in a tiny top hat, that hustle is real).
QuickTip: Absorb ideas one at a time.
How to Get Around: Walking is the best way to experience the city (and save money on the overpriced cab fare). The subway system is extensive, but let's just say it builds character.
How to Prepare for Anything: Pack an umbrella, a raincoat, sunglasses, and a sense of humor. This city throws everything at you, so be ready to roll with the punches (or dodge the flying hot dog vendor trash).
 |
