Staten Island: The Borough That Time Forgot (Kinda)
New York City, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of, is also a place where boroughs are born and, in one particular case, barely survive. We're talking about Staten Island, the forgotten stepchild of the Big Apple.
The Anti-Manhattan
While Manhattan is all hustle and bustle, towering skyscrapers, and people crammed into tiny apartments, Staten Island is like that chill cousin who lives in the suburbs. It’s got green spaces, houses with yards (gasp!), and a pace of life that's more akin to a small town than a major city.
You might be wondering, "Why is this place so empty?" Well, let's just say that if Staten Island were a person, they'd probably be that introvert who's perfectly content with their own company and doesn't really care for the noise of the party.
The Staten Island Ferry: The Free Therapy Session You Didn't Know You Needed
One thing Staten Island has going for it is the ferry ride. It's free, offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, and is basically a mini-vacation from the stress of city life. If you're feeling overwhelmed, hop on the ferry and pretend you're on a cruise. Just don't try to order a piña colada.
So, Why is Staten Island So Empty?
- Lack of Subway: No, seriously. This is a big one. New Yorkers are a subway-dependent people. Staten Island? Not so much.
- The Commute: Even with the ferry, getting to the other boroughs can be a bit of a trek. Not everyone is up for that kind of commitment.
- It’s Just Different: Staten Island has a more suburban vibe. If you prefer peace and quiet, it's your place. But if you thrive on constant action, you might find it a bit...boring.
But Don't Count Staten Island Out
Despite its reputation as the least populated borough, Staten Island has its charm. It's a place where you can actually own a car, have a backyard barbecue, and see the stars at night. Plus, it's getting more and more connected to the rest of the city, so who knows, maybe one day it will be the next big thing.
How To... Staten Island Edition
- How to get to Staten Island: Take the free Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan. It's a scenic ride!
- How to survive Staten Island: Embrace the quiet, enjoy the green spaces, and be prepared for a longer commute.
- How to find peace and quiet in NYC: Move to Staten Island. Just kidding (kind of).
- How to appreciate the little things: Spend a day in Staten Island and you'll realize how much you take the city's hustle and bustle for granted.
- How to experience small-town life in the big city: Again, Staten Island is your answer.