Here’s what anyone who’s never been to New York thinks of the Big Apple. The tall skyscrapers, some friends hanging out at a coffee shop or Times Square. However, this city is more than that, it has a character that draws people from around the world. So if you want to live like a true NYC citizen then continue reading this post. Here are 5 things we believe will make you a true New Yorker (for a while at least).
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge
When it comes to capturing the essence of New York, it all begins with the path that leads from Brooklyn to Manhattan. One of them being the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. The ideal time to visit the bridge would be right before dawn, watching the sun rise over the East River. This gives you the chance to see the city in its most peaceful state before the daily hustle and bustle. You can also rent a cycle to enjoy the scenic route. If you don’t want to visit the landmark early in the morning, you can also visit it during the sunset which offers you beautiful panoramic views of Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.
Explore the boroughs
Of the 50 million people who visit New York each year, only a few of them go beyond the usual tourist attractions. Which leads to them missing out on the opportunity to enjoy the diversity and cultures of the city. New York has five boroughs which are Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. One of the best ways to have an authentic experience of the neighbourhoods is by choosing to rent furnished apartments in New York in any one of the five neighbourhoods. Staying in an apartment gives you a home away from home experience with all the amenities for comfortable living.
Each borough has its distinct character such as Manhattan is known for its impressive skyline, Central Park and Times Square. Brooklyn is known for its street art, and music community. The Bronx is a hub for baseball fans as the famous Yankee Stadium, New York Zoo and Pelham Bay Park. Queens is one of the biggest boroughs in New York, it is also the right place for foodies, live music and culture. On the southernmost side of the city is Staten Island offering vast beautiful natural spaces and a thriving cultural scene.
Catch a Broadway show
A visit to New York without an opportunity to see a Broadway show is incomplete. One of the world’s most popular theatre stages. Broadway attracts the world’s most talented actors, singers, musicians and dancers. There is an average run of 8 shows per week. You might be lucky to catch a performance by your favourite star or an amazing show like The Lion King. Since the theatre tends to be a bit colder than outside, it is advisable to carry clothes accordingly.
Eat a New York Pizza slice
The origin of New York Pizza is believed to be from the ‘Neapolitan-style pizza’. A slice from this 18-inch round base has made its way to becoming one of the most popular street foods in New York. With many joints, pizzerias and restaurants there’s often a debate amongst fellow New Yorkers about where you can get the best pizza slice. Apart from pizza, you can also try famous street foods such as bagels, falafels and hotdogs.
Visit the top of the Empire State Building
No visit to New York is complete without a visit to the Empire State Building, a testament to sheer willpower and human testament. 102 stories tall, this was the tallest building in the world until 1971. Get a ticket to the 102nd and 86th-floor observatory decks and ride in the glass elevator. Enjoy the 360-degree view of the city, overlooking the breathtaking skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you plan to visit at sunrise, sunset or in the evening there is always something new to discover.
These are the defining experiences of New York that everyone must have for the perfect NYC story. For the city that never sleeps, you can be sure that your stay here will be anything but ordinary. This is the city for which Frank Sinatra said “ If I can make it here, then I can make it anywhere”. If you are planning to visit or have visited New York, then feel free to share your experience with us.
