My New York Experience

I love cities. I knew I'd enjoy my time in New York. I had no idea I'd want to own an "I HEART NY" shirt on my way out. I didn't buy one, but I could honestly wear one. There are no words to explain how much I love the city. The experience is so surreal. I'm glad I was able to stay in my friends' apartment to fully experience life in the city. I also spent the day with a friend who lives in Brooklyn, so I also saw a brownstone apartment.

Of all the things I saw and did, the one memory that stands out to me is the kindness of the people in New York. I really had no idea. I guess I assumed New Yorkers were snobby and rude. I did not find this to be true at all. There were multiple times on my 5 day trip where people were extremely friendly, thoughtful, and kind.

1. The transit staff are very friendly as they help dazed and confused tourists figure out which subway line they need to be on.
2. Several people offered up their seats on the subway for my friend, who was carrying her 6 week old baby.
3. More than one person offered to carry/did carry her stroller up and down the subway stairs.
4. I was constantly turned around in the city. I could ask anyone (as long as they spoke English) for help, and they would kindly give directions. Not once did someone seem put out by my interruption of their schedule. In fact, one time, this man told me I had quite a trek to get where I needed to be; and then he offered to walk me! Really?!
5. While trying to get into the apartment building on my own, I was struggling to get the door unlocked. Another tenant graciously helped me, and then he was thoughtful enough to tell me there was something filming around the corner if I was interested. He gave me directions, and I headed out that way.
6. I wandered over to a group of firemen, and they gladly posed to take a picture with me. I didn't even have to ask. I was just going to stand near them, and they said, "No! Wait! Get everyone in the pic!"

I'm sure there were more examples of the New York City friendliness, but I can't think of them right now. Still, I was completely impressed, and I'm looking forward to my next trip. I hope it's soon!