When you are traveling, there are different ways to experience a new city. Some people are okay with seeing popular tourist destinations, while others want to fully engross themselves in all a city has to offer. If you are anything like the latter, and you are visiting New York City, there are several things that you can do in order to truly discover what NYC has to offer.
Travel Through The City
When you are visiting New York City, one of the most distinct ways that you can experience the unique city is by simply traveling through it. The metro or subway is one of the most distinguishable in the world. Of course, like many transit systems, they have their flaws. It will not be without its delays, construction interruptions, as well as being relatively dirty and it would be wise to be cautious or even hesitant to travel during certain times in the evenings. However, the transit can also be home to some unique experiences that showcase the flavor of New York, from buskers and musicians, to simply people watching. Alternatively, moving about the city, whether by foot, on the city’s recognizable yellow taxis, or by bicycle are other great ways to take in the atmosphere and surroundings throughout the city.
Visit Different Neighborhoods
New York is a large metropolitan city that brings many different cultures and people together. This translates to a melting pot of a city where no neighborhood is the same. Although they may have similarities, there are distinct differences between the different boroughs. Visiting different neighborhoods will give you a better idea of what New York is like as a whole, and not simply expose you to a single reflection of its people or culture. It is wise to spend time in these different neighborhoods to see what there is to experience in them and get a feel for different New Yorkers.
Tours And Guides
If you are looking to discover more about New York City than what appears on the surface area, consider signing up for tours and guides. An NYC tour provides you with a guide that can show you around different points of interest that will also teach you about different historical facts. It is one thing to go to a tourist attraction and take pictures and selfies around them, but if you want to tie more meaning to different places, learning about them, especially from locals will give you a new perspective and appreciation. Additionally, neighborhood tours can give you insight into not only the places, but the people living there, hearing and learning about stories of how neighborhoods have changed over time.
Go To A Show, Museum, Or Event
Another way to experience what New York has to offer, consider how it is a city that lives and breathes art in a variety of ways. If you are visiting, there is a wide range of attractions to consider from museums and art galleries that will be unique to New York. You can go to different events and venues, depending on your budget and personal interests. If you are a connoisseur of arts, visiting galleries or attending certain shows like operas or ballets might suit your interests. If you enjoy a different kind of art that still resonates with the city, consider different types of shows and events hosted in smaller venues like poetry slams, musical performances, or comedy gigs. New York has something for everyone, no matter what it is you enjoy.
Experience Different Cuisines And Foods
If you want to experience the true essence of New York City, look to explore different restaurants and local cuisine. It can be easy to want to eat and dine in food establishments that you recognize and are comfortable with but look to do some research and try new foods and experience new flavors. As mentioned, New York is a melting pot of different cultures, and with that, many people bring their foods with them. However, New York provides the opportunity to create dishes that are inspired by the tastes of home but with other creative twists that may be unique to New York City.
There is no greater experience to have when you are traveling than to live like the locals, even if it is only for a few days or weeks. Even if you live in New York City, exploring and discovering different experiences that you never had before can give you a new appreciation of what your neighborhood has to offer. There is always more to discover, from tourists to local residents, and you just need to be open to new experiences.
Source by socialifestylemag.com
