10 Tips For Surviving New York by a New Yorker
Although I have been a resident of Fairfield County for almost two years now, a New York City gal never loses her touch—once a New Yorker, always a New Yorker! Living there, going to school there most of my life, and my “212” necklace around my neck, not only gives me a tiny, tad bit of street cred here in Fairfield, but it also makes me so excited to share my own “inside scoop” on the GREATEST city in the world. So, here you have it: 10 tips for surviving New York by a New Yorker.
1. Be nice to everyone: 90% of the time, they know someone you do! Despite EVERY popular opinion, locals are actually nice and always willing to help a damsel in distress (trust me, I’d know). Growing up on the Upper East Side, it was basically a small town: everyone knew everyone, and I ran into people all the time. Even after a very crowded day somewhere, being a regular, I would be remembered the next time I went in as the girl with the big smile who always said thank you. (They even let you cut the line!)
2. Sneakers all day, black booties all night. If you go anywhere in heels, I just apologize on behalf of the many, many, MANY blocks you have to endure; your feet will hurt like a B!TCH. A pair of sick sneakers or booties not only are practical, but they make your outfit look so cool. How can you run from one sale to another? Just kidding. You better be running to steal that cab.
3. The app, Citizen, keeps you updated on the crime. It’s a great app to have, especially when you come for a visit. You will be able to check out what streets/parts of Manhattan to avoid.
4. Do not walk slow. I know this is a cliché, but come on. New Yorkers pop their headphones in and book it. They don’t have the time (or the patience) to wait behind a person taking selfies with their selfie stick or admiring the tall building above them.
5. Nightlife for cheap: The Lower East Side. Great bars, young crowd, amazing Italian food, and even better Mexican food. Most people come to NYC and go straight to Nobu, Lavo, or even worse, Tao. Check out any place on 2nd or 1st and you’re in for a scrumptious and eventful evening.
6. Don’t hail a cab at an intersection, you may as well be a part of The Hunger Games. Walk up half a block, either on the avenue or side street, and get it there. You will be more efficient. (AND OUT OF THE WAY!!!!!)
7. Speaking to anyone? Make it short and sweet.
You’re in a cab: “78th and Madison. Thanks.”
You’re at a bagel store: “Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese. Toasted.”
Coffee store: “Large Iced Latte, milk and sugar.”
To your friend: “See you in 10.”
Nothing’s worse than SMALL TALK. Eek.
8. If you need a bottle of water, GO TO A CVS. Those hot dog carts in midtown charge 800% more for no reason. Who in their right mind charges $5 for a bottle of water?
9. Left side of the escalator when walking, right when standing still. ‘Nuff said.
10. Don’t be afraid to have fun, be yourself, and wear whatever the F*!$ you want. If living in the city has taught me anything, it is that you can do whatever you want to do and no one really cares. Maybe they’ll judge you internally, but hey, they aren’t saying it out loud. That’s what is truly fabulous about being in the craziest, most diverse, accepting, and amazing place in the world.
Lauren Elliot