As someone who has traveled to several foreign countries, I am ashamed by the amount of noteworthy cities I have yet to explore in America.
I am thankful and proud to say that at 20 years old I have looked over Paris from the Eiffel Tower, walked the Great Wall of China, and served the people living in the dumps of Guatemala City.
However, I am unable to boast the exploration of cities in short proximity such as Chicago, Boston and, up until last weekend, New York City.
It’s embarrassing, really. I love seeing and experiencing new places and culture and it seems silly that I haven’t ventured off to major cities in America, which are relatively nearby.
So, needless to say, I was pretty stoked when I got the opportunity to travel to the Big Apple, even if it was only for a day.
I was basically tagging along on my brother’s college visit to Columbia University.
The day started off with a two-hour train ride from Philadelphia to NYC.
My dad, my brother and I eagerly found our seats and started our usual goofing off.
Soon after, the train attendant came to politely but firmly inform us that we were in the only quiet car and needed to behave as such.
Having a family that mainly communicates through giggles and laughter, I knew this would not end well.
The energy exhausted trying to remain quiet resulted in us just falling asleep, which I think was best for everyone.
We awoke to the view of the New York skyline. This sight is a bit overwhelming for those who are used to Cleveland and Toledo skylines, where 10 high-rises seem like a lot.
We got off at Penn Station, bought our subway passes and headed to Columbia’s campus.
The only other times I have been on a subway system were in foreign countries. It is much simpler to understand in English.
Columbia is such an awesome school—it made me reconsider my love for BG. But don’t worry; I will always be a falcon.
Somehow, we managed to cram visiting the college, seeing the athletic facility, Central Park, Times Square, the 9/11 memorial, Rockefeller Center, along with stopping for food all into one day.
Granted, with the amount of time needed for traveling to and from attractions, we spent approximately three minutes at each, but it was still amazing.
Everything I loved about the foreign countries I’d visited is present in New York: the way the city is alive with everybody having their own story, the fast pace, the opportunity and the beautiful architecture.
I realize I’m not giving ground-breaking advice, but I encourage anyone who hasn’t been to NYC to visit.
I especially recommend this to people who are eager to leave the country to find adventure. Don’t be too quick to dismiss the unique experiences available in your home country.
Adventure is everywhere. You just have to look for it.
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