If you’re considering moving to NYC, many things need to be considered before making a move. The city is one of the most expensive places in America, and it can be challenging to find affordable housing. It’s also very crowded with people from all over the world. But once you get used to the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, you may miss the slower pace of life in your hometown.
If that sounds like you, then here are eight things to consider before moving to New York:
1. The subway can be a weird place
If you’re going by public transport, always choose a carriage full of people rather than one where there’s nobody else inside. Also, never go into an empty carriage; it’ll be dirty and smelly.
2. New Yorkers love circular foods
I am talking about pieces of bread and pastries. With the number of bakery stores in the town, you can easily survive on loaves of bread. Just picture:
- Cinnamon rolls with your breakfast cup of joe
- A whole wheat baguette with your lunch meal
- An apple pie for dessert after dinner
And then, for something sweet, one of the many mouthwatering desserts offered everywhere around the town, from lemon meringue pie to chocolate cake with vanilla ice-crème frosting.
3. Find an apartment
Most people share apartments in New York City because they’re way too expensive to live alone. You might be able to find a roommate through websites like Craigslist or Roommate Match. Still, the company or university you’re attending can also assist you in finding housing before you begin your coursework.
4. Getting around
No one really rides in New York City, and taxis are expensive and often get caught in gridlock, so buying a metro card from your nearest station and then hopping on the train is the simplest way to get around. Many trains run less frequently during the weekend and walking is also very common. Get yourself a comfortable pair of running shoes before you embark on your journey.
The miles add up pretty quickly if you’re exploring the city. Remember that the town consists of numbered avenues and streets, so make sure you know where you’re headed. For example, if you live in Flordia but want to transport your car without driving consider contacting a reliable car shipping New York service to help get your vehicle to its new destination.
5. Eating on a budget
Inexpensive meals in NYC can be found on the street corners and in cheap pizzerias. You can also eat cheaply at many of the city’s famous delis, where you can get great sandwiches and pastrami on rye.
For those who want something more substantial, try the ubiquitous hot dog stand. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a walk down one of the city’s many ethnic neighborhoods, where you’ll find authentic cuisine.
6. Healthcare
Health care in the United States isn’t universal and can be expensive without health insurance. If you don’t have it, it’s worth having it organized before you travel. To get some tips on which health insurance plan may suit you best, talk to the people at your hostel/hotel/school.
7. Stay Connected
Many parks, from New York City to London to Paris to Berlin, offer free Wi-Fi so you can check your email or update your social media accounts on the go. If there’s no Wi-Fi at the park, you can always buy an inexpensive local SIM for your smartphone (AT&T and T-Mobile USA sell them).
Also, you can use the help of your smartphone (or a few apps), and you can live your best big city lifestyle by ordering delivery, checking out fun things happening nearby, and scoring cheap theater tickets.
8. Personal space isn’t important
At least once a week, a stranger will bump into someone else on the street, and chances of enjoying more than one subway ride too close to another person’s armpit. It doesn’t mean anything. People have become accustomed to living their lives within proximity of others. And, no matter what, eyes-to-eyes are not allowed.
In conclusion, you should visit New York City as soon as possible. There are many things to do and see, especially considering all the museums, galleries, restaurants, bars, clubs, etc. But, most importantly, you need to experience the real New York City.
