17 Things I’ve Learned In The Big Apple

Ruzaan du Plooy
Sep 5, 2018 · 4 min read

Excuse this story not being a crypto-related, but rather all the lessons I’ve learned while traveling New York City.

It’s been my dream as a kid to witness the bright lights of Broadway, the busy streets of Manhattan, and the yellow sea of taxi cabs taking important people to important places. I write this article with a happy heart and absolutely no disappointments.

I booked my trip pretty last minute, and by that I mean, 2 days before the time. I hope these 17 things I’ve learned on my trip to New York City will make it an absolute blast for you when you decide to go. It’s an amazing city, as are most cities, with exploration and adventure just waiting to happen.

  1. People here are generally nice, they honk a lot, but they’re not the cold heartless New Yorkers I’ve come to know on TV.
  2. A pedestrian stop sign does NOT mean stop, it means continue as long as you don’t die in the process.
  3. If you’re a new driver in New York City, don’t be surprised to think that 2/3 of the pedestrian population is suicidal. They’re not, feet and wheels just share the road in this city.
  4. Waiting staff have no idea on what a “bill” is…perhaps this pertains to most of America and not just NYC. Best to stick to “cheque please.”
  5. People here are pretty awesome. I ran into a man that was a manager of an entire building during 9/11 — All the residents had to evacuate but he stayed and slept in the lobby to make sure all the pets of the building would be taken care of.
  6. The statue of liberty is best to be enjoyed close up, please do book that water tour to take you straight to her… its well worth it.
  7. There are endless ways to be inspired in this city, if you lack the eye for it…just look up at any of the amazing buildings being erected in this already fabulous city.
  8. Weekends are disastrous…well…only if you don’t fancy even MORE crowds. Now it’s you and everyone else that lives here on vacation…helloooo line ups! I do recommend traveling in the work week.
  9. Something I’ve learned long ago and was reminded of on this trip… “You never know so always ask. ‘No’ is a mild cut, while regret is a cancer.”
  10. Fashion isn’t what you think it is. If this is important to you, put your best foot forward but be prepared to meet the world capital for style.
  11. Call ahead to a hotel you’ll be late for, they are used to flakey travellers and will not hesitate to fill your spot if they don’t hear from you.
  12. You don’t need to see the whole museum, honestly, they're huge and can be exhausting. Map out the things most important to you and make sure you prioritize those before your feet start hurting.
  13. Subway. Subway. Subway. Unless you’re traveling with children, then perhaps not. But take this from someone who has taken the taxi and the busses around New York. The subway is by far the most efficient way to get around, though may be a bit frustrating to figure out at first. Not as easy as the Underground in London, you have to actually pay attention to every stop the subway makes (no intercom or digital signs). Just nice to be aware of.
  14. Commuting into NYC from a neighbouring city really isn’t a big deal. Staying in Philly and commuting in every morning is a breeze by train or bus.
  15. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. I’ve since made friends from all over NYC, New Jersey, and even Montreal, and trust me, it’s the traveler friends that seem to stick.
  16. The NYC Library gives free tours from 11am-1pm…the reading room is amazing- just saying.
  17. Mr. Purple is the place to be if you’d like to experience a rooftop ‘party’ or if you feel like a cocktail and a swim at 2pm. Either way, you will love this place.

I’ve heard it said that we must travel as much as possible if able, even if we don’t think we have the funds to do. And while I would never recommend going into debt for a trip, I do believe that if we want something to happen, there is always a way. I have, perhaps unconsciously, followed this advice each time I step on a plane, and I have never regretted any of the adventures I’ve had the opportunity to experience. No matter where you travel, I wish you safe and eye-opening journeys. Thank you for coming along with me and stopping by today. Have a wonderful Wednesday and a lovely start to the week.

Ruzaan du Plooy

Written by

Crypto-Enthusiast, Marketing Guru, Owner of 3 Crown Marketing

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