N.Y.C.

New York City...the greatest place in all of the Universe...I recently came back from my first all-too-brief visit there, and now I am here to share my findings with you lovely people!

1.) The best methods of transportation are ranked as follows:

          1. Subway -- It's not creepy, smelly, or rat infested. Yes, you occasionally have to sit next to a sleeping homeless man, but it's extremely fast, there are tons of interesting people, and there is air conditioning)

          2. Biking -- I guess this is a little bit more hip, and you can get anywhere the subway doesn't run. And yes, there is the exercise factor. 

          3. Walking -- I live in a city where the extent of my walking is to and from my garage to the mailbox. I am used to wearing impractical shoes regardless. If you do the aforementioned and try to walk the length of Central Park, you will regret this.

          4. Taxi -- Taxis are for schmucks. I know they don't have homeless people in them and they are not underground, but the second you step into a taxi, it already costs more than a subway ride. Unless you need to get to a very specific place that is far, far away, don't. take. a taxi.

2.) Be assertive! (check it) New Yorkers don't care that you're from out of town, they aren't demonic or cruel. They're just busy and sometimes stressed. It's not that you aren't important, but when you are surrounded by masses of millions, it's easy to get lost. Speak up if you need directions, don't settle if a waitress forgets to bring you a side of fries, etc etc. Don't be bitter or rude in doing so, though. THAT is where the impression of rude New Yorkers comes from. So be friendly, but be aggressive! Fragressive!

3.) The city is filled with tons and tons of tourists. Tons. Which in turn makes you feel a little bit more comfortable taking pictures of everything, but that isn't the point here. The point is that people around you are always conversing in different languages. The city also has a huge Spanish-speaking population. So pay attention in class or go buy yourself some Rosetta Stone software!

4.) Dining recommendations! Serendipity III, Brasserie 360, Luna Piena, Tottono's, Chop't, Sarabeth's. All are amazing! In terms of going out to eat, before you go, check online for restaurant reviews, menus, etc. As I was walking around, I usually ended up eating at whatever place was closest to where I was standing. 99% of those times, I am pretty sure the owner had printed out a Zagat label and taped it to the door...especially in Chinatown. Three cheers for being spontaneous, but screw eating dim sum that smells like a dead turkey. 

5.) Knowing these things, do whatever the hell you want! The city is your oyster!

BON VOYAGE!

P.S. Any other tips?