Le magazines Times Out asked New Yorkers to name the aspects of NYC they were most grateful for. Let’s take a look at their answers and if they correspond to our standards, to us French people.
1. The bagels
The best bagels are made in New York. No doubt about it. But the real question is elsewhere: does a New Yorker weaned off a bagel experience it as badly as a Frenchman deprived of a baguette?
2. Boredom does not exist in New York
And there, I agree. 100%. It is absolutely impossible to get bored, even on a rainy Sunday. There are so many things to do, so many attractions, restaurants to discover that this one quest could take a lifetime.
3. There is public transport for all destinations
It is true that the city is well served (apart from Red Hook). And the express train system can let you cross the city from north to south quite fast.
4. The food comes from all over the world
TRUE! It’s not always very good, nor very healthy, nor very cheap, but yes, if you search a little, you will find everything you want.
5. The Parks are beautiful
Yes. A thousand times yes. Central Park is a wonder in spring and fall. Lots of stuff going on there. And if you have a dog, and/or a sled, it really is paradise.
6. Christmas window displays are beautiful
It’s true. But they have nothing to envy to ours – understand those of the Spring or the Galleries.
7. No need for Amazon. Everything is two blocks away.
Ah, ah, ah! No, there no. Delivery people are everywhere. All the time. I attended the delivery of two Levain Bakery cookies. Afterwards, as these are the through who receive your packages, the authors of the article may not know that they are delivered;)
8. L’architecture
We all agree: you will not have enough of a year to discover all that New York conceals in architectural treasures.
9. Museums and culture
Yes. The offer is rich and varied, as long as you are also interested in the galleries.
10. Diversity
This is the point I would have put first. There are so many different languages, faces, people that you feel part of a whole.
11. There is no judgment
TRUE! Come as you Are. No one will make you think.
12. Free-late show
It looks like you can catch free tapings at night. I promise, I’ll find out.
13. Help arrives at lightning speed
At the same time, if we consider the sound of sirens, we understand why ambulances are so fast.
14. Everything is open late
It’s true. But people are at the table at 6pm. It compensates a bit.
15. The franchise
New Yorkers say what they think. What can please or shock. That doesn’t stop them from being extremely polite.
16. The frantic pace
Oooh yes! The city is on 220 – no, real 110. But you get the picture.
17. Autumn in Central Park
See item 5.
18. Endless Opportunities
Absolutely. You will soon be talking to a complete stranger who happens to be the founder of one of the biggest industries. It’s amazing.
19. Les New York Rangers au Madison Square Garden
Uh. There, I dry up. Give me a little more time.
20. Tourists from around the world
Good, OK, French people especially. And in addition they walk slowly – see point 16. But it’s always gratifying to live in a city that attracts so many people…
