The magazines Time is up asked New Yorkers to name the aspects of New York they were most grateful for. Let’s take a look at their answers and if they match our standards, us French.
1. Bagels
The best bagels are made in NYC. No doubt about it. But the real question is elsewhere: does a New Yorker weaned on a bagel experience it as badly as a Frenchman deprived of a baguette?
2. Boredom doesn’t 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 search could take a lifetime.
3. There is public transport to all destinations
It’s true that the city is well served (aside from Red Hook). And the express train system can get you across the city from north to south pretty fast.
4. 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 bit, you’ll find everything you want.
5. The Parks are beautiful
Yes. A thousand times yes. Central Park is a wonder in the spring and fall. There’s a lot of stuff there. And if you have a dog and/or a sled, it really is heaven.
6. Christmas windows are beautiful
It’s true. But they have nothing to envy to ours, mind you those of the Spring or the Galleries.
7. No need for Amazon. Everything is two blocks away.
Ha ha ha! No, not there. Delivery people are everywhere. All time. I attended the delivery of two Levain Bakery cookies. Next, since these are the through who receive your parcels, the authors of the article may not know that they are being delivered 😉
8. The architecture
We all agree: a year won’t be enough to discover all that New York hides in its architectural treasures.
9. Museums and culture
Yes. The offer is rich and varied, provided that 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. Nobody will make you think.
12. Free late show
It seems that you can see free recordings at night. I promise, I’ll find out.
13. Help comes with 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 18:00. Compensate a little.
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
Well yes! The city is on 220 – no, the real 110. But you get the picture.
17. Autumn in Central Park
See point 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. Is fantastic.
19. The New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden
Erm. Here, I dry. Give me some more time.
20. Tourists from all over the world
Well, okay, especially the French. Plus they walk slowly – see point 16. But it’s always gratifying to live in a city that attracts so many people…
