New York: The City That Never Sleeps
New York, often referred to as “The Big Apple”, is one of the most iconic cities in the world. Located in the state of New York, USA, this city is renowned as a global hub for finance, culture, art, and entertainment. With a population of over 8 million, New York is a melting pot of diverse cultures and ethnicities, creating a unique energy that’s hard to match elsewhere.
A Brief History
Founded in 1624 as a Dutch colony called New Amsterdam, the city was taken over by the British in 1664 and renamed New York. Over the centuries, it has grown into a center for trade and immigration, with landmarks like Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty serving as symbols of freedom and hope for millions of newcomers.
Top Tourist Destinations
- Times Square
Known as “The Crossroads of the World,” Times Square is an entertainment hub filled with vibrant LED billboards, Broadway theaters, and a nonstop lively atmosphere. - Central Park
A green oasis amidst the urban hustle, this 843-acre park offers a variety of activities, including picnics, walks, and boating. - Statue of Liberty
This iconic American symbol of freedom stands proudly on Liberty Island. Visitors can take a ferry to see it up close. - Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
These world-class museums are treasures for art lovers, showcasing collections spanning various eras and cultures. - Brooklyn Bridge
This historic bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn is a favorite spot for walking while enjoying breathtaking city views.
Culture and Lifestyle
New York is the city that never sleeps, offering an endless array of late-night restaurants, bars, and clubs. Its culinary scene is incredibly diverse, featuring everything from street-style pizza to Michelin-starred fine dining. Additionally, it is home to some of the world’s best theaters, including Broadway, making it a top destination for performing arts enthusiasts.
Transportation
New York boasts one of the world’s best public transportation systems, including subways, buses, and taxis. However, walking is often the best way to explore the city’s vibrant streets and hidden gems.
Conclusion
New York offers unforgettable experiences for everyone who visits. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking to soak in the buzz of a big city, New York has something for everyone. It’s no wonder this city is often called the center of the world.
The City That Never Sleeps
Stepping into this city, I immediately felt the vibrant aura of New York. Everyone seemed incredibly busy, rushing in every direction. It felt like everyone had their own agenda, barely paying attention to their surroundings. Just like Frank Sinatra sang in his legendary song, I took a deep breath and thought, “Typical big-city folks.”
From the bus taking me to Times Square, I watched the crowd bustling below, dressed in fashionable outfits that were a feast for the eyes. Many wore polished work attire, while others flaunted preppy styles, clutching mugs of warm beverages. It reminded me of scenes where Carrie Bradshaw gracefully strolled down sidewalks in her Manolo Blahnik heels.
The bus couldn’t stop directly at Times Square, so it dropped me off near 45th Street. Yes, many street names in New York are numeric. Times Square itself is a major intersection in Manhattan where Broadway meets 7th Avenue, spanning West 42nd to 47th Streets. Honestly, I found the numeric naming of streets a bit uncreative. I thought naming them after heroes or notable figures would be easier to remember and less confusing. But as I observed, the locals seemed perfectly fine with it, so I let it go with a chuckle.
Since I was dropped off at 45th Street, I had to walk about two blocks to reach Times Square. As I walked along the sidewalk, I tilted my head back to see the clear blue sky framed by towering skyscrapers. Many New York sidewalks are shaded, not by trees but by the shadows of these tall buildings, creating a comfortable refuge for pedestrians avoiding the infamous New York traffic. The city’s traffic is legendary, with packed streets at all hours. Because of this, bike couriers delivering documents between buildings are a common sight. Why bikes? They’re nimble and can weave through traffic—a car wouldn’t make it on time.
That afternoon, I arrived at Times Square and was immediately greeted by the hum of activity and pounding music. Neon lights in vibrant colors illuminated the area with ads, while renowned stores lined every corner. Discounts were everywhere, tempting me to repeatedly dive into the famous cosmetic stores with unbeatable deals.
Alongside these stores, costumed characters from popular movies like Mickey Mouse, Batman, the Hulk, or Princess Elsa roamed the streets. You can take pictures with them without necessarily tipping, though not all of them are friendly. If you prefer not to tip, it’s best to keep your distance. Oh, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a celebrity here. After all, Times Square is close to Broadway, a hotspot for Hollywood stars who love catching theater performances.
A quick tip: if you’re short on time, visit Times Square in the evening. The vibrant lights and bustling atmosphere are truly spectacular at night.
The Most Expensive Street Food I’ve Ever Had
As I wandered the streets of New York, it wasn’t surprising to see people from every corner of the world. Black, white, brown, curly-haired, straight-haired, almond-eyed, or blue-eyed—everyone was here. The air buzzed with foreign languages spoken in various accents. New York truly is a global crossroads, where every culture seems to converge.
Because of this diversity, finding halal food was quite easy. Around 7 PM, as the chilly air began to bite, my friend Imma and I were starving. The streets were chaotic, and we couldn’t decide what to eat. Peeking into McDonald’s, we saw it was impossibly crowded. The Vietnamese restaurant down the street felt too far for our tired feet.
Finally, we settled on some street food: a plate of white rice, a piece of chicken, and some cabbage for $10—a cool 130,000 rupiahs! We ate standing up since there weren’t any chairs available. Luckily, we spotted an empty bench in the middle of Times Square and dashed over to grab a seat. It was hilarious and humbling, eating overpriced food that couldn’t compare to the local meals back home. Yet, this experience became a sweet memory to end my day at Times Square.
The blend of cultures is what I find most captivating about New York, and it’s what makes me long to return. Sitting in the pedestrian-only zone at the heart of Times Square, watching people go by, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, and feeling the familiar sense of isolation that often accompanies traveling—it’s a surreal experience. That sense of disconnection, pounding in my chest, reminded me of home and made me grateful for all the blessings God has given me this year.