I am back in New York City and loving every minute of it. It is amazing how many things there are to do here. New York City has always been a hopeful dream for many people, but when they actually come to visit they are often disappointed. At a first glance, the city is dirty, filled with homeless people and rude businessmen, and everything is unreasonably expensive. They visit Times Square, Union Square, The Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Top of the Rock. Although they are of course beautiful, they are also constantly crowded with confused tourists and pushy tour guides; so really, how could anyone learn to love New York by just visiting those places? What people don't realize is a great culture and creativity the city offers. The streets are infused with art and allow room for people to emphasize their individualism.

For starters, there are dozens of local cafes and pastry shops within a two-block radius. Because of the abundance of cafes and their small spaces, the decor in each of them are always so unique and interesting. I've even seen swing sets as a main method of seating at a cupcake place! Second of all, there is so much opportunity for people especially striving musicians and artists. For example at almost all subway stops in Manhattan, there is a music performance underground. I've seen violin, saxophone, keyboard, drums, and many more. They sell their CDS or just have a sign that direct people to their Youtube channels and what not. Surprisingly, many of them get a really good responses as well as donations. In addition to, there are many free and fun activities that are open to the public. In Brooklyn there is a program called B.A.R.C. and it is a volunteer program where people can sign up to walk dogs for an hour around the Brooklyn Bridge - allowing pet lovers and dogs to benefit from this program. One of my favorites is kayaking. Throughout the week, there is free kayaking around the Hudson River as well as under the Brooklyn Bridge. What an amazing and selfless thing it is for people to open these kayaking businesses for the pure purpose of the public. Lastly, there are a large variety of cuisines for a large range of prices. There is room for old business as well as new, modern ones. On the same block you can find a popular 99-cent pizza joint with a fancy and expensive Italian restaurant filled with just as many people. The city gives room for contemporary restaurants without giving up the good old traditional ones. And of course there are always things in between, for example last week a popular Ukrainian restaurant had a 1920's night. Usually their dishes cost a pretty penny but on their 20's night they honored the prices they had back then offering dishes from 50-cents to 3 dollars.

All in all, for those who see New York at a first glance are not at fault for the bad impressions they get of the city. But for a local and a native, it can arguably be one of the best cities in the entire world.