Travel: 5 Things I Learned During My First Month in "The Big Apple"

A little over a month ago, I packed my belongings from my bedroom at my mom's house in Boston, MA, to move to the big city of New York. While here, there has been a few things I have taken into perspective and I wanted to take a moment to share with you.

If you are currently thinking about moving to relocate to the most populous city in the United States, there are a few things to consider. I have posted a list of  five observations below, that are simply just my own personal reflections. If you have moved or are currently living in New York, please feel free to add any other suggestions or experiences in the comment box below. Please be reminded that your feedback, can help someone else. 

1. The cost of living is high. New York is EXPENSIVE to live, and CHEAP for everything else. I would suggest living with roommates, or expect to pay 1500+ for a studio or one bedroom. Yes, you may find something else with lower costs, but the amount of space you get might not be able to fit all of your previous home's belongings. You may have to also stock up on Ramen as food to eat. Once you pay first, last, and security; chances are your  savings is nearly gone. Think smart, and save up.

2. Healthy eating habits are hard to stick to. Fast Food is locally convenient in many areas. From food trucks, to Mcdonalds, to pizza there is much to choose from. If you want to stay healthy, and on your current diet; I would suggest creating a personal plan you can stick to regardless of the temptations. It's okay to treat yourself, but too much treating can pack on pounds.

3. Falling asleep is not as easy as it seems. The nickname "The City that Never Sleeps" was given to this city for a reason. Each and everyday I lay my head to rest, I am forcing myself to sleep with the ruckus going on in the background. If it is not the loud music blasting outside my window at 2:00 AM; it's the super fixing the wall or plumbing upstairs. lf you want to live somewhere where there is peace and quiet , I would suggest looking into the suburbs or somewhere of the sort.

4. Public Transportation is convenient and accessible, but you never know what to expect. When riding public transportation; DO NOT, DO NOT, have any expectations! Do not expect to get to work on time because of the  information provided  to you through google maps (schedules change all the time), do not expect someone to give you the correct directions to where you are going when you are lost, and do not expect someone to help you if you are being harassed by a creepy man/woman on the train. Out here its pretty much fend for yourself.  You may come across someone  who is kind, but they too may be a creep. Also, always carry pocket change for  your train/bus fare. You can get fined up to $100 for not paying by MTA police. 

5. Job hunting requires extra attention.  If you are not relocating for work,or do not have a job lined up; I would suggest giving yourself 2-3 months to search for work. New York is a big city with many people and competition is very high. Take an hour or two, each day to submit  as many applications as you can, follow up, and network as much as possible. If you are in desperate need of money, there are many retail/ restaurant opportunities to start off. Keep your resume handy, and be willing to introduce yourself to your local manager at a store or cafe nearby.

Be Encouraged

Noelani