So, you’ve moved to New York city, the most famous city in the whole of America. The problem is, you don’t want to appear like a tourist. Instead, you want to walk, look and act like all the other locals, albeit with a quirky accent! Here’s how you can blend in with the locals in New York city:
Manhattan Isn’t Everything
Thanks to shows like Sex and the City, many of us believe that Manhattan is the start and end of everything New York. However, now you’ve moved to New York, the likelihood is that you’re living somewhere like Brooklyn or Queens.
These suburbs are less pricey, with more home for your buck. There’re even nice little suburban areas with gardens, nice schools and without the need to climb 16 flights of stairs if the elevator packs in.
Manhattan is where the tourists go, but there are plenty of wonderful bars and tasty restaurants off the island where you’ll find the locals – who could end up your future friends!
If you are living in Manhattan, avoid hotspots like Times Square, and instead venture into Hell’s Kitchen or Harlem where you’ll find less tourists and more New Yorkers.
Locals Don’t Use Cabs
Yes, the yellow cabs are iconic of New York, but to truly blend in with the locals, you’re going to have to get used to the subway.
Every local is a master of the New York subway and train system, knowing exactly which line to take and which train will get you there faster. The only time you want to take a cab is if you’re completely desperate, as this ride will likely cost you the same as your monthly metro card.
One of the biggest tourist giveaways is to stop at the top of the subway stairs, looking confused. Even if you have no idea where you are, keeping walking for a block. Otherwise, you’ll anger everyone behind you on the stairs.
99c Pizza and Food Carts are Life
True, hot dog stands are a must for tourist photographs, but you’ll still find hordes of locals lining up at food carts. That’s because for a few dollars you can get yourself a hearty meal and a coffee in no time at all.
Of course, many people avoid these places, as for such a cheap price, it must be a health hazard. A true New Yorker wouldn’t care, they’d still buy that falafel, hot dog or pizza and enjoy every last bite!
Get Yourself a Yankees Cap
It doesn’t matter if you follow baseball or you’ve no interest in it at all, every true New Yorker owns a Yankees cap. Wear it with pride, whether you’re out for brunch or for walk in the park. Every other local will give you a knowing nod, accepting you as one of their own.
You might want to bone up on some baseball knowledge on the off-chance that a fellow local asks you about a recent game, though.
