Hi everyone!

Currently typing this on a gloomy day at SeaTac Airport in Tacoma. I know, surprise surprise, it’s raining in Seattle (LOL). The reason why I’m writing this though is – well, funny story. I accidentally mixed up my flight back home. I had booked a return flight the same day as my DEPARTURE.

I know I know, who does this? I didn’t realize until last night when I tried checking in and saw that my return flight had already passed. So I made a few calls and hopped onto the first flight to the West Coast… and since 10:30am PST this morning, I’ve been on 3 standby flights and haven’t been able to get on any one of them. (I guess I shouldn’t complain considering I got off the standby list for first class from JFK – SEA).

While I was really hoping not to spend my entire Sunday at the Seattle airport staring at dark nimbostratus clouds, I learned to make the most of this situation.

Let’s talk New York – 

I’ve officially designated NYC to be my favorite city in the country. Yup, sorry LA. NY takes the win. I don’t know, maybe it’s just the rushed feeling I get whenever I walk the streets. Sure, the streets are a little scary as cars are honking mercilessly at jay-walking pedestrians, but overall seeing the abundance of taxis truly adds some color and life to the streets.

Because it was my first time to NY, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I took a screenshot of everything I saw on Pinterest, researched vigorously on Instagram, and outlined a tentative agenda. It was hectic but all worthwhile. I’ve gained so much from this experience and while I had some unforeseeable changes in my itinerary, I made the most of my experience and sought most of what I could with the limited time I had.

(How beautiful is Central Park?!)

Read more on my first day here. Here’s a quick recap of some of my tips (favs down below!)

• You MUST have some pizza. I didn’t get to try any bagels, so I highly recommend you to try some out and let me know.
• Walk with the flow of traffic. Jay walk when necessary. I kid you not, don’t even bother waiting for the light to change to start walking because people WILL get annoyed with you for just standing there. Key? Be constantly on the move, BUT move with caution. Keep your eyes peeled for incoming traffic.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for directions. I asked a few people to make sure I was heading the right direction on the subway.
• Walk. Just walk. On my last day there, I just walked around midtown Manhattan and stumbled upon cute sightings – great for photo ops. Your feet will hurt, but your camera will thank you later.
• Pack light before heading to NYC. Since it is largely known for shopping (hello Fifth Avenue and SoHo!), I suggest making room in your luggage beforehand. ALSO, a great place for souvenirs is in the heart of Times Square! I forgot the intersections, but it’s by the M&M’s store 😀

(Quick photo op for the books!)

Because we had beautiful weather on our last day there (contrary to LA’s rainy weather), our hotel opened the rooftop, and we caught a glimpse of Manhattan in the morning and at sunset. It was remarkably breathtaking. It was in that moment where I knew I would come back. While LA is a more relaxed, NY mirrors LA in its diversity and open-mindedness, which I absolutely love. Until next time, NY!

(enjoying the view and weather from up here)