Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to New York City

I've called New York home for almost seven years, and let me tell you, I've always wanted a real, honest guide to the city life. Something that doesn't sugarcoat the bad stuff but shows you the whole picture β€” the good, the bad, and the ugly.

⊹ ΰ£ͺ Λ–πŸ—½β‚Š πŸ™οΈ β‹†πŸŽβ‚Š πŸš•β‚ŠπŸ•β‹†. β‚ŠβŠΉ

NYC living: the real deal

New York City apartment living, cozy apartment home, dog-friendly apartments NYC, finding the perfect NYC apartment

Finding your perfect place

Finding an apartment in New York is no joke. It's crazy competitive, and places fill up FAST. The best time to move is usually Spring or Fall β€” better temperatures without having to deal with the snow or the blazing summer heatwave. If you don't mind the cold, January and February are your best bet for cheaper rent.

If you like a place, don’t think about it for too long or it might get rented out the moment you decide to change your mind.

Recycling: it’s not as easy as it seems

New York recycling is a whole different ball game. Instead of one big blue bin, you gotta separate your papers in one separate recycling bin and metal, glass, and plastic in another. And get this β€” you have to rinse everything super clean before recycling! Who knew?

Mattress covers

I learned the hard way about mattress disposal. Don't just toss it out on the side of the street! You need to wrap it in plastic to avoid bed bugs. It’s also easier for the NYC Sanitation to pick it up and dispose of it properly. Trust me, it's a lesson I won't forget.

Brooklyn fall foliage, autumn in New York City, colorful New York City fall, NYC fall foliage, fall season in Brooklyn, New York City seasonal changes

Seasonal shifts

New York weather is all over the place. Hot and humid summers, stunning fall colors with beautiful weather, freezing winters (though not as bad as before because of global warming), and rainy but pretty springs.

New York weather is all over the place. Hot and humid summers, stunning fall colors, freezing winters (though not as bad as before because of global warming), and rainy but pretty springs.

The trash conundrum

New York sidewalks aren't always a pretty sight. Trash, and sometimes even worse, is a common issue. You'll see why New Yorkers love sneakers! And be ready for the occasional rat sighting.

Embracing the fast-paced lifestyle

New Yorkers walk fast – it's just how we roll. We don't have time to waste! So, be aware of your surroundings and don't stop in the middle of the sidewalk.

New York City subway system, NYC subway map, subway transportation NYC, public transportation New York, navigating the NYC subway, subway tips for tourists

Mastering the subway

The subway can be confusing, especially if you're new to the city. Remember, uptown is north, downtown is south. It's a simple trick that took me way too long to figure out. πŸ˜…

⊹ ΰ£ͺ Λ–πŸ—½β‚Š πŸ™οΈ β‹†πŸŽβ‚Š πŸš•β‚ŠπŸ•β‹†. β‚ŠβŠΉ

Walking your dog in the city

dog waste removal NYC, sidewalk cleanliness NYC, NYC park cleanliness, responsible dog ownership NYC, dog waste laws New York City, clean streets NYC

Pee zones

Watch where your dog pees! Those tree guards are there for a reason. Dog pee kills trees. Let's keep our city green.

Poop happens

Clean up after your pup! It's gross to see dog poop everywhere. Grab a poop bag and keep one handy. It's your responsibility.

⊹ ΰ£ͺ Λ–πŸ—½β‚Š πŸ™οΈ β‹†πŸŽβ‚Š πŸš•β‚ŠπŸ•β‹†. β‚ŠβŠΉ

check out my Culebra travel vlog!

⊹ ΰ£ͺ Λ–πŸ—½β‚Š πŸ™οΈ β‹†πŸŽβ‚Š πŸš•β‚ŠπŸ•β‹†. β‚ŠβŠΉ

SUGGESTED FOR YOU

Previous
Previous

The Best Daytime Date Ideas

Next
Next

Your Essential Guide to a Cleaner World