Spotlight Destination | Emma Matsuda
Shimmering, sparkling lights carried on for
miles, in every direction you looked. The world
felt like a never ending jewel box, with never
ending possibilities and horizons. We gazed
outwards from every corner of the terrace, for
quite some time - possibly hours. Philosophical
discussions about the meaning of life and
human existence ensued afterwards.
Being in Times Square, it almost feels like you’re
in the middle of an apocalyptic world. That sense
of drama and urgency is there, and you feel like
you’re at the centre of the world. With that being
said, it also resembles a heavily constructed false
utopia. The lights and signs are pretty, but after a
few visits they seem rather tacky.
The other thing about New York that a lot
of people travelling from overseas might be
surprised by is the abundance of green and
plant life. There are some absolutely stunning
parks there. Central Park does live up to the
hype, as well as Madison Square Garden and all
the rest. There are also squirrels!
The other thing people may be surprised by,
is how easy and accessible it is to eat healthily.
Supermarkets in NYC are very impressive, with
make-your-own-salad stations, fresh fruit for
days, and organic produce. Not that I especially
cared, because I was too busy sourcing out the
nearest 99c pizza joint.
In short, my favourite thing about New York,
and what makes it - is the people. And I don’t
even like people that much. The cultural
diversity and range of personalities really opens
your eyes to the enormity of the planet and the
complexity of its inhabitants. The fact that not
everyone is educated, or has a home, makes
you feel grateful and privileged for coming
from somewhere like Australia, where it is easy
to access things like Centrelink (the dole), and
free health benefits.
On top of that, New York is what you make
it. It is a place for go-getters and actioners,
and only the toughest and most resilient will
survive. It is a beautiful concrete jungle, with
greenery and life painted in the streets. New
York City is somewhere that everyone should
visit at least once in their life, but be warned:
By the time you’ve caught your breath and
adjusted to it, it’ll be time for you to leave.
Issue 4, 2016 | The Travellist
49