“People have a drive and enthusiasm for life that I haven’t found elsewhere”.
“Most people in New York are not New Yorkers. They decided to come here. That is part of what makes the city so interesting”.
Michela Bondardo
The first time I saw it, I knew I had arrived. At first, I could only make out the silhouette of buildings, with the occasional light against the night sky. The scene was not unlike the postcards you see. The bus disappeared into the tunnel and emerged onto the ground of the city itself. I was truly in the city. It was a feeling of exhilaration mixed with fear. The road was alive with cars even though it was late in the night. Even more exciting was seeing yellow cabs everywhere, appearing in all types and sizes. I never dreamed that one day I would be getting into one. At the same time, I realised I was alone in a strange city. A city I only knew by name.
I knew where I had to go but did not know where I was heading to. The moment I got into a cab, I was mesmerised by the tv ad at the backseat. This and everything else made up the life of the city. I was almost sorry when the ride came to its end.
As I alighted from the cab, I found myself at a crossroad – Lexington Square and 53rd Street. I felt alone again. Assuring myself that it’s a safe city, I searched for my destination using only the apartment number I was given. I knew not if I were to head east or west. I just knew I couldn’t give up. I walked past a stall selling kebabs. I went past several pedestrians. Soon, to my dismay, I reached the end. Where was 250? Contemplating between going into a pub (249) and an apartment to ask for direction, I chose the latter. I made the right choice for I had arrived.
Manhattan was all about skyscrapers. To find myself staying in one was a truly marvellous experience. I was on the 26th floor. The apartment was almost transparent with its glass wall. I could see the Chrysler Building not far from where I stood. I could see the busy street below, decorated with tiny yellow cabs. My room had a huge window, overlooking other buildings. Imagine my excitement when I found that I need not draw the blind when I go to sleep. It was a strange experience as if I was camping. Only I wasn’t in a wood but a concrete jungle. It was a moment of serenity.
