New York is one of the most visited cities in the world. The city receives over 50 million tourists a year and contributes over $60 billion to the US economy. And it's no wonder, who wouldn't want to stroll through the streets of "the city that never sleeps"? Or visit the iconic places we've seen in hundreds of series and movies. But the most interesting thing about it is its multiculturalism, which makes it a unique city in the world with thousands of interesting and curious facts about New York.
An ideal destination for an enriching experience both personally and from a forward-looking perspective. A school trip to New York is probably one of the best decisions you can make.
1. The most iconic city in the world
When you visit New York, it's like entering a dimension you may not have known before. Basic elements like its skyscrapers, its streets, the people, and the city's rhythm will surprise you wherever you go.
And this great city has that particular captivating magic that makes it a must-visit destination. In addition to mixing ingredients such as hustle, passion, glamour, and chaos, it provides a daily myriad of activities that awaken thousands of curiosities you may not know about.
2. New York is multilingual
New York is the mecca of languages. It is estimated that over 800 languages are spoken in the city. New York's language capacity and coverage are so extensive that most public entities such as schools, libraries, criminal courts, hospitals, and welcome centers can offer interpretation services in 200 different languages, making it the most linguistically diverse city.
3. There are few supermarkets and many delis
Yes, there are chains, but compared to many cities, New York has few supermarkets with a variety of products. Instead, on every corner, you'll find a deli or bodega, mini-supermarkets often open 24 hours selling everything from groceries to essential items.
There are also thousands of pharmacies and large chains that sell medications, beauty and aesthetic products, household items, and some processed foods. They tend to be more expensive than supermarkets but are everywhere.
4. The subway is an artistic universe
In the New York subway, you'll see everything from women applying makeup or changing in their cars to preachers announcing the message of salvation and numerous artistic displays. There's a project called Music Under New York, in which 350 musicians play all kinds of music semi-professionally. Every spring season, the MTA holds open auditions for new artists from all over the world who want to showcase their talents legally, with the option to choose schedules and lines.
5. All restaurants are rated
When you arrive at a restaurant, you'll see that they have an A, B, or C letter posted at the entrance. The health department conducts surprise inspections and assigns a letter based on the irregularities found (hygiene, food handling, pests, etc.).
The best grade they can receive is an A, and the worst is a C. The truth is, you rarely find a C, but Bs are quite common. A good tip to keep in mind whenever you choose a place to eat.
6. Pedestrian traffic lights are different
In New York, to indicate that you can cross, the traffic lights don't turn green but white. What's even stranger is that after two seconds, a flashing red hand appears, signaling to the pedestrian to hurry. At first, it's a bit confusing and stressful, but the reality is that the flashing is quite long, which always provides plenty of time to cross.
7. Jewish communities have a strong presence
More than a million Jews from different branches live in New York. You'll see restaurants advertised as kosher, and during the Christmas season, for every Christmas tree, you'll also find Hanukkah decorations, like the nine-branch menorah.
8. People leave unwanted items in front of their homes
You'll see this in residential neighborhoods, beyond the center of Manhattan. People leave boxes in front of their homes with all kinds of items they no longer need: books, utensils, clothes, toys, and even furniture. Often, to make it clear that they can be taken from the sidewalk, they accompany them with Free signs.
9. Brooklyn has a secret tunnel
It was built to facilitate train braking since they then needed a good stretch to reduce speed, but it remained hidden after 1844. In 1980, an engineering student found the entrance, and tours began through what is considered the first subway tunnel. In recent years, due to alleged security issues, tours have been interrupted.
10. Every store has its ATM
Although they accept card payments, stores, and restaurants usually have their ATMs on the facade or inside the business. It's common for them to charge a small fee (around $2) for withdrawing money.
11. Every store has its street bench
It's usually located next to the door. They're supposed to be benches for the establishment's customers, but in practice, they've become just another part of the urban landscape that everyone uses to rest after a long walk through the city or to grab a coffee.
There's no doubt that New York is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. A true architectural, historical, and cultural gem that offers a unique experience to anyone who visits. A destination that tops the list of anyone eager for new learnings and cannot be missed on any school trip.
