Other Sides of America: Pennsylvania and New Jersey Weekend Trips

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Despite still being more spread out than most European countries, the northeast coast is the most condensed area of US.  With five major cities within a 450 mile stretch, there is a lot of life happening on and around the Atlantic coast.  Living in NYC is great, but to get a feel for the way… Continue reading Other Sides of America: Pennsylvania and New Jersey Weekend Trips

4th of July NYC: Should You Stay or Should You Go?

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Americans are quite patriotic and very proud of their country, and the Fourth of July is truly the day to observe how proud an American can be. The 4th is also a great excuse to celebrate with massive fireworks, enormous barbecues, cold brews, and red, white and blue themed everything. With so much going on,… Continue reading 4th of July NYC: Should You Stay or Should You Go?

Five Things NYC’s Libraries Offer Which Might Surprise You

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As a New Yorker – and especially as an international acclimatizing or building your life here – the New York Public Library (NYPL) system has a lot to offer you. Going far beyond the usual library fare of books, e-books, DVDs and computer access, NYPL offers cultural programs, exhibitions, classes, and assistance in a variety… Continue reading Five Things NYC’s Libraries Offer Which Might Surprise You

Getting Around NYC: An International’s Guide to Cycling

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When you think of getting around New York City, biking might not be the first option that springs to mind. While many internationals are probably accustomed to cycling being a common mode of transportation, in the US it tends to be reserved as a recreational activity and it’s not quite as common to see cyclists… Continue reading Getting Around NYC: An International’s Guide to Cycling

An International’s Guide to Renting in NYC

Finding and securing a rental apartment in New York City can be a challenging process. Being prepared and familiarizing yourself with New York City’s unique rental process will give you the best chance of getting an apartment. Preparing The first step is to make sure you know what documents will be required. You should begin… Continue reading An International’s Guide to Renting in NYC

NYC’s Government: How it Works

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When moving to a foreign city, understanding how the political system works can be a complicated affair. Even if you are not able to vote in the city’s elections, it is best to be informed on who’s in charge and how policy changes take place. As a resident, these will certainly affect you!New York City… Continue reading NYC’s Government: How it Works

Celebrating the History of New York’s Immigrants

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The impact of immigrants on New York City’s culture is evident throughout the city: from the Lunar New Year festivals to the Haitian churches sprinkled throughout the boroughs, the hip Spanish restaurants serving traditional tapas to the ubiquity of Italian food, immigrants’ footprints are everywhere. This is no surprise when you consider the city’s rich… Continue reading Celebrating the History of New York’s Immigrants

Top Ten Must-See International Events in NYC

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Arguably the best part of living in New York is the fact that New Yorkers are constantly exposed to other cultures by simply walking on the streets. There are also plenty of major international events in New York that focus on specific countries; one of the privileges of living in New York is that we can take… Continue reading Top Ten Must-See International Events in NYC

Chinese New Year in New York City

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This year, on February 10 people across the world will celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year,  the most widely celebrated traditional Chinese festival. Also known as the Spring Festival, this fifteen day festival begins on the first day of the lunar new year, and ends on the fifteenth day of the new year with the… Continue reading Chinese New Year in New York City

Volunteering in NYC: Donate Your Time

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In a city of more than eight million people, there are plenty who have need of help – be it food, a place to stay, or counseling. Superstorm Sandy has only added to the pressure on resources and staff at the city’s charities, and the ongoing recovery efforts are set to continue for yearsNew York… Continue reading Volunteering in NYC: Donate Your Time