Dear New York City

Dear NYC,

You are truly one of the great wonders of the world. Maybe not in the same way as the pyramids in Egypt or the Grand Canyon in Nevada or Ayers Rock in Central Australia.

You may not have a massive cultural history, but you are so magically compelling. You are truly an incredible city, full of buzz 24/7, with an atmosphere that makes me want to be up at all hours so I don't miss a thing.

From the Wall Street suits, to the trendies in Brooklyn to the underprivileged African-Americans in Harlem - this is your culture, this is what makes you unique. What amazes me is the division between economic classes.

From the almost 100 per cent white 'Upper east side' beautifully and sickly a scene straight from the teen drama Gossip Girl to 'Harlem' where 'whites' (or maybe just me) are confused for Spanish Latinos, because why would an upper middle class white girl be walking with her equally white cousin on Malcolm X Boulevard by themselves.

But I do feel this is slowly changing and there is hope. Brooklyn is one example. Brooklyn could be compared to Redfern in Sydney - ten years ago both mostly know for the large amount of government housing and the underprivileged residents.
With a tarnished reputation, most people avoided venturing there unless for a specific purpose, which would almost always be during daylight hours. Location is probably one of the key reasons for change in both areas - many people (in particular housing developers), felt that there was a wasted opportunity in these areas and decided to try and get young people to see the positives of living in a 'cheap' but central location.

Now, both Redfern and Brooklyn are becoming increasingly populated by young 20 to 30 'trendy' kids who love vintage fashion, are into art and culture and are generally the trend setters for their age group. Let's hope this change continues with the likes of Harlem and even the Bronx and Queens.
Not in the sense that housing prices start to increase in these areas and little rich white kids start to move in and take over, but more so in the sense that these areas become a place where people want to visit, not places that people want to and in some sense have to avoid.

Aside from this class divide, I cannot say many major things that make me think twice about NYC. (I do have some issues with the US as a whole, but let's not tarnish NY with these greater problems).

NYC, your bright lights in Times Square still capture my imagination, with the advertising so impeccably timed that although I work in the industry, I am still swept up in their ideals and false promises.
The incredible feeling and vibe that you exude that time can stand still whilst you watch the people around you, hustle and bustle with there busy lives. Almost becoming entrapped in their energetic yet focussed (almost serious) state of being.
And, your mix of beautiful people (not in the superficial sense), from a range of nationalities and cultures from all around the world in such a small and busy city, makes me feel welcome every time I visit.

Maybe one day, I won't be a visitor anymore.

Lots of love always,
A