We Live Here

New York City - Our Host Speaks Out

August 29, 2006

By Brandon Williams, We Live Here Host -

Over the last decade it seems that the word "tourist" has become a four-letter word. Why? Everyone loves a vacation. But some say the term invokes images of a tropical shirt clad traveler sporting dark socks and sandals snapping picture after picture of all the popular sites.

Cities build virtual Shangri Las for these visitors who arrive with plump leather wallets to purchase key chains, shiny spoons, and shot glasses that bear the name of their chosen destination. America has transformed travel into big business, which provides wealth, jobs and the growth of cities, and that's great! But somewhere along this yellow brick road the true flavor of our greatest American cities has been lost.

What makes a city great is not the incredible sites to see, but rather the people of that city, living their day-to-day lives. And this is my quest — to get a glimpse of the "real sites" to see in America, and not through the dry pages of a travel book, but through the eyes of the locals who make our vacation spots their homes. And hopefully, together (you the reader or viewer at home and I the visitor), we will discover the true spirit of a city by learning the local's favorite places to eat, stay and play.

First stop — the Big Apple, New York City, home to the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty, none of which I saw on my visit. Instead I spent time with four passionate New Yorkers who gave me the low-down on the city that never sleeps.

Early in the morning I met up with Anthony in Greenpoint, Brooklyn — not a typical destination spot for vacationers. Anthony looked more like a soap star than he did a fireman, something I'm sure the guys down at the firehouse never let him forget. After a quick tour of his neighborhood, we headed to Peter Pan Bakery.

"They make the best donuts in the world, and I should know; I used to be a cop!" he claimed with the pride of a true New Yorker. I am no stranger to the culinary delight of fried sugared dough, so I was ready to try the best our world had to offer. Anthony was right; the donuts were amazing, and the bakery was something you might see in an early Scorsesse film. The owner, a friendly Greek fellow, regaled us with stories of the neighborhood's loyalty to his establishment. It was only 9 a.m., and I was already feeling like a local.

I headed back to the city where I met up with Stephanie, a professional shopper who towered above me a good five inches. She is one of those few chosen people who can wear a potato sack and make it look elegant. This entitles her to make her living shopping for those who are "fashion challenged" but "financially gifted."

We spent some time exploring N.O.L.I.T.A. (North of little Italy). She grew up in the neighborhood, and experienced its evolution to the hip spot for fashion and art in NYC. We popped into several boutiques and one-of-a-kind fashion stores. I was a little overwhelmed and in obvious need of some new style. She was a real pro, commanding the attention of every storeowner with ease. Through her wisdom, I, the retail greenhorn, learned how to shop like a real Manhattanite.

After all that shopping, I had worked up quite an appetite and was in the mood for some traditional New York cuisine, which according to Ashley is Korean Barbeque. I met her on 32nd street, also known as Korea-town. She is a true "foodie" and claims that she has attempted to try every ethnic food in the city. We sat with two of her best friends while mounds of raw meat were brought to our table that had opened up to reveal a barbeque pit built into it. My grub guides were witty and sarcastic as we cooked our own meals. I felt as if I was experiencing a secret treat known only to the most adventurous city dwellers. Even the spicy, candied squid couldn't keep me away from this culinary gem. Ah... only in New York... or Korea.

New York is known for its nightlife, and I couldn't leave until I had gotten a real taste of the Big Apple. I met Suzette in the meat-packing district for a quick tango lesson, before hitting the hottest lounges and clubs.

She sailed around the room with ease, while I tripped around like a dizzy monkey. Not exactly the picture of grace, I stepped on her feet more often than I did the beat. She was forgiving and truly excited to show me her town as I am excited for all of you to experience New York from the eyes of its locals.

Comments

Post a comment

Name:

Email Address:

URL:
Remember Me? YesNo

Comments: