One of the many things I love about New York is its energy, especially the thrill of watching movies being filmed right on the streets. I used to live on the Upper West Side near the Hudson River, close to a mansion where filming was a regular occurrence. They also frequently shot scenes in the nearby park along the river. Watching the stars glammed up and being filmed was inspiring—it added a touch of magic to the city.
Another thing I adored was the vibe of New York’s coffee shops. Back in 2012, when I first moved here, there were more mom-and-pop coffee spots, which have sadly become less common over the years. I remember hearing about a man who walked into a coffee shop during the day and lectured people for not working, questioning how they could afford to live in the city while hanging out in cafés. Maybe he was a little jealous of the freedom! I loved writing and studying in those bustling coffee shops—the hum of people chasing their dreams always energized me.
New York is also where you bump into celebrities all the time. But I never approached them—after all, New York is their home, too, and I’m sure they get approached often. To me, what makes New York truly special is its people. It’s one of the most inspiring cities in the world, and the people’s passion makes it so vibrant. Have you ever been to New York or another city that inspired you? I’d love to hear your stories and what fuels your creativity!