These Vagabond Shoes [Part I]

For many years, my count for countries-traveled-to have been much higher than that of states-traveled-to. I still have ways to go before the state count surpasses the country one, but at least I can now happily add one more state to my measly list of three! If you did not already pick up on the reference of my blog post title, it is a phrase from the classic, New York, New York. Yes! I finally made a six day trip to the Big Apple with two other hao peng you's just about a month ago.

Taken on top of the Empire State Building

Let's just say that it was not at all your average relaxing vacation. In fact, for the duration of the trip, all I could think of was FOOT MASSAGE, please, somebody, anybody! I would like to think that I have a decently high tolerance for massive amounts of walking, so I will blame it on my incompetent shoes. Also, to my defense, the average New Yorker surely does not walk the amount we did each day, right?! I mean, as non-frequent-returning tourists, we naturally had to hit up as many tourist attractions as possible!

"How do you like New York?"
Honestly, I think my sentiments differ slightly from the song New York, New York. I do not know if "I want to be a part of it" quite yet. My stance is neutral at this point. I do not dislike it, but I do not necessarily feel a strong desire to immerse myself in the big city. I will probably have to live there for a while to hash out a stronger opinion towards this seemingly coveted place of stay for the gloriously energetic young adult years. I think I will always, always be a California girl though : ) Actually, I even left feeling a bit anxious and fearful should I need to move there for grad school. Somehow, I feel like a bit of a misfit in much of my interests and preferences compared to the supposed norm there, but again, I would need to live there and experience it for myself to come to a more solid conclusion because my basis of comparison at this point is with my friends who currently work and attend grad school there. Good to gather insight, but bad to compare.

Because it has already been a while since my return and because I already have other subject matters lined up for blogging, this entry will unfortunately be put to a halt. Perhaps I will make a part II come back some day with some gorgeous photos and highlights because there were definitely many despite my seemingly lack of crazy enthusiasm for the city!