There is something magical about your first trip overseas, especially when it’s to a place as iconic as New York City. The city’s skyline, the yellow cabs weaving through crowded streets, and the dazzling lights of Times Square – it was all so familiar, yet surreal. Up until this moment, I had only seen these scenes in movies. But now, I was about to live them.

This was my first adventure across the Atlantic, and I was equal parts thrilled and overwhelmed. From the awe-inspiring views of Central Park to the electric energy of Broadway, every moment in NYC made me feel like I was stepping onto a movie set. It’s a place you need to experience for yourself – a destination that is not just worth visiting but is a must for every travel enthusiast’s list. Here is a glimpse into my journey and the places that made me feel like the star of my own movie.

Discovering New York’s warm heart

One of the biggest surprises during my time in New York City was how kind and friendly the people were. I had heard plenty of stories before my trip – tales of hurried, stressed-out New Yorkers always rushing from one place to another and barely acknowledging each other. I was also aware of the city’s challenges, like the visible number of homeless people on the streets, which can sometimes make the atmosphere feel heavy. But what I experienced was completely different.

From the moment I arrived, I noticed how open and helpful people were. Whether it was the cashier at a coffee shop offering a warm greeting or the bus drivers who let us ride for free without asking for payment, kindness seemed to be everywhere..

One moment that stayed with me happened while we were exploring the city and taking photos. As we tried to get the perfect shot, a young woman walked by, smiled, and gave me a warm compliment out of nowhere. It was such a small gesture, but it meant a lot. Simple, genuine interactions like that aren’t something I often see back home in Germany, and it left a lasting impression on me.

Despite the city’s fast pace, there was an underlying sense of community and friendliness that caught me off guard in the best way possible. It reminded me that even in one of the world’s busiest cities, there is still room for kindness and connection. This side of New York – the one you don’t always hear about in stories or headlines – made my trip even more special.

Accessibility in the city that never sleeps

New York City sets an example of how accessibility can be done right, yet there are still significant areas in need of improvement. We were staying in the southern part of Manhattan, near the World Trade Center, and relied on the bus system for getting around. I was really impressed by how accessible the buses were for wheelchair users. The buses were easy to board, and the ramps worked smoothly. Plus, the bus drivers were incredibly helpful, offering assistance when needed and even letting us ride without hesitation when we weren’t sure about the fare. The prices were also reasonable, which made getting around the city much more affordable than I had expected. On top of that, many taxis are equipped with ramps, making them a convenient option as well. They don’t come with any extra costs and can be easily booked using popular apps.

However, the subway was a different story. The New York subway may be fast and iconic, but sadly, it’s far from wheelchair-friendly. Many stations don’t have elevators or accessible entrances, and even when they do, many are often out of service, making it nearly impossible for people with mobility challenges to use the trains. While this was disappointing, it didn’t affect us too much — we ended up walking a lot, which turned out to be an amazing way to explore the city.

Walking around Manhattan felt like being in a movie – every corner was more exciting than the last, and I found myself stopping to take pictures constantly. From the bustling streets near the World Trade Center to the peaceful spots in the parks, every area offered something unique. What was great is that almost all of the major attractions we visited – like the 9/11 Memorial, Top of the Rock, and even the stunning views from the observation deck – were completely accessible and made for a smooth experience. We also had no issues visiting the American Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Modern Art, which allowed us to fully enjoy the fascinating exhibits. Almost all the shops and cafés we stopped at were wheelchair-friendly, which made our stay in the city even more enjoyable.

A city of endless food discoveries

One of the best parts of visiting New York City is the food – and I’m not just talking about the typical tourist meals. While pizza, burgers, and fast food are readily available on every corner, NYC’s diverse food scene truly has something for everyone, from casual eats to high-end dining experiences.

A must-try for any pizza lover is Joe’s Pizza, a classic spot where even Leonardo DiCaprio has grabbed a slice. It’s a no-frills, authentic New York pizza joint, and trust me, the pizza here is everything you imagine when you think of NYC – crispy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. Whether you’re sitting down or grabbing a slice to-go, it’s an experience every pizza fan should have.

Of course, like any city, New York is packed with fast food options, and I have to say – Wendy’s was a surprising favorite of mine. While it’s a fast food chain, it was one of the best budget-friendly meals I had. The burgers were surprisingly good, and for the price, you can’t beat it. If you’re looking to save a few bucks without compromising on taste, Wendy’s is a solid option.

If you want to enjoy your meal with a view, I highly recommend heading to the Hudson River. Along the waterfront, there are plenty of spots where you can grab a snack and enjoy the beautiful view of the river and skyline. Whether you’re enjoying a sandwich or just strolling along, it’s the perfect way to spend an evening in New York.

No matter where you go – whether it’s a fancy restaurant or a quick street food spot – New York’s food scene is an adventure of its own. However, one last tip: skip the hot dog stands. Sure, they are everywhere and look tempting, but in my experience, they were overpriced and underwhelming. Maybe I just had bad luck, but they definitely didn’t live up to the hype. Save your money for something more worthwhile – the city is full of amazing food options that are worth every penny!

Review on NYC

Looking back, my trip to New York City was truly unforgettable. It was a whirlwind adventure that left me craving more, and now I have even more places in the U.S. on my bucket list. The city’s energy, iconic landmarks, and unique atmosphere made every moment feel extraordinary. It’s the kind of trip that stays with you, not just for a few weeks, but for a lifetime. With its vibrant streets and cinematic charm, New York has a way of captivating you and leaving you wanting more.

I can honestly recommend the city to anyone who is looking for an exciting and dynamic destination. It offers so much, from world-class attractions to unexpected moments of kindness and hospitality. I’ve even started thinking about visiting again, perhaps around Christmas, even though I’ve heard it’s incredibly crowded during that time. The holiday lights, the festive spirit, and the atmosphere would make it all worth it, I’m sure.

Another great thing about visiting NYC is how it can help improve your English skills. Being immersed in the language, even in everyday situations, makes a huge difference. Whether it’s chatting with locals or navigating the city’s streets, it’s a perfect place to practice and pick up new phrases.

In terms of accessibility, New York impressed me greatly. The buses were easy to use with a wheelchair, and nearly all of the major attractions were very accessible. The only real downside was the subway, which still presents challenges for people with disabilities. However, aside from that, the city has done a great job of making it easier for everyone to explore and enjoy. In fact, compared to many places I’ve visited, including Germany, the U.S. is far ahead when it comes to accessibility. It’s a great example of how barrier-free design can be improved, and I hope other places will follow this lead.

All in all, New York City was an incredible trip – one that I’ll always remember fondly. It exceeded my expectations in so many ways and has made me more excited to explore even more of the U.S. in the future. If you’re considering a visit, don’t hesitate. The city is waiting to welcome you, and it’s guaranteed to be an experience you’ll never forget.