There are only so many destinations in this world that can designate a home in the hearts of so many individuals. Its even more rare to find yourself magically waking up in a hotel room placed in the center of it. New York city is one of those destinations that create a sense of opinion whenever recited in a public arena. People either love it, or they hate it...well, I loved it.
Recently I was positioned with the opportunity to fly to New York for a weekend to assist on a photo shoot for the magazine firm that I work for. I jumped on the chance and packed my bags. Along side the art director and the head photographer we took our game from the left coast to the right coast.
This being my first time in New York, I had all the stereotypical preconcieved notions of New Yorkers being huge assholes and pushy Yankee fans...needless to say, I left my Giants hat at home but not needed. New Yorkers are some of the nicest people I have met, some of the most genuine individuals that are alive simply because they want to live. New York first strikes you as the type of place where someone goes after a bad break up and wants to re-discover who they were before they submitted to the life of relationships. It is just a very free flowing city with lots of inspiration.
I spent 90% of the time walking the streets solo with a comforting playlist of Radiohead and Broken Bells. Camera in hand and hoodie tag teamed with my messenger bag. I soon realized that the Lower East Side was my favorite spot, definitely on the list of favorite spots ever. Reminded me a lot of San Francisco, youth debating with their inner demons on the street, smoking and drinking with their wayfarers. I found myself falling in love with the women who ride rusted old bikes while wearing heels and carring parcels of fresh cut flowers to their assumable tiny apartment, ah the fictitious romance our minds create.
I met up with some good friends while in the city, Kevin and his sweet digs overlooking the only tangible city lights. I never did shake Tania's (sp?) hand, from which I am still regretting, so deliver my apologies. Kevin your hospitality wont be forgotten, you will always have a place to stay in SF. To Spencer and Mackenzie, I appreciate your existence, two beautifully charming young ladies who still some how find a way to keep themselves grounded in a city so driven by floating above the rest. Thanks for a great dinner and a quite memorable bar experience you guys. Vanessa, there will be a next time...promise, and ill have a Moleskin addressed to your sister. To Josh, your family, always remember that...NYU is your home, hell New York is your home, you were meant to be there and no where else, suits you more perfectly than any block in Orange County ever will.
Alas I left the city that the Hova himself calls home with a craving to return to the Bay. San Francisco will continue to be my home and my inspiration.
Here are a few snaps from my 48hr journey.
PS: ill be moving to Tumblr like the rest of the world...
