Ever since I was little, I’ve read books and seen movies that featured the beautiful architecture and landmarks of New York City. Not only is New York City where Spiderman lived, but it’s also where the television show Friends took place, and it’s home to buildings like the Empire State Building and the Rockefeller. I have always dreamed of going, and finally, that dream came true!
In March of 2022, my friend Elle and I were discussing where we would go on a trip if we had the chance, and we kept landing on New York City. With flights being so cheap, we found that this was the perfect time to go: now, when we’re young and have the means. It started off as just an idea, but it slowly turned into a concrete plan.
We spent months looking up fun places to go to, visit, and eat at. I’d never gone on a trip with a friend before — just my family — so this was such a fun experience! You don’t have your parents planning it for you or telling you where you have to go, so there really were no restrictions. We made a huge list of everywhere we wanted to go, and we made that happen!
It was a little daunting going to such a large city with only one other person, but that’s also what made it such an unforgettable experience. Learning to manage the subway system, walking through the streets of New York, and exploring Central Park all with my bestie by my side was such a thrill.
The older you get, the more likely you are to make excuses not to go somewhere; you have a significant other, pets, school, family, or a job that you can’t just get up and leave for a week or two, so instead of booking that trip, you stay home with your regrets. It’s hard when you’re younger because you don’t have the means, and it’s hard when you’re older because you don’t necessarily have the same schedule as your friends, which is why now, in your 20s, is the perfect time!
Maybe New York isn’t the place for you, but BC, Italy, or Greece could be! It isn’t even as expensive as you might think, especially because now is the time you can slum it a little and go for a hostel or cheap Airbnb! You get to explore a whole new world with your best friend at your side. You’ll have these memories forever.
No matter where you decide to travel, I urge you to do it; it’s fun to travel alone or with family, but with your best friend is a whole new experience. Maybe you’ll be like me and my friend, laughing our heads off on Fifth Avenue with everyone thinking you’re crazy, but you both know you’re having the time of your life.