You may have noticed some hints on my Instagram, so I might as well tell you. I’m moving to New York! Yup, it’s happening. I’ve always known I wanted to live in New York for at least a year or two, and what better time to go for it than in your twenties. Maybe my recent 26th birthday gave me the push, or maybe it’s all my friends having an amazing time in the city without me. But what I really think did it for me is that I feel a sense of strength that I haven’t felt in a long time (maybe ever?).
The thing about being a twenty-something is that you basically spend the decade figuring out who you are and becoming comfortable with yourself. Learning to truly listen to what you want and need deep down, without letting anything or anyone else influence you. And the best time to make a big decision, like moving across the country, is when you’re in that strong, healthy state of mind. That’s when it doesn’t feel like such a big decision at all, but rather an adventure and a chance to grow even more.
So now that the decision has been made, I need your help! Where do you think a twenty-something like myself should live in the city? What are some of your must-see spots? Go-to restaurants? Bring it on! In return, I’ll be sure to share my journey with you, including the move, the new apartment, the fresh inspiration, and so much more :).
Brenda Says
I’d say Brooklyn is the best place to live for a twenty something year old. Also, Junior’s Cheesecake is a must!
Diana Says
Check out my NYC city guide! It doesn’t have a massive amount of places but they’re all quality spots! http://yellowmondays.weebly.com/home/city-guide-new-york-city-ny
Caroline Says
Ah so fun! New York is seriously the best and I love going to school/living there. If you can find an affordable place in the West Village you should absolutely live there. Gorgeous streets and really great restaurants,bars, and more. It’s also just so beautiful and then you’re close to the Hudson River Park which is great for running and also an incredible view of sunsets! I love Rosemary’s in the West Village and Lafeyette for brunch in Greenwich Village. Also Soho Park (it’s a restaurant) has the best burgers and great indoor/outdoor seating in the summertime.
Caroline
http://www.peachykeencaroline.com
Peyton Taylor Says
So fun! I am ready to make that move too! Wahoo! Best of luck!
Xo
Peyton
perfectlytayloredblog.com
Rachael Says
YAY so exciting :) !! Congrats!!
Liane Says
Exciting!!!
I second what Caroline said about West Village. There’s a lot of good restaurants around the area, my favorite is Amelie and Soto!
Upper East Side is a good neighborhood to find a place because it’s away from the hustle and bustle, but it is lively enough with all the restaurants and shops in the area.
Gabrielle Says
My boyfriend just moved there about a month or so ago…we’re from Cleveland Ohio so it’s not far but he loves it! He lives in Queens and although his rent is way more expensive than Cleveland I truly think NYC is something that everyone should experience at least once, especially in your 20’s. When I was there my favorite spots were SoHo, West Village, and of course anything on the Upper East Side! Biking through Central Park is an amazing experience and shopping down Bleeker St is a must!!
I hope you have a stress free move!!
Adeline Says
Long time reader and first time commenter, but just wanted to stop by and say, woohoo congrats!!! I absolutely love that line about how big decisions, when made at the right time, are an exciting adventure rather than a difficult move. Can’t wait to hear more details but until then, congrats again! X
Minaa B Says
You’re going to love it !! I recommend you try a few restaurants in Greenwich village – its in the NYU area and by Washington Square park. The scenery is beautiful and there’s lots going on. What I will say for starters is almost anywhere you go in Manhattan be ready to stand in some ridiculous lines to enjoy a good meal but I think it’s worth it, plus you’ll adjust.
Top 3 restaurants: Market table, August, Buvet, [there are so many more in the area that if the wait is long for one you can just literally walk around the corner to another spot ha! lol, good luck on your move and safe travel – so glad I stumbled up on your blog for the first time btw)
If you’re ever in Brooklyn & you’re a pizza kind of gal you MUST have pizza from Lucali restaurant, they also make gluten free pizza as well. (Even Beyonce & Jay Z eat there lol)
Minaa B –
fromminaab.blogspot.com
Style Bits & Bobs of M.E. Says
Congrats on moving to NYC. I lived in NYC for graduate school and I now that I have graduated a part of me wants to go back. The parks are a must see, try all types of food and go to different place. I agree NYC is a place that everyone should see at least once. The place I want to visit and live for a bit is London!
Kristen Says
Congrats on the move! I moved shortly before my 26th and just celebrated my 27th in the city! If you plan on living on your own, you’re most likely going to have to show you make 40x your rent…definitely a tough requirement! I live in Queens (LIC, which is up and coming, although a wee bit slow with both, as far as I’m concerned). I absolutely love Greenpoint in Brooklyn as an alternative to Williamsburg, where the rents can be just as pricey as Manhattan. It’s close to both Queens and Williamsburg, not too far into the city, and there are tons of new places opening up (Northern Territory, Dirck the Norseman, Tørst).
Definitely stop by Dominique Ansel or Momofuku Milk Bar for some amazing sweets, Dead Rabbit for quality cocktails, Governor’s Island during the summer for a day trip away from the crowds, and the giant beer garden in Astoria. Feel free to email me with any questions or suggestions…I moved from the East Bay to NY, so I may have some insight :)