Week One In The Big Apple

My first week in New York has been very surreal. When you're not whizzing around the city trying to see Times Square, Central Park and the Statue of Liberty all in one day, it's easy to forget where you are. With four months to fit everything in, I'm in no rush to do it all at once, which has given me more time to really get to know and appreciate the city.

Getting here was probably the most stressful part. My luggage was 4kg overweight and I was determined not to pay the fee. After two attempts of repacking, loading a bunch on stuff on to my travel buddy (who I had just met) Jen, and wearing about three jackets at once, I managed to get it sent off. Now I'm really not a fan of flying so I was looking forward to watching a bunch of films on the plane to distract me, but we didn't have any screens on the flight like I was expecting from my last experience. Instead I had to fill my time chatting Jen's ear off, reading my new book 'All The Single Ladies', and intermittent napping.

We were all a little emotional when we first saw our rooms as they were nothing like what we were showed online, but then again, when are those pictures ever true? After a stressful trip to Target and getting caught in the rain, we finally got our room looking semi-cosy. Who knew Americans didn't have duvets and duvet covers!? ('Comforters' is what you need to look out for).

We had a handful of orientation activities to attend - because as I often forget, I am actually here to attend university - but we managed to fill the rest of the week with exploring the city. One day we took a trip to Coney Island, however due to the unbelievably hot weather we were all far too exhausted to have too much fun. I tried my first corndog - and wasn't impressed. I also got to taste Williamsburg's famous rainbow bagels and visit the Sprinkles cupcake ATM on Lexington Avenue. We took a walk across The High Line and visited Chelsea Markets. But my favourite activity by far was watching the film Sandlot in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Even the slight rainfall couldn't take away from the amazing views!

So far I am loving New York. I can't wait to get stuck in to my studies, find some hidden New York gems and hopefully help out at New York Fashion Week. I wish I could be out sampling the nightlife too, but I'm not 21 until October - so I'll report back then!

Be sure to keep tuned.

Aderyn x