Your Best Tool for Abroad & Learning English

September 27, 2019

No matter how long you’ve been in New York City, you probably know that New York City celebrates practically everything, and we practice everything in a BIG way. That’s why when October rolls around, everything turns spooky with Halloween, and people get excited about the cooler temperatures and all the outdoor activities that come with the month of October. From pumpkin and apple picking to hayrides and haunted houses, even the most adult-like people here in the Big Apple turn into the biggest excited kids.

The great part is that everything that’s available in New York City offers you the chance to put your English language skills to practical use while you’re taking advantage of all these great activities. Be sure to gather all your friends to figure out what’s the most appealing to everyone, and get out there! Interact with other event-goers over the weekend, and find out what they’re checking out. It’s a great way to learn new social phrases, you can learn new hashtags to find out what’s trending in your area, and best of all, you’ll learn more about the city and the English language than you even imagined! While October has plenty to do thanks to the cooler temperatures and the excitement in the air, here are just a few things to check out this month – and you’ll probably see me there, too!

1. 2^nd Annual New York Pizza Festival, Saturday, October 5^th – Sunday, October 6^th, Crescent Avenue, Bronx

If you’ve got this weekend open, be sure to make your way to this amazing, pizza-filled event. With over 25 pizza makers in attendance (five are from Italy!), you’ll be sure to get as much pizza in your belly as possible. With tons of options available as well as drinks and entertainment, you won’t want to miss this amazing event. This is also a great time for you to test out your English skills with other event-goers, but if you have your translation app out, you also may want to add Italian to your rotation this weekend—surely you’ll be hearing a lot of Italian phrases, so this is a great way to test your skills in another language, too!

2. New York City Wine and Food Festival, Thursday, October 10^th – Sunday, October 13^th, various areas in Manhattan

If you’re a foodie and looking to mingle with the best of the best in the culinary world, this is your event. This is the largest food and wine festival in New York City, with over 80 spots around the city taking part in this huge event. This event is wildly popular and attracts people from all over the world, so if you’re interested, be sure to save up and plan ahead if you want to get your money’s worth. Come prepared with some of your most common English phrases, but since there will be plates from all over the world being features, it also might just be helpful to have your translation app set to multiple languages just in case!

3. Harvest Fest and Pumpkin Patch, Sunday, October 13^th, Queens Botanical Garden

It wouldn’t be October without something to do that’s related to pumpkins! Halloween tends to take over the city for the entire month of October, but in this location, you can catch a break from the scaries and just enjoy the fresh air with the pumpkins. Take part in live music, join nature walks, and even enjoy some beer or cider in the field. It’ll give you a break from the day-to-day bustle in the city, and you’ll truly feel like it’s autumn here. Bring your friends for a day of fall, and be sure to practice your favorite English phrases about lovely weather, autumn happenings, and even questions about features the garden has to offer.

By now, you guys should know that the fall is my favorite time of the year, and there’s something so wonderful about it while in New York City. My mood is lifted, and I’m much more apt to get outdoors and experience the fresh, autumn air. Central Park is beautiful this time of year, and it’s a great opportunity for a picnic in the field or a long walk along the paths. You’ll love watching the leaves change color, and as always, the scenery is wonderfully Instagram-worthy – and what better way to practice your English than seeing what kind of clever hashtags you can include! Happy Fall, readers!

June 27, 2019

I’m sure that I’ve mentioned this before, but one of the reasons I love summers in New York City is that everyone seems to be in constant relaxation mode. The subways are lighter since more people are spending more time outside, and the mood always seems happier when the weather is warm and inviting. Don’t get me wrong – July can be an intense month when it comes to the heat and the power of the sun, so I have to stress how important it is to be safe and protect your skin. Hydrate often, and be prepared with sunscreen.

With that sad, there are always a ton of activities available in New York City in the summer, and July is no exception. With the 4^th of July holiday early in the month, you might notice that traffic and general population is quite light this week, as most people disappear to other pockets of the country to celebrate the holiday. (This is another reason why I love this month in the city – it feels like I have the entire place to myself!)

Given the friendly vibe that this weather gives to people, this is a great time to put your English-speaking skills to use with those around you, whether they’re your friends or even strangers. The summer is also a time that attracts tourists from all over the world, so keep an open mind because you never know who you might meet!

1. Waterfront Day, July 13^th

Honestly, what better way to enjoy the sun AND the water than spending some time in Manhattan’s Seaport District? With tons of activities to participate in and plenty of scenic views to remind you that you live in the greatest city in the world, you can easily spend all day in this area. Due to the increase of tropical storms and rising seas, you’ll also be able to learn about how you and your community can help to preserve the area. Pick up brochures to practice your English reading skills, check out social to see what everyone else is saying and help with the written conversation, and engage with other event-goers to find out what other activities they participated in so you can use your English-speaking skills!

2. Ozy Fest, July 20^th and 21^st, Central Park

If you plan enough ahead for this one, this is a can’t-miss event. Dubbed as the most interactive New York City festival, you’ll be able to watch cooking demonstrations from well-known TV personalities, listen to some of the most popular musical acts, and be a part of many live discussions with many other famous personalities. With tons of international food options and the ability to meet tons of people, this is an opportune moment for you to practice your English skills with the hundreds of attendees around you. It’s the best of both worlds, so gather your friends and gear up for an exciting summer weekend in Central Park!

3. Restaurant Week, July 22^nd – August 16^th

I’ve written about this event before, but it’s too good to not repeat. If the summer heat is dragging you down and you need some relief, this is a great opportunity for you to try out some eateries that you haven’t gotten around to trying at discounted prices. The menus will offer you options that you may not have otherwise been able to try due to your budget, so this timing is a great time to try something new. And as always, this is a great opportunity for you to practice your English skills – from reading the menu to communicating with your waiter, you’ll be able to walk away from dinner happy that you tried something new and with a sense of relief from the summer heat.

Whether summer is your favorite season or one that you prefer to spend indoors, New York City has endless options for you to take advantage of everything that the city has to offer. With tons of outdoor activities and plenty of indoor things to do to escape the heat, you’ll never be bored during the month of June. With so many people being out of town this month, you’ll definitely want to explore pockets that you haven’t seen before. Plus, you’re surrounded with plenty of opportunities to give your English skills some practice and real-world use, so keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to ask for help from those around you. Happy Summer!

March 29, 2019

April is one of my favorite months in New York City. I’ve put my winter coats and scarves into storage, I open my windows for fresh spring air, and I tend to take more walks outside to enjoy the warmer temperatures and longer days. It just generally heightens my mood. With that said, I also tend to be more socially active once these spring days roll around, meaning I’m exploring the city more and enjoying life outside my apartment more often.

If you’re new to the English language and looking to gain some real-world NYC experience with it, these activities will provide you the opportunities to practice with your friends and other New Yorkers. After all, the Big Apple is a giant cultural melting pot, meaning there are thousands in this city that speak other languages themselves, looking to enhance their own English skills. Here are a few things to do this month in New York City that will keep you entertained while you fine-tune your English.

1. Pillow Fight, Washington Square Park, April 6^th

This is a bit of a different one, and this is the first I’m hearing of this event myself, so I’m interested in finding out more about it, as I think I’ll be attending this year! Whether you choose to participate or simply watch the comedy show in front of you, it’ll surely give you plenty of entertainment for the day. Bring your own pillow or stuffed animal for some innocent fun, and you never know who you may meet while reliving your childhood, so come prepared with your best getting-to-know-you English phrases, and get ready to have some fun. What’s really cool is that this is actually an international event as well, so cities from all over the world will be participating in this on the same day, meaning you can be a part of this on an international level, too! Be sure to follow whatever hashtag they create for social media to follow all the other global events!

2. Earth Day, April 22^nd

Every year on this day, the nation comes together to pay attention to how we’re treating our environment and give back a bit to Mother Earth. Since the weather on this day is typically pleasant and warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, this is a great opportunity for you to spend some time in the many amazing parks that New York City has to offer. If you wanted to take it one step further, you can look into ways that you can volunteer to make the city a greener place by planting blooms or cleaning up your neighborhood. Many people also choose to completely turn off their devices, lowering their carbon footprint for the day. For some English practice, turn off your phone and have a picnic in the park and have some good old-fashioned conversation. You’d be surprised at how cleansing it can feel!

3. Tribeca Film Festival, April 24th – May 5th

Every year, this festival takes place to spotlight and honor local film projects. The neighborhood during this weeklong event completely transforms to cater to those coming to the area to participate in this festival. From screenings of the movies and films to specials in area restaurants and bars, you and your friends can get a taste of current media culture right here in Tribeca. Talking about your favorites can help you practice your speaking skills, and watching the actual films can help you with your listening translation strengths. If April is a bit too rainy for your taste, another way you can honor this event is look at past film participants from prior years and hold a viewing party at your apartment.

No matter how long you’ve been in New York City or how long you’ve been practicing your English, there are endless ways to put your learnings to use. Since April is still kind of a transition month with uncertain weather patterns, it can be a bit tricky when it comes to making plans, but no matter what, you’re still in the greatest city with neverending things to do. And again, you’re surrounded with people from all over the world, so you’ll never be alone when it comes to learning English and adjusting to this great city. That’s what makes New York City one of the best places to learn and live in the world!

February 13, 2019

February 14^th of every year is Valentine’s Day, which is a holiday in which people in love will take the day to celebrate their union and loving relationship. Single people will use this day to express their love and appreciation to their friends and family members. No matter your relationship status, Valentine’s Day is a time for everyone to reflect on the value that those in their loves bring to their hearts. You might see that during this time of the year, New York City turns red and pink and covered in hearts and chocolates—it’s hard NOT to feel the love around this holiday!

As a resident of New York City, you have probably noticed that not everyone here is lucky enough to have loved ones or the things that show the appreciation and love of others. From those without homes to others feeling a bit lonely, Valentine’s Day can be a tough time of year for these people. It’s common for donations and giving back behaviors to take place during Thanksgiving, but it’s also important to remember that those in need are in need all year long. So if you’re looking to spread the love this year beyond your immediate circle of friends and family and your significant other, here are a few ways you can do so this Valentine’s Day in New York City. And if you’re looking to practice your English here, I’ve included ways you can do so while giving back.

1. New York Cares

This is an organization that gathers all the ongoing events and initiatives throughout the city in which you can give back. It will help you find specific opportunities that interest you depending on your availability and location. During the month of February, staying warm is one of the primary concerns of those in need, so you can look into donating cold weather necessities, like coats, hats, boots, and gloves. Staying fed and nourished is another ongoing requirement, so you can also look into donating food to kitchens and volunteer centers. So many of these people often feel overlooked or forgotten about, especially during the times of the year when the rest of the world is caught up in their own little bubbles. So this is your chance to open your heart to those in greater need.

2. Second Chance Rescue NYC Dogs

Does your living situation allow for a furry friend? If so and if you’ve got the time and dedication to take in a dog, this is another great way to share the love this Valentine’s Day. So many of these poor animals have been abused or abandoned and need a loving home. This is where you or your friends come in! You can easily spread the word via your social channels or tell others in your school about this initiative, and you’re bound to find someone that can help this cause. The greatest thing about taking in one of these animals is the love you receive back from these four-legged pups, so it’s reciprocal! Brush up on your English training terms and before you know it, you’ll have a fully trained dog on your hands. And if you’re living situation doesn’t allow dogs, you can just as easily spread the word – awareness is half the battle!

3. The Samaritans NYC

I saved this one for last because I think this arena of attention is one in which we all need to be more educated. This prevention center focuses on mental health and battling crisis. Now more than ever, we as a society need to be better trained on mental health awareness and simply listening to those struggling and in need. This group provides emotional support for those that are suffering and need additional help, and you can become involved with this by being a volunteer. You’ll have to undergo intensive training, but once it’s complete, you’ll be more articulate about how to communicate, which of course will help your English skills as well. So many of these people that need help don’t feel that they have enough love in their heart, so this is your chance to help them fill that void. You never know just how much you’re capable of, and the same can be said of those that turn to The Samaritans; volunteering can provide mutual wholeness.

Valentine’s Day in New York City doesn’t have to be just about the loved ones in YOUR life. You can spread the love in so many other ways!

February 4, 2019

I know I’ve told you all before how the winter in New York City can be pretty brutal. The low temperatures and the trying weather conditions can really convince you to stay inside as much as possible and hibernate, and it becomes easy to ignore all the beauty that takes place outside your apartment. The shorter days also tend to make me more tired, which also means it’s harder to convince me to bundle up and head outside. But one of my New Year’s resolutions for 2019 is to appreciate this great city even more than I already do, and that means that I need to get out there more often!

So this post is to not only help keep you occupied for the month of February, but it’s also meant to encourage me to do the same exploring! So we’re in this together!

I’ve come up with a list of things to do this month in New York City that will also test your English speaking skills outside of the classroom. I can’t emphasize enough just how lucky you are to be in the Big Apple as you’re adjusting to a new language because as I’ve said many times before, this place is a melting pot, full of all kinds of other languages, ethnicities, and cultures, meaning that you’re quite literally surrounded by learning opportunities. So without further ado, here’s your list of things to do and see this February in New York City!

1. New York Fashion Week; multiple locations; February 8 – February 16

If you don’t know by now, New York City is one of the most well-known and popular fashion capitols of the world. Think about all your friends that ask you questions about the fashion and style trends in the Big Apple. The biggest style magazines are headquartered in NYC, meaning that the greatest trendsetters and fashion icons are also here during this famed week. While the main event isn’t open to the general public, there are events happening related to Fashion Week all over the city. From salons organizing special events and high-end fashion boutiques holding premiere sales and opportunities, you can surely feel like you’re one of the elite during this week. Be prepared for English speakers to ask you, “Who are you wearing?” or “Where did you get that?” this week, and this is your chance to show off your English!

2. The Westminster Kennel Club 143^rd Annual Dog Show; Piers 92/94, Madison Square Garden, February 9 – February 12

If you’re a pup fan and need a little cheering up this dreary winter season, check out the events during this exciting period of time in New York City. Because this event falls so close in the calendar to the Super Bowl and it’s a “best of the best” competition, you’ll often hear this called “the Super Bowl for dogs.” You can watch on as owners and trainers show off their furry friends for the chance to win the title. Prior to the event, practice your English by doing your research on your favorite pups so you can chat up with other dog fans while you’re there. Plus, this is a great way to meet new people, so come prepared with your best social English skills.

3. On Location Tours; all over New York City; ongoing

The weather in February will surely convince you to find activities indoors to escape the low temperatures and uncomfortable weather conditions. Since this tends to be a slower month for things to do here, I wanted to include an activity that you can take advantage of any time of the year. These tours will take you all over the city to show you where some of the most iconic television shows and movies took place. Do you have a favorite show that filmed in the Big Apple? Chances are, this group will show you spots where that show filmed! From Friends, Sex and the City, SpiderMan, Ghostbusters, and more, you can check out all the iconic spots, making you feel like part of the movie. To brush up on your English before the tour, watch a few episodes of Seinfeld or watch Men in Black to refresh your memory (and your English skills), then hop on the bus!

Listen, February is tough for all of us New Yorkers. The weather and short days keep us inside more often than out, but let’s do our best to get out there and see all that New York City has to offer—just bundle up!

November 14, 2018

Your education at New York English Academy is setting you up for incredible success as a speaker of more than one language. Because it’s also set in the amazing New York City, you’re practically getting a second education—for free! Being in New York City can teach you so many additional lessons, like how to budget in an environment that’s quite expensive, how to socialize and engage with others that have very different backgrounds than you, and of course, how to appreciate that the Big Apple is the land of incredible opportunities.

 

As you may very well know by now, thousands come to New York City to start a new life for themselves because of all the options available. As the center of life for fashion, architecture, the arts, and even literature, the city provides limitless opportunities. If you’re looking to expand your education after your time at New York English Academy with the hopes of going into the sciences, hopefully you’re considering staying in this great city to further your education. Whether you’re looking for a certificate, an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or even your PhD degree, there’s no better place to check out your options than these right here in New York City.

1. Columbia University, Upper West Side

This is probably the largest option for you depending on your interested course of study. With 123 degree programs that specialize in Mathematics and Science, you can easily discover your passion right here in New York City. Columbia is a very well-known and prestigious academic institution, so you can rest assured that you’d be receiving a paramount education. Because this school is so enormous in both size and offerings, Columbia also has a plethora of programs designed for foreign students, so be sure to look into these set-ups so you can take advantage of everything they have to offer.

2. Barnard College, Upper West Side

While this institution is a women’s college, you’ll still have a tremendous amount of program offerings to choose from in the Mathematics and Science fields. While it’s a bit smaller in comparison to other schools in the city, you’ll benefit from the smaller class structure and more intimate ratio of instructor to students. With 36 different programs to choose from, you can speak to an advisor to go over your options so you can feel your program is specially designed for you.

3. New York University, Greenwich Village

This institution, located right in the heart of the trendy Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, also offers incredible options, should you choose to concentrate in the Mathematics and Sciences fields. NYU offers 65 programs with these foci. Their continuing graduation success for both the undergraduate and graduate level maintains their stellar reputation and continues to attract students from all over the world to attend.

4. Yeshiva University, Washington Heights

Yeshiva University is a Jewish institution that offers traditional Jewish thought and studies as well as 31 diverse Mathematics and Science degree programs. While this campus is a bit of a trek at all the way up at Washington Heights, you can ensure that you can achieve a quality and premier education. With Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs available, you can easily invest your extended educational career at Yeshiva.

5. Fordham University, Upper West Side

In the foci of Mathematics and Science, this is another experience that will offer a more intimate relationship with your instructors. As a newcomer to the English language, you can rest assured that you’ll get an in-depth education for both your academic focus as well as your English usage. Since you’ll continue to be surrounded by other English speakers, you’ll have no choice but to pick up the language even more organically.

Advancing your education after New York English Academy is a wonderful decision, and if you haven’t heard this before from your current instructors, education is a phenomenal gift you can give yourself. The easiest and best step you can take next is doing some research on your own when it comes to what you want to study, then figure out the institutions that not only offer your program but have good reviews. It’s always worth it to schedule a meeting with an advisor, as it’s their job to provide prospective students information and address any questions or concerns they may have. Also, be sure to consult the financial aid department, as there are bound to be options for you as an international student as well. Best wishes on your next chapter!

October 10, 2018

Your time at the New York English Academy has probably prepared you for all sorts of things. Perhaps it’s your first time away from home, and you’re being forced to learn your own version of independence. By staying in New York City, you’ve probably also learned a completely different lifestyle than you’re used to—after all, there’s no place like the Big Apple, and everyone that moves here has to adjust on their own terms and in their own way. Another transition, and probably the most important, that you’re adjusting to is the new language. That’s why you came to this institution after all, right?

From classroom studies to real world application, my hope with this blog was to help you incorporate your learned skills into the world in which people interact with one another with the English language. You might have found that some experiences were easier than others, and part of that was probably due to your own self-imposed insecurities and intimidations. I wanted to keep reminding you that so many other people living in this great city have come from other countries as well and have learned to adapt as a bilingual citizen. New York City, as I have mentioned multiple times over the months, is a cultural melting pot full of various backgrounds and other languages. So never be afraid to ask for help or guidance.

If you’re thinking about your next move after your time with the New York English Academy is complete, you may be pondering furthering your education at a four-year university. Many students come to New York City with the hopes of pursuing a degree in the humanities. Since there is a huge focus on the arts here, like dance, music, the performing arts, and even fashion, many of the schools here have included these areas of studies in their portfolio. I’ve rounded up some of the best institutions that offer humanities programs so you can start thinking about your next move in New York City.

1. Columbia University in the City of New York, Upper West Side

While this school is a private university, I included this institution at the top of the list because of the tremendous programs it offers. With over 25 humanities programs available from Art History, French Philology, Religion, and foreign languages, you can easily enhance your collegiate study with one of the programs offered at this university. Whether you’re looking for a Certificate program or looking to advance further with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or even a Doctorate, Columbia will guarantee you a quality education in the humanities.

2. Barnard College, division of Columbia University, Upper West Side

This academic center is another great option for you if you’re considering an education in the humanities. You can choose to minor or major in the concentrations of Women’s Studies, Spanish & Latin American Cultures, Music, English, or even Dance. If you speak with an advisor, you can discuss how you can diversify your education by choosing separate minors and majors. (When I went to college, I started with a separate minor and major, but then as I went along, I chose to bump my minor to a major, so I double-majored, which only helped my qualifications when I start the job-hunting process. Your options are quite broad!)

3. Fordham College, Lincoln Center

This is another great option if you’re thinking about pursuing a degree in the humanities. With similar fields of concentration in which you can minor or major in, you can feel the freedom to really explore your options and dive into studies that you never thought possible. Did you know you can minor in Fashion Studies? How about getting a degree in Film and Television? Since this institution’s location is in one of the most fashion-forward and art-centered areas of New York City, it’s no wonder this school develops their programs to reflect this cultural hub. Might as well take advantage of it!

Education is one of the greatest gifts we can give yourselves. With a variety of financial options available depending on your level of need, you can easily entertain the thought of a certificate program, a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree, or even an advanced Doctorate. All it takes is a phone call to the admissions office to set up an appointment. With this conversation, you can ask about areas of study, the application process, timing, cost of living, etc., so you can be fully prepared if this is your next step.

September 28, 2018

October is one of my favorite times of the year, especially in New York City. Fall is in full swing, which means I can be more comfortable in my knit sweaters, enjoy seasonal coffee beverages, and embrace the changing colors of my scenery. I just overall feel more calm and relaxed – who knew the weather could do that?? I tend to take more walks in Central Park so I can enjoy the fall foliage and take tons of pictures worthy for Instagram. Of course, one of the most popular events of the month (well, maybe even the whole season) is of course Halloween, and you won’t have any trouble finding any kind of activity in relation to this holiday. Instead, I’ll focus on all the other things you can do this month in New York City so you can embrace the best month on the year.

If you’re willing to put your English skills to use this month, there are tons of ways you can put your learnings to practice in the real world. Interacting with others is the best way to test out what you’ve learned, and never forget that New York City is a huge cultural melting pot. This means don’t feel intimidated or nervous to ask others for help in translating or navigating your way around. While New York City is essentially a blip on the map, it’s still an epicenter of its own, so don’t be afraid!

1. New York Coffee Festival, October 12-14, 2018

If you need a break from the bar scene (like I do), this is a great way to learn more about one of our most prized possessions: coffee! If you’re anything like me, coffee is a necessary fuel that helps any kind of productivity and energy maintenance, and it’s an interest that I’m always willing to explore. I’ve wanted to attend this event since moving to NYC but just haven’t made it yet, but this year I’ll be there! I plan on learning about more blends and coffee-making methods, and I hope to enjoy plenty of local samples. The event will also keep you entertained with tons of street food, learning demos, and live music. Bring your friends and meet new people—practice your English by asking other event-goers about their favorite brew, what they’ve learned, or simply strike up a conversation.

2. Open House New York Weekend, October 12-14, 2018

This is one of those events that is highly regarded in New York City, as it’s a celebration for historic buildings, architectural legends, and new sites. It’s a chance for New Yorkers that have a passion for architecture to view locations and sites that are normally shut down or off-limits for the general public. Do some research before committing to this event, as some locations require a reservation. You’ll be able to practice your English social skills here, as you’ll be interacting with dozens of other passionate fans of traditional and modern buildings alike, and what’s even better is the organization’s philanthropic effort in putting on this event, so it might be helpful to bring your checkbook.

3. The Accomplice, weekends in October

This event falls in the category of interactive entertainment that seems to be all the rage now. Similar to Escape the Room, this is a theatrical experience that will take you about all parts of New York City, depending on where you’d like to explore. There are tons of options available, as you can go on scavenger hunts with friends and simultaneously see parts of the city that you have never explored before. While this event can be on the pricier side, the whole experience lasts a little over 3 hours, and the reviews prove that it’s worth every penny. You can practice your English comprehension by interacting with the improv actors and meeting other excited event-goers. Before you know it, you’ll be looking up other ticket availabilities for the next show.

There are so many amazing things to do in New York City, and October is one of the best (and last of the year) to enjoy all kinds of activities outdoors. You can watch the leaves change color, feel comfortable with warm days and cool nights, and give your seasonal English skills some practice. Grab some of your friends and start exploring the city before it gets too cold and you start to feel the urge to hibernate!

August 29, 2018

September is one of my favorite months of the year, no matter where I’m at. The heavy heat of the summer finally breaks, and there’s a comfortable breeze that seems to just relax me. I find that I spend a lot more time outdoors this month instead of couping myself indoors with air conditioning, so get ready for all the activities that New York City has to offer in September. Bring a jacket, since the weather is transitioning this month from lingering summer heat with cool autumn wind.

If you don’t know by now from previous posts, I’m a big proponent of practicing your English skills with those around you. New York City is one of the biggest cultural melting pots in the world, so it’s going to be incredibly easy to find those similar to you all around, and New Yorkers are always willing to help someone out, whether it’s helping with directions, suggesting places to go, or even aiding in reading English. Don’t be shy—you’re in the best place to be to put your English skills to use!

1. 29Rooms, Thursday, September 6 – Sunday, September 9 and Thursday, September 13 – Sunday, September 16, Brooklyn

If you’re into fashion at all, you know that September in New York City is quite an exciting time. The magazines are covered with the best in the best, designers push out their newest collections, and celebrities and models are just a bit easier to spot this time of year. This event is a huge one, and luckily, it’s a chance for tons of artists, brands, and even celebrities to showcase their seasonal favorites. Tickets are pretty reasonable, starting at $39 for general admission. Grab all your fashion-forward friends and head down to this Instagrammable location. You might learn a few new English words that have been put into hashtags—yet another way to practice your English via social media.

2. Vendy Awards, Saturday, September 22, Governer’s Island

I may be a bit biased about this event, as I went last year to help with the event, and even then it was still a blast. This occasion celebrates all the best street food (and drinks) that New York City has to offer with limitless sampling opportunities. From Jamaican and Indonesian food to cocktails and desserts, you’ll be sure to get all your taste buds satisfied. After a quick and scenic ferry ride from lower Manhattan, you can interact with tons of other event-goers. Be sure to ask them where they got that beer or their favorite truck so far so you can put your English skills to use. What’s even better is that since so many of the trucks are multi-cultural, this is your chance to perhaps help others with their English as well!

3. Queens County Fair, Saturday, September 22 – Sunday, September 23, Floral Park

As if I haven’t made it clear enough, fall is hands-down my favorite season of the year, so fall festivals just make the season even better. From hayrides to pie eating contests to live music, this annual fair has it all to fulfill your all your autumn-kickoff interests. The location is a bit out of the city, but it’s totally worth the trip to get your nature fix. Practice your English skills by interacting with other fair-goers and embrace your inner nature fan!

4. Free Summer Movies, all September, all NYC boroughs

One of my absolute favorite things to do in New York City is catch free movies in some of the coolest parks in the main boroughs. Doing this not only allows me to revisit some of my favorite movies, but it’s so amazing to be able to do so in some of the most iconic parks. This is a great activity (and free!) to do with friends or even for date night. And if you’re practicing your English, watching American movies is an easy (and quite mindless) way to put your skills to use.

September is the unofficial kick-off to fall, so pack up your swimsuits and unpack your light jackets – the lighter weather is such a treat in New York City after so many months of heavy heat. If you’re new to the English language, all these activities will put your skills to use by allowing you to interact with others while still having a blast in the best city in the world. Next month, get ready for even more adventures!

August 15, 2018

When I moved to New York City, I thought one of the luxuries I’d be sacrificing was a cool place to swim on the hot days. I had access to parents’ inground pool, and the gym that I belonged to had a pool that I could use to practice my laps or just to chill down after a long workout. Because the Big Apple doesn’t have a lot of free space to devote to for inground pools, you’d think it’d be difficult to find a public place to cool off at, but with this quick list below, you can find relief from the August heat without having to drop serious cash or travel for miles just to get to a pool.

For those of you that are practicing your English skills, this is a great way to put your conversation habits to use. Depending on the size and options of the pool that you go to, you can ask people how else they’re keeping cool, if they can recommend some other local pools, or what else they do to stay busy in the summer in New York City. Since everyone else in the city limits are doing everything they can to stay cool, you’ll be in great company!

1. Astoria Pool, Astoria

When it comes to size and availability, this is the best option for you. This pool is seriously HUGE, and while there are bound to be tons of people there, you’ll still be able to cool off and enjoy the perks of a pool in the city. Another cool detail about this pool is its location within the larger Astoria Park, which includes multiple playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, and walking trails. This way, you can make a whole day at the park with your friends, which of course, lends even more opportunities for you to practice your English.

2. Hamilton Fish Pool, Lower East Side

If you prefer to stay in Manhattan, this public pool is your best option. Located conveniently off the FDR Drive, you and your friends can enjoy this Olympic-sized pool. Pack your sunscreen and towel and create some fun English-practice games while in the water to make your learning fun. Plus, when you’re having fun, it won’t feel like you’re practicing!

3. McCarren Park Pool, Greenpoint

If you live in Brooklyn and want to stay somewhat close to home, check out this huge pool in Greenpoint. This pool is a popular destination for families and adults alike, so you can rest assured that you’re surrounded by people that are looking to have fun and still feel cool. Another advantage to this location is the surplus of chairs and space to spread out your towels for some sunbathing. An insider tip: This is a popular destination, so either come early or pick your days strategically!

4. John Jay Pool, Upper East Side

I’m biased with my pick on this one simply because it’s in my neighborhood and tends to attract the locals in Yorkville and the Upper East Side. A bit smaller than the rest of the pools listed here, this location is a bit more intimate as families come to bring their kids for a quick dip. If you’re looking for more of a quite experience, check out this spot. My favorite aspect of this pool is that it’s lined with trees so it makes it feel even more like a private experience!

5. Hotel rooftops, call around

If you want to avoid the free public pools and don’t mind paying a small fee (it varies depending on the hotel), contact a few hotels in the neighborhood you’re interested in to see how they allow non-guests to use their facilities. There tends to be a few rules and regulations with these destinations since they’re a popular destination, but in my experience, it can be seriously worth it to be on a rooftop in New York City and see all the views while you’re cooling off in a pool. And of course, conversing with the hotel manager is a great way to practice your formal English skills!

It’s no doubt that August is tough in New York City. Our winters are brutal, and so are our summers! Don’t fret though—the Big Apple has plenty of options when it comes to ways of keeping cool. From public pools to private rooftop pools, you can’t go wrong! Stay cool out there!