Your Best Tool for Abroad & Learning English

March 15, 2022

The saying for March weather is “In like a lion, out like a lamb” – at the start of the month, the weather is completely unpredictable as spring tries to make its way into our lives. One day it could be windy, wet, and blustery, and the next day, we could be taking walks with our sunnies on without a care in the world. But by the time we reach the final week in March, we can feel pretty confident that we can hang up our winter coats for good. This can make the month of March feel a bit goofy when trying to make plans, but luckily, if you’re in New York City this month, you’ll have plenty of options!

One of the other benefits to living in the Big Apple is that you’re never short of diversity or being surrounded by people speaking various languages – this means if you’re trying to hone in on your English skills, you’re in the best place to put your skills to use. Not only are people patient with language barriers, but they’ll also be willing to help you if you need a little push. That said, I wanted to highlight activities that will be supportive of your English skills AND keep you entertained! Happy Lion Month, everyone!

1. New York Travel & Adventure Show, Hell’s Kitchen

This is actually an activity that I’m bookmarking for myself as well. As we near the two-year anniversary of COVID, it’s amazing to think how much we may have put on hold. I haven’t seen many of my loved ones, I’ve had to cancel trips and activities, and traveling now just seems like a luxury that’s far from reality now. Not only will tons of experts be there to share tips and tricks, but you’ll learn about the new age of travel thanks to the pandemic. If you’re like me, you’re both eager and anxious to get back on planes and trains, so if you need a bit more information before making any big decisions, I recommend checking this event out. Plus, you’ll walk away with plenty of swag (in English and tons of other languages), so this is the place to connect with others that are just as well-traveled and skilled in multiple languages as you are.

2. Sherlock Holmes in 221 Objects, Upper East Side

Calling all book lovers! This brand new exhibition will be a dream come true for anyone that grew up reading Sherlock Holmes and all the adventures that came along with it. Curated from Sir Conan Doyle’s belongings, you’ll become immersed in all things Sherlock Holmes, making you feel like you’ve been transported back into time. This will be running until April, so you have some time, but be sure to add this site to your list so you can check off all the amazing things related to this literary icon. With so many writings, you’ll easily brush up on your English reading skills, some of which is actually handwritten from the author himself! Don’t forget your pipe!

3. Free museum nights at MoMA

Um, hello? Did you know about this? Starting March 4^th, every first Friday of every month, this iconic destination is offering free admission to NYC residents from 4 to 8pm. If you’re a bit tight on funds or just looking to take advantage of an activity without breaking the bank, this is the activity for you. As you can bet, word about this awesome event will get out, so be sure to hit up the first month’s opening before too many people hear about this. I know COVID feels like it’s on its way out, but just be mindful about how many people are there and bring your mask just in case. Grab your friends, collect your pamphlets, and enjoy the second-floor café when you’re ready to give your feet a break.

It’s been a long two years since we started adjusting to a completely new way of life. Sometimes it’s hard to believe we’re still in this reality. As we start to look ahead at a possible “normal” life in the coming months, don’t forget to cater to your mental health. Keep checking in on yourself and your loved ones because adjustment anxiety is real. Let’s come out of this whole experience as better versions of ourselves and better people to the ones around us. Let’s use COVID as a lesson to be better!

February 28, 2022

The past two years have been tough on all of us – I haven’t met one person that hasn’t been affected in some way. From transitioning to working from home full-time to figuring out vaccine schedules and learning more about mental health needs to experiencing polarizing political conversations, we’ve endured so much in the past two years. It can be tough trying to figure out how we’re going to make it through this pandemic without scars.

It seems like every segment of this pandemic brings us something new, as it’s impacted almost every aspect of our lives. We’ve witnessed an incredibly volatile presidential election and transfer of power; we’ve watched the heavy debate around vaccines; we’ve seen our economy fluctuate; we’ve said goodbye to thousands of people. It’s hard to imagine a world post-pandemic sometimes because of how disruptive it’s been to our lives.

I don’t have all the answers, but I’m happy to share some of my own tricks and hacks as a New York City resident. Everyone is different and has personal levels of pandemic practice, so please take my recommendations with a grain of salt, and feel free to personalize these ideas as you see fit and as they pertain to your own individual practices.

1. Take advantage of talk therapy

I recognize that I’m incredibly lucky that my talk therapy is covered by my insurance. It’s incredibly helpful that I have someone to talk to on a weekly basis (it’s virtual, too!) – sometimes we chat about how the pandemic is affecting me, while some weeks the topic doesn’t come up at all. I see my weekly therapy appointments as regular maintenance. There are some months in my life when I feel in control and steady – it’s nice to talk with my therapist during these times because she can see me when I’m confident and in a good place. There are other weeks when I struggle, either with work, relationships, money, or even just my energy levels. These weekly check-ins help stabilize my moods, force me to reflect on what I can do better, and to identify areas that I need to work on. I’ve been able to overcome a lot of barriers and hurdles in my life from simply going to therapy once a week. I understand it’s not for everyone, and I also recognize that I’m lucky to have access to this kind of mental healthcare, but I’ll recommend this practice to anyone that is looking to improve themselves.

2. Helpful to think ahead

Sometimes it seems like we’ve been frozen in time, hasn’t it? So many of my days seem to blur together, and it so often feels like every day is the same. Beyond family visits, I haven’t planned anything for myself in two years. It feels too risky to book a vacation, only to get excited about it then have to cancel due to another variant. This has had me in a weird, dark place as I think about my future. Will we be doing this two years from now? Will all my days be identical a year from now? This kind of repetition has given me a lot of anxiety and stress, so I’ve tried to look for a solution that can help with this kind of gloom. Instead of planning for trips or vacation, I set personal goals for myself instead. Because I’m not spending as much money on travel, dinners, or events with my friends, I’ve been able to save a lot of money the past two years. With that realization, I’ve started to create monthly goals for myself, most of which are financially related. When I paid off my student loans last year, thanks to the interest pause and saving so much money, that gave me the idea to keep thinking ahead. I now have a goal that I want to reach for my 401K, a figure I want to hit in my savings account, and I’m starting to put aside some money for a major vacation once this is all over and done with (whenever that is!). Having these goals gives me something to work towards AND something to look forward to.

It’s important to remind yourself that you’re not alone – we’re ALL going through this time together. We all have different and unique struggles, so check in with your loved ones, but also be sure to check in with yourself. Make sure you’re giving yourself what you need!

February 15, 2022

Yikes, I forget how tough February can be in New York City. The days can chill you to your bones, and this is the time of year I feel a bit sick of the dreary days. While I love staying inside and being cozy during this time of year, I also start to feel a bit antsy. I start to crave longer days, warmer temps, and higher energy. It’s tough trying to figure out what my options are when we’re still trying to figure out this pandemic stuff, so I figured I’d share with you some easy ideas that will still keep you entertained and safe at the same time. The weather is always a hit-or-miss factor in deciding what you want to do, but I’ve come up with a few interesting ideas that can keep your mood up and without breaking your wallet.

1. Ice Skating – Central Park, Bryant Park, Rockefeller Center

I know this is pretty standard and expected when you think about New York City in the winter, but it’s kind of a perfect solution. Not only does this activity get you outside in the fresh air, but it’ll get your body moving with fun exercise. Whether you’ve got your own skates or need to rent, these parks will have you covered no matter your skill level. Since we’re still in a pandemic, the outdoor setting will keep you safe. (I still recommend bringing and wearing a mask, vaccinated or not.) You’ll also be able to meet tons of new people while you’re practicing your ice skills, so be sure to bring your best English talents so you can share and trade tricks with your new friends. Bonus: these parks are surrounded with plenty of amazing restaurants so you can warm up and recharge no matter where you decide to go.

2. Broadway

This is an activity that I’ll flag as “use caution.” Because this particular option is indoors and you’ll be surrounded by dozens of people, be sure to check your theater’s rules for vaccinations and masks. Depending on your status, you’ll need to check out their guidelines before going. As Broadway starts to ramp up again in as we continue to sift through the pandemic, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of these shows, just in case another strict lockdown is on our horizon. If you’re looking to get your English skills some practice, spend some time with the Playbill before the show, and do your best to translate the spoken English on stage in your head. After the show, grab dinner with your friends and share your favorite parts – in English!

3. Hit the spa

Okay, so this activity isn’t completely for just February, but I wanted to include this because I’m realizing just how important self-care is these days. It’s been a tough two years in New York City, thanks to the pandemic. I’ve spent more time indoors these past 24 months than I have probably my whole life. I’ll admit that I don’t work out as much, I don’t eat the best foods, and I’m definitely not drinking enough water. It’s hard to take care of ourselves when the world is so uncertain these days. So to ensure that I’m treating myself from time to time, I take myself out for a massage about once a month. Not only does it give me something to look forward to, but it physically helps me relieve built-up tension from stress. If a spa isn’t your thing, figure out what will help you “reset.” Maybe it’s a library day, or perhaps it’s a night you treat yourself to your favorite dinner. Either way, it’s so crucial to ensure you’re taking care of your well-being. This could be something you do independently or with friends so you can keep your mood positive and your outlook optimistic.

February is a tough month overall – the days are short and cold, and it can be tough to be optimistic for warmer days ahead. I try to beat my seasonal sadness by getting out of my apartment for walks and Vitamin D, I chat with family and friends as much as I can, and I make sure my schedule has enough things to look forward to – I recommend doing something similar and finding things that make you happy, active, and entertained. We’ve still got some time working through this pandemic, but in the meantime, make sure you’re still tending to your mental and emotional health.

January 30, 2022

The premise of a new year always entails a fresh start, a new perspective, a new you. This can be a lot of pressure! What if you’re exhausted and can’t possibly fit another thing on your list? What if you’re pretty content with how things are? What if there’s still an ongoing pandemic that makes your planning a bit complicated?

I recently discovered a list of things that I wanted to accomplish in 2020. This was, of course, prior to COVID being in our vocabulary, so I had things like “go on a real vacation” and “meet 10 new people” on my list. I couldn’t help but laugh when I read some of those ideas, as there was no way I could have accomplished those goals, thanks to the pandemic. On one hand, it felt like I was relieved from the pressure to do all those things, and on the other hand, it made me kind of bummed out. How are we supposed to better ourselves, improve ourselves, if we’re being limited of our own capabilities?

I sat down the other day to make a list similar to the one above, as I was thinking about the year ahead and imagining what I might encounter in 2022. Since we’re all somewhat used to the pandemic and this “new normal,” I know now that my list will have to consider the impact of COVID. While I’m not back in the office on a full-time basis, I know that I can go in a few days a week if I want to. While I know that riding a plane or going on a cruise is not ideal, I know that as long as I’m safe and maintain my vaccinations and testing, I can still live my life.

It’s almost as if I made my list for 2022 with built-in buffers. I added in “travel,” but kept it vague because no one really knows what that sector will look like in 2022. I included “more socialization” – understandably, I won’t be attending any parties soon, but I want to deepen the relationships that I already have and make them more meaningful. Through ongoing therapy and processes that improve my own soul, I strive to use this increased alone time to work on myself, to be a better family member, friend, and person within my community.

COVID took a lot from us. But it’s also important to remember that COVID taught us a lot, too. I’m thankful and lucky that I didn’t lose a loved one to COVID, and I’m lucky that I was able to receive all 3 doses of the vaccine. I’ve learned to be in the moment more, and I’ve learned to cherish the relationships that I have. I’ve also listened to myself more, which has helped me understand what makes me, me. With all this in mind, I was able to create the most personalized list of goals that I’ve ever created. Each person’s will be unique, but I wanted to share a few of my own bullets and how I plan on achieving them this next year.

• Get savings account to x amount

A good rule of thumb is to have 3x the amount of one month’s living expenses in your savings. This can be challenging for anyone, but I’m up for the challenge. A few quick mathematical notes, and I know what I need to do to reach that goal. It also helped to break it down monthly so it’s easier to grasp the logistics.

• Treat myself to one solo vacation

My family lives all over the country, so I’ve found that the past couple of years, I use my vacation days for those family trips. Those trips are wonderful, don’t get me wrong, but I promised myself that I would take myself on one trip by myself this year. It could be somewhere as close to an hour away for a weekend or to another country for a week. No matter what I decide, I want to treat MYSELF for all the hard work I’ve put in.

• Pick up journaling again

This is an interesting one, as I used to be an avid journal-er. I’d write almost every single night, and it was part of my routine. It’s been at least ten years since I had a journal, and I miss the alone moments when I would reflect, vent, cry, celebrate, and collect all in one sitting. Thanks to therapy and all the alone time the past two years, I want to rebirth this habit and find some time in each day for reflection and self-learning.

January 15, 2022

New year, new you, right? There’s something about the beginning of January that gives me a jolt of inspiration, a moment of reflection to admire how far I’ve come and where I’d still like to go. I’m not big on New Year’s Resolutions, but I do try to make a list of things I want to accomplish in the near year. Sometimes they’re big (one year I had a goal of reading 20 books), and sometimes they’re small (one year I strived to build a new habit of working on my posture). No matter what you have set in store for 2022, chances are you’re a little uneasy given the uncertainty of the next year, thanks to this ongoing pandemic.

Whether you’re looking to work on your resolution list or simply hoping to make the most of the first month of 2022 while in the Big Apple, I’m confident that you’ll find a way to make it all happen. New York City is certainly not the same place it was two years ago, but my love for the city is unwavering. I feel we’re through the worst of it (I’m really hoping), so I’ve been testing the waters here and there to get back into the swing of things – I’ve been taking the subway more often, trying to get used to larger gatherings while still practicing social distancing, and I’ve also been working on my in-person social skills (as an awkward person to begin with, this is an area that really needs my attention in the new year!).

Either way, here are a few things you can do this January in New York City, whether you have resolutions, an interest in becoming more active, or just simply hoping to use your English skills in real life. Don’t forget your winter jacket, your mask, and as always, some hand sanitizer!

1. Winter Market, Bryant Park

I may have written about this experience in the past, but I want to ensure that this falls on your list because it’s one of the coolest winter experiences in the city. All sorts of shops and eateries gather their best inventory for window shoppers as they sip their hot chocolate and unwind from a hectic holiday season. With so many unique products and services available at this market, you’ll find out about some of the coolest independent shops in the area and support small businesses at the same time. Since you’ll be interacting with dozens of people as you shop around, you’ll be putting your conversational skills to use, and if you choose to follow and support these businesses on your social media feeds, you’ll also put your reading and writing English skills to use at the same time! You can also rest easy since this market is held outdoors, as COVID continues to remind us of its ongoing presence.

2. Brooklyn Bridge

So this is a New York City staple, obviously, but I want to ensure that my guiding includes destinations that will keep you outside yet warm enough to enjoy it. Since you’ll be walking a ton while visiting this spot, you’ll stay warm but also safe. The view on this bridge never gets old – I’ve been a few times, as I bring visitors to this spot so they can see the bridge in person and experience the incredible views themselves. Not only will you get your new year exercise in, but you’ll be getting fresh air and views that are indescribable. You can put your English social speaking skills to use when you ask strangers to take your photo – don’t forget to offer the favor back to them in English!

3. Restaurant Week, January 18 – February 13

This is another rotating event, as restaurant week happens twice a year (and obviously lasts for more than a week). This is the perfect opportunity to give that new restaurant a try or explore something outside of your traditional visits. Not only will you benefit from reduced prices, but you’ll expand your palette and add more unique cuisines to your list. The added benefit is that outdoor dining seems to continue to be popular amongst us New Yorkers, so if you prefer to eat your meals outside instead of inside (thanks, COVID), you’ll be able to still benefit from this lasting feature. With written menus, spoken orders, and ongoing conversations, your English skills will be tested and easily used throughout your evening, so check out the participation list in your borough, and start making those reservations!

December 30, 2021

New York City in December is one of my favorite times here. There’s something in the air that feels (and even smells) magical, and maybe that’s my inner child, but either way, I love taking the long way home in December. I’ll walk wherever I can as often as I can so I can take in all the holiday decorations, smell the early winter air, and appreciate the jovial feelings in the air from both locals and tourists alike. Sure, I’ll avoid heavily trafficked areas this month, like the Rockefeller Tree or Bryant Park, but the whole city is ready for the holiday season, so even if you want to avoid the denser areas, you’ll still feel like you’re in the most magical place on earth.

Whether you’ve been here for a while or pretty new to the Big Apple, there are quite a few ways to enjoy New York City in December, even if you’re trying to put your English skills to use. As I’ve said before, one of the major things that makes New York City so special is that this area is a gigantic melting pot – people from all over the world live here, and you’ll be surprised to hear all the various languages that are spoken all over the five major boroughs. Because of this, if you ever need any help or guidance, you’re bound to find someone that can help you.

So, if you’re looking to keep your English skills sharp this December while you’re walking in the New York City winter wonderland, check these options out below.

• New York Botanical Garden Glow

If you can manage getting up to the Bronx this month, it’ll be worth your travels to check out this outdoor event. Only in its second year, this light festival will not only keep you safe since you’re outdoors, but it’ll put you into the holiday mood. With plenty of photo opportunities, you and your friends will have memories to last years to come. If you need help navigating or with translation, be sure to check in with your friends to see if they can help OR be sure your translation app on your phone is ready to go so you can get the answers you need right away. Don’t forget to dress for the chilly night temperatures!

• Urbanspace Union Square Holiday Market

I’m personally really excited for this one because it didn’t operate last year due to COVID, so you can bet that this year, the activation is going to be better than ever before. Keep this in mind as you’re planning your day here, as you can be sure to expect lots of people eager to get their market shopping done since last year was a bust. I recommend checking out the map and vendor list so you can set up an action plan, including specific “routes” to take while you’re at the market so you can hit the stands you want to hit first and then leisurely stroll once you have your targets done. This is a GREAT opportunity to practice your English back-and-forth with various vendors, so get ready to chat with some locals!

• The Greens Winter Cabins at Pier 17

I might have written about this installation over the summer, but I never got around to trying this myself! When COVID hit, places like this tried their hand at catering to the guidelines but not alienating peoples’ need to socialize, and it worked! So now they’re converting their summer pods into winter “globes” so that you and your pals can stay warm but still socially distanced from others around you. This is super trendy, so I highly recommend you contact the organizers so you can reserve your spot with enough time and without breaking the bank. Pack your activities, extra socks, and don’t forget the games – this is the perfect opportunity to practice your English social skills with one another! You’ll definitely want to Instagram your experience too, so start brainstorming those hashtags!

December is not a month with a shortage of things to do in New York City. All you’ll need to do is keep an open mind, dress with layers, and always be conscientious about staying safe and protected since we’re still trying to get through this pandemic. You’ll have so many options to stay entertained and to put what you’ve learned in your English classes to use in real life that you won’t even have to think about what you’re going to say next!

December 15, 2021

To me, December is one of the most unusual months in New York City. It seems like the whole month is out of schedule – I’ve found that traffic volume is completely unpredictable, attitudes are hit-or-miss, and the weather can make you either really festive or incredibly cranky and impatient. Despite all of that, however, I enjoy this month greatly for a variety of reasons.

For me, my work schedule becomes a bit lighter, as my coworkers are all staggering their vacation times, and people are starting to get into the holiday and time-off mindsets. Getting around town is unusual because I find that people are keeping non-typical schedules due to special holiday events, gatherings, and even traveling out of town. December is certainly a cold month, but it can still surprise you with out-of-season temperatures. It can be snowy and bitter one week, warm the next, then back to harsh and windy again. All of these unusual characteristics make December an exciting one, and I can’t help but feel like a little kid again because nothing seems normal this month.

So here are a few tried-and-true suggestions that I can offer you to help you get through this upcoming month, and as we’re still navigating elements of the pandemic, I’ll ensure that these tips will be relevant for this time as well.

• Coordinate with your social groups early

Everybody celebrates different holidays, and some travel while others stay local. If you’re looking to be social this month or hold some kind of festive gathering, the earlier you can plan, the better. Please also keep in mind that we’re still doing what we can to social distance and be mindful of health safety, so it’s a good idea to know who is vaccinated as well as to understand peoples’ levels of comfort when around other people. People tend to plan travel and social obligations in advance, so it’s a good idea to do the same if you’re hoping to have a holiday social gathering yourself.

• Wear and where

December in New York City in the time of a pandemic calls for a lot of questions that we may not have had to ask in years past. While indoor dining is back, some people may not be comfortable, and since outdoor dining continues to be a reliable addendum, you’ll need to consider these factors when deciding what and where to go. Of course, winter attire is also of high consideration, thanks to the rigid temperatures, considerations for public transportation, and knowing how to stay comfortable. I will continue to urge you to be connected with your weather forecast app, as I’ve found this will tell me what I need to wear, how long I should stay out, and even how to get there (listen, if it’s snowing, I’ll skip my heels).

• Expand your thoughts for others

No matter your religion or the primary holiday you celebrate in December (if any), one of the main ideas of the season is consideration and gratuity for others. This is always a good time to remind yourself others may be lack in blessings, whether it’s employment, local family, extra finances, or even a positive mindset. While this time of year is wonderful to celebrate the love and blessings in your life, it’s also an opportune moment to remember those that may not have those same blessings. Do what you can to give back, whether it’s your time through volunteering, extra food, clothing, or money through donations, or even just extra love to your close ones – it’s never a poor time to think of others that may be less fortunate.

There’s no doubt that it’s been a tough two years, thanks to the pandemic. December is a time for us to reflect on what we learned, what our blessings are, and what we can do differently in the future.

As I look ahead to the next year, I’m hoping to be in contact with my friends and family, both locally and far away, more often. Because of COVID, I’ve been able to spend more time with myself, working on my short-term and long-term goals. I’ve picked up new hobbies and had the opportunity to experiment with different habits and schedules. I’m on a never-ending search to better myself, and as I face another December in New York City, I’m more hopeful for the future than I have been in the past.

November 30, 2021

It’s pretty common for people to opt for inside activities as opposed to outdoor when the days get shorter and the temps get lower. I’m as guilty of this as the next person! The thought of layering up and bracing the wind, brisk temperatures, and other elements, is enough to convince to just say “eh, not today” and stay home where it’s warm and cozy.

For this very human reason, it’s just as common for most people to put on a few extra pounds once the winter months start to set in. Staying active outdoors is more difficult to do, as sports clubs tend to shut down, parks close earlier, and it’s often just too cold to enjoy outdoor entertainment. Plus, peoples’ schedules start to become more packed with holiday planning and family travel, which means there’s less time to hit the gym or sign up for those workout classes.

Especially after the first winter season of the pandemic, we’ve all gotten creative with how we can stay active this winter season, even if health safety is still one of our primary concerns. I haven’t had a gym membership since 2020, and while I do miss some of the elements of physically going in-person, I don’t miss the commute, the cost, or even having to work out in front of other people. I’ve learned to get creative with my fitness with the unique elements I have in my back pocket – or my backyard! Here are just a few ideas that you can take and adapt as it fits your own needs.

• Stairs are your friend

Any other day, I typically hate the stairs, but now that we’re all getting creative with our workout plans, I’m realizing just how great of a basic tool these simple things are. Since I’m not commuting as much and climbing in and out of subway stations, I’ve decided to use the stairs in my apartment building as much as possible. Our building has an elevator, but if I’m not in a rush, I’ll use them to whiz down to grab my mail or take my time climbing them after running errands. It’s the perfect way to keep my heartrate up, and it’s also a decent reminder of how in-shape or out-of-shape I am. (These reminders are sometimes awful, aren’t they?) Plus, because of the elevator, not a lot of people use the stairs, so I feel like it’s a guaranteed private workout, which makes the whole concept even easier to digest.

• Squeeze in “invisible” workouts

I made this up myself ever since I started working from home full-time and wasn’t going to the gym anymore. I started to notice that I was getting a bit “softer” around the middle and wanted to do something about it. Without establishing a disciplined workout routine at home, I pulled out some free weights, my yoga mat, and a few resistance bands. By keeping them out and within eyesight, I’d pull them out do some random workouts in between meetings. Instead of walking to my kitchen to get coffee, I lunge-walked. While watching TV, I’d workout my arms a bit so I wasn’t mentally focused on just the workout or the TV. This a great way to integrate some fitness into your day without the need of carving out designated time for it, which requires an entirely different level of discipline and dedication.

• Take your walks

I know this one is super cliché and overdone, but I can’t express how much this simple activity helped me navigate the pandemic and clear my head. There were some days when I wouldn’t leave my apartment at all, and I began to go stir crazy. I’d go on a walk, and suddenly, the fresh air would do wonders for my head (both physically and mentally), and moving my body, even just for a half hour, made me feel refreshed, energized, and calm. And bonus: while on these walks, I got to see so many happy puppies, enjoying their own walks, too! Try taking a different route every day to keep your scenery fresh, and take note of all the new restaurants you see popping up along the way.

November unofficially marks the kick-off to winter – if you’re looking to stay active while we’re still navigating the pandemic and as the temperatures sink, listen to your body. It’ll tell you what it needs, what it likes, and how to keep it active. You’ll be feeling better in no time!

November 15, 2021

November really starts to bring in the cold front here in New York City. The days get shorter, the sun goes down earlier and earlier, and we close our windows tighter to make room for the inevitable change to turning on our heat. If you’re a new New Yorker or a veteran, you know that being outdoors is a necessity if you want to live here. Since most of us don’t have a garage here in the city, we spend a lot of time walking to our destinations or waiting outside for the bus to come. This means that you’ll be pulling up the forecast a lot more as a New Yorker compared to any other civilian in the country. You know to dress in layers because that 20-minute walk outside in the cold morning to the subway means that you’ll be sweating by the time you get underground. And maybe the subway car doesn’t have heat. Or maybe the subway car has heat but it’s packed, making the car feel like a sweatbox.

So while it make be below freezing outside, New Yorkers will go through various phases of “I’m freezing” to “oh man, I’m sweating through my scarf” in the span of just one commute. It’s annoying and sometimes it makes me wonder why I live here, but at the same time, I love it. Of course I do, right?

If you’re adapting to your English skills, a lot of these tips will help you as you navigate the beginning of the very long winter season in New York City.

• Do your research

Are you planning an outdoor activity? Obviously get a very clear sense of what the forecast entails and plan accordingly. As an example, my feet get cold at almost any temperature, so I’m always layering several pairs of socks if I’m going to be outside for an extended period of time. Will the event retreat indoors? Dress with layers. I can’t stress this enough. Undershirt, shirt, sweater, scarf, coat – you’ll be surprised how often you get hot in the winter while out and about in New York City. So plan ahead! For those of you practicing your English, check your social feeds to see what others are saying about the weather. Ask your friends to join you on your winter fun excursion so you can put your English speaking skills to use.

• Safety and health first

So this feels obvious, but we’re still in the middle of a public health crisis. Whether you’re vaccinated or not, it’s still important that you take care of yourself, use caution, and listen to your body. As we get closer to flu and cold season, mixed in with ongoing COVID diagnoses, now is not the time to take any chances. Get tested regularly, drink plenty of fluids, continue washing your hands, and always have a mask with you. We still want to keep having fun this winter season, and getting sick will only drag that fun down. If you’re new to a restaurant or bar, pull up their site to find out how they’re managing their property throughout the pandemic to put your mind at ease and to ensure that you’re going to safe destinations. Don’t forget to pull out your English words to help coordinate these events so you can feel more comfortable as an English speaker.

• Watch your device usage

As winter begins this season, we’ll be using a lot of our gas and electricity, which can equate to more possibility of fire. I realize this is extreme, but it’s important to pay attention to. I’m always very mindful about what I leave plugged in, how tightly my windows are closed (so my heat isn’t disappearing), and that I don’t leave the stove or my burners on. Chances of fire are, of course, year round, but I just tend to be a little extra cautious this time of year. I become reacquainted with my building’s fire evacuation plan and ensure that I have all the emergency numbers programmed into my phone. Winter can be deadly for everyone, so it’s extra important to stay cautious this season.

Winter is not exactly my favorite time of the year in New York City, but it can be magical if you’re careful and attentive. Keep practicing your English so you can navigate any kind of winter-related emergency, but don’t forget to have fun! If you’re warm, safe, and healthy, the Big Apple is wonderful this time of year.

October 30, 2021

The Halloween holiday is one of the most celebrated days of the whole year – people of all ages dress up at all lengths, watch scary movies, and make memories with their loved ones for years to come. While the holiday itself is entirely for fun, it’s important to keep a few things in mind this particular season, as we’re still navigating a world with COVID. Halloween can also be a time of increased crime, due to the literal disguises that people wear and many people leaving their homes to celebrate at different locations.

Even though we all celebrate Halloween a little differently, I rounded up some best practices for this year so that you and your friends can have as much fun as possible while also staying safe and secure.

1. A Halloween mask does not count as an actual facemask

We’ve seen it: many people are against the mask mandate. But I’m thankful that I live in a city that doesn’t seem to have much of a problem with the rules in place. And even though I’m vaccinated and still follow mask protocols, I’m choosing to still keep my Halloween celebration small. I anticipate that a lot of people will treat the Halloween weekend as a “free pass” from wearing a mask, and not only do I NOT want to take the risk of being around those people, I also just don’t want to be around for the inevitable arguments that will come about as a result. So I recommend keeping your celebrations small and with people that you know.

2. Keep your wits

Halloween is another notorious night for partying. Whether you partake in alcohol consumption or not, it’s inevitable that people get a little loose for the special day. Because of this knowledge, if I decide to go out to celebrate Halloween, I keep a close eye on how much I’m drinking (as well as my friends) – as I mentioned above, this holiday brings out all kinds of walks of life, and I don’t want to take any chances this year. I highly recommend that you and your friends agree on a drink limit or a designated end time so that you all stay safe.

3. Make plans and stick with them

With Halloween, it’s very easy to lose track of time or even your friends. Because it’s one of those “anything goes” kinds of holidays, it can be very easy to make mistakes. I recommend huddling with your friends before the big night out and agreeing on the places you go to, a communication plan if you happen to “lose” a member of your party, and even how to get home. This is a great strategy to follow on ANY night out, but again, expect larger crowds this Halloween weekend – that can make losing track of your friends a bigger reality. There’s nothing wrong with being as prepared as possible!

4. Have fun!

Here’s the thing: as New Yorkers, we’ve really been through it the past two years. From the pandemic forcing us into lockdown, to a contentious election season, to several natural disasters, and to multiple social changes – it’s safe to say that we’ve been feeling a little tense lately. It’s only natural that you and your friends look forward to a night out of having fun, making memories, and doing something a little out of the ordinary. It’s crucial that you have fun – not just for your mental health but for the mental health of your friends, as well. The bonus is…whether you decide to keep it light with a small gathering at your apartment or if you’re planning on bar hopping, you’ll be supporting the economy, when it needs it the most. So have your friends bring snacks, décor, or even party favors to bring the party to life, and don’t forget to tip the bartenders if you decide to have a night out in the city!

Halloween is a fun time for all ages – not just for the little kids in our lives! If you plan on celebrating the holiday in one way or another this year, I just urge you to be smart, careful, and considerate. Don’t forget your ID and your vaccine card – depending on your costume, you might be difficult to recognize so you’ll need all forms of backup ID as possible! Bring a portable phone charger, your mask, maybe some hand sanitizer, and you should be good to go. Don’t forget to have fun!