I Moved to New York City

And just like that I’ve lived in New York for 6 months. New York City to be exact.

Time flies but where does it go? I’ve learned so much and I’ve become even more resilient to the odd balls life throws at me.

There’s so much to say but it all has to be experienced for one to truly grasp. Like how can I describe to you how flavorful and addictive the tacos are at Los Tacos No 1. Or how can I translate through this screen how savory and rich the sauce is at Joe’s Pizza? From the smelly Manhattan subways to the aromatic smells of Little Italy, New York is a city of juxtapositions. 

I’ve learned that it’s okay to be uncomfortable, it means that you’re growing. In this city you’ve gotta go hard or go home literally. It’s a hard place to live and even harder to build but it does make you tougher in the process. In this city I’ve learned that everything is negotiable and that is why you should ask for exactly what you want. Because what you want is what you need and if you don't get what you need you’ll suffer here.

With that said do yourself a favor and don’t neglect self-care. Pay more for what truly makes you feel good and for me that is food experiences as well lavish fabrics, wigs, nails and skin care that makes me feel better.

This city is cut throat. The south is like a gentleman that opens the door for you but New York is a place where you can only walk into places by opening the door for yourself. The disrespectful rents, gruesome stairs, claustrophobic train situations will either build resilience or anxiety.

This is the city where millennials discover that contrary to popular belief your credit score is your social report card, not Instagram.

Wearing: Thrifted Gucci Jacket, Boutique Je’ Taime Skirt (CODE: LIKE WHOA), Asos Hat, Charlotte Russe Heels

I’ve developed a love hate relationship with this place. A love for the grit it catalyzes and a deep malicious hatred for the rent that wants my soul.

When I moved here, like many, I was in for a shock. When I used to visit things felt different. Visiting New York is like dating a guy and living here is like living with him. You are going to see his true colors and how he always seems to forget to put the toilet seat down. 

No one can prepare you for how tough this city is but God Himself. Yes this city is expensive, we all know that before moving here. But once you see toothpaste on “sale” for $9 it really hits you.

At the end of the day good things come to those who hustle. Like Jay Z said…

“If I can make it here I can make it anywhere.”

It sounds so cliche but once you live here those lyrics become tattooed to your mind. 

New York is not a city for the faint of heart. Yet making it here is possible and you don’t need a sugar daddy to that. This city will force you to become your own.

Photography by Dan Castro

Williamsburg, Brooklyn Bridge