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Writer's pictureCarla Rasem

My Summer Adventure in New York

Look up in New York

Look Up in New York to See the Buildings


Hello! My name is Carla, and I’m a 16-year-old girl with a deep passion for exploring new countries and cultures. This summer was the greatest experience of my life, as I finally completed my biggest dream of visiting New York. In this article, I want to share my insights into this English-speaking city and encourage you to love travel, practise your English, and have unforgettable adventures.


The Longest Textbook in New York

5th Avenue

Did you know that 5th Avenue is the longest street in New York? There is so much to see and do! The English language is everywhere - on street signs, shop windows, restaurants, and on information boards at famous places. For me, it was fascinating to explore the language this way. Everywhere you look, there are opportunities to learn new vocabulary and phrases. You can also find translations in some places, so if you’re unsure about the meaning, you can double-check it in your native language. One memorable moment was seeing people in red T-shirts handing out brochures and inviting tourists to join a boat ride to the Statue of Liberty. It showed me how good I was at English.


Good Food Is Where Your Heart Is

Do you want to be full of experiences or just full of food? New York has lots of opportunities to try new cuisines. It feels like you’re travelling the world through flavours, spices, and dishes from many countries. You can enjoy classic American junk food, but also a wide variety of international options. For those who prefer the comfort of familiar food, you can still find dishes from your home country. New York’s food scene has something for everyone, whether you’re adventurous or a bit picky.


The Subway: A Real New York Experience

One of my favourite experiences was riding the subway. It felt like being in a TV show, surrounded by people with different accents and languages. I overheard a father and son speaking German, which reminded me of home. When you’re on the subway, it’s better to look at the people around you rather than staring at your phone. You might notice funny, interesting, or inspiring moments that make the ride more interesting. Pay attention to the English phrases people use because you might pick up some new expressions to try yourself! The subway gave me a look at the real New York City, with its colourful mix of people and languages. If you use Uber, interactions are usually just professional, but the subway lets you see people in their everyday lives.


A Bridge Between Stressful and Peaceful Life

New York City isn’t just about skyscrapers and busy streets. Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge was like going into a different world. Brooklyn felt more relaxed, with fewer crowds and open skies. It was the perfect escape from the speed of Manhattan. If New York feels overwhelming on your first visit, I recommend spending some time in Brooklyn. It’s like taking a break in the cafeteria of a busy office. It’s calm and peaceful.


Central Park
My Aunty and Me in Central Park

Stand by Me: Moments in Central Park

One of the most special moments of my trip was in Central Park. As I walked through the park, I stopped to listen to a man singing ‘Stand by Me’. When I stood nearby, he noticed and said to the crowd, “She stands by me.” It was a nice moment of connection. Central Park is a place where you can slow down, enjoy nature, and reflect on your experiences. Watching happy families and listening to music made me feel part of something bigger. It was a shared human experience.

The Statue of Liberty

Helicopter: My Top Tip!

My personal highlight was taking a helicopter ride over the city. The view was breath-taking, and it gave me a new perspective on New York. I highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting the city!


Overall, my trip to New York was everything I had dreamed of and more. I hope you enjoyed reading about my experiences and feel inspired to travel and practise your English. Don’t be afraid to use the language. Nobody is perfect, but every step you take helps you grow. Trust me, you’ll look back with pride on what you’ve achieved.





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