I Spent 12 Days in New York City Here is My Honest Review

Have you desired to visit New York City, the city that never sleeps? Well, I spent 12 days in the Big Apple, soaking up all the sights and sounds —from the rollercoaster ride of lights, culture, food, and a few surprises.

From Brooklyn to Staten Island and everything in between, this is my honest review of New York City as a African Caribbean coming to America and living in New York for the first time.

So, why New York City? Well, it’s the Big Apple—a bucket-list destination for millions. But with all the hype, I wanted to see it for myself. Is it truly magical, or just an overpriced tourist escape?

New York City—the city that never sleeps. Home to over 8.8 million people, a metropolis that is always buzzing with life 24/7. Also New York City welcomes more than 60 million visitors every year?

it’s not just about the skyscrapers and Broadway—it’s a melting pot of culture, food, and unforgettable experiences.

Prior to landing in New York my flight had a delay so when I landed at JFK, I was excited. I mean, THIS was New York City! My friend picked me up and off we went to where I would be staying which was in Brooklyn.

However The first thing that hit me was? The cold! and then the culture shock came: the fast-paced life, the amount of people in one place and again the cold. This was during the month of February which is the coldest month during the winter season.

New York is also very noisy there’s always somebody playing music and sirens. New York in my observation is a very fast pace everything is fast the cars are fast, the people are fast.

It’s like everybody’s always rushing somewhere because they are constantly on the go which is so different from my home country.

Back home in my home country Trinidad and Tobago. It is not fast paste. Everybody in my opinion is just laid back and takes their time.

So trying to equate Trinidad to New York is not comparable. New York is also considered one of the most expensive city if to live in in America.

I also realize while being there that the narrative that have been sold to us on mainstream media about America in terms of everything working like clockwork was not true.

After spending a few days there I realize that America too has it own problems and flaws and America just like every other country across the globe has their own issues. In America there are the beautiful sides and then there are the not so beautiful sites in each state.

So these are my honest opinions and as with all opinions they might not be the perspective of others and you who might be viewing who may have visited New York before. We all have a different perspective of how we see things and that’s ok.

So now let’s dive into my journey—12 days in NYC, starting in the heart of Brooklyn!”

Brooklyn, is a borough known for its creativity, diversity, and over 2.6 million residents. Brooklyn is where cultures collide, and you can literally taste the world in one neighborhood.

I even spent a few days on Staten Island, which is the lesser-talked-about sibling of NYC’s boroughs but has its own charm. But more about that in a bit.

So let’s start my review!

1. The Food

New York never sleeps so if you want food at 3am in the morning somewhere close will have their doors open and you can get that. In Brookyln where I stayed you can find a mix of cultures.

In Brooklyn New York you can find alot of Caribbean people residing there as well as on almost every corner you can find a Caribbean food place, shop, store or deli.

I was able to find Caribbean food in Brooklyn—a LOT of it and oh, and Brooklyn did NOT disappoint. From my home country doubles to pies to the most mouthwatering roti, I felt like I was back home in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Caribbean community here is vibrant and proud, and the number of Caribbean-owned businesses is just amazing. If you’re ever in Brooklyn, definitely visit Utica Avenue—it’s a hotspot for all things Caribbean!

I also ate my way through the city.

Pizza. Guys, NYC pizza is no joke. A $3 slice from a random corner spot. The thin, foldable crust, gooey cheese, and just the right amount of sauce

Bagels. If you haven’t had a New York bagel with cream cheese, you will love it? They’re dense, chewy, and delious. My favorite? A classic everything bagel.

Quesabirria Tacos: A Crispy tacos filled with slow-stewed beef and cheese, served with a rich consommé for dipping.

Jamaican Beef Patties: This is a flaky pastry filled with spicy beef, chicken, or veggie curry.

But here’s the thing—eating out in NYC adds up fast without even trying.

2. The Attraction

Next up—the attractions. I hit all the big ones: Times Square, 42 Street in Manhattan, Central Park, Staten Island, and Driving over the Brooklyn Bridge.

Times Square? Overwhelming, colorful, and crowded. It’s like sensory overload in the best way possible. I’ll be honest, though—I was ready to escape the crowds and the constant flashing lights.

I couldn’t stay there for more than 30 minutes without wanting to escape the chaos. My pro tip? Go late at night or early in the morning if you want to enjoy it.

Central Park? Absolutely stunning. It’s like a peaceful oasis in the middle of all the madness. t’s massive—like, 843 acres massive—and I spent hours walking through its trails, enjoying the calm in the middle of the urban madness.

If you need a breather in NYC, Central Park is the place to be.” Pro tip: rent a bike—it’s the best way to see everything without getting exhausted.

Driving Across the Brooklyn Bridge: One bucket list item I had to check off was driving across the Brooklyn Bridge. The views were unreal—Manhattan on one side, Brooklyn on the other, and the East River sparkling below.

It’s one of those moments where you realize just how iconic this city really is.

Staten Island: Staten Island. I’ll be honest—it’s not as fast-paced or glamorous as Manhattan or Brooklyn, but that’s what makes it unique. It’s quieter, more suburban, and it felt like a much-needed break from the city’s hustle.

3. The Vibe

Let’s talk about the vibe. New York has this electric energy—you can feel it the moment you step off the plane. People are always moving, the city buzzes 24/7, and there’s this sense that anything is possible.

New York can be…a LOT. The crowds? Overwhelming. The subway? Efficient but chaotic and Confusing for a first timer.

I’ll never forget my first subway ride—some guy was literally walking behind me offering me money trying to get me to stop and talk to him.

I just said good day after he said good day and that was his que I guess of him interpreting I was telling him I was interested.

However I never stopped and I just continued to walk at a faster paste to keep my distance between him and me. So yes that was my experience for the first time taking the subway.

And that was strange to me because being a Caribbean girl we are friendly so saying good day if someone greets you is normal. But that one was a strange.

But I remember my friend telling me Patricia this is not Trinidad so try not to be to overly friendly with people on the streets because some people can do some crazy things. So it was true.

I also got lost twice, but hey, it’s part of the experience, right? The crowds? They can be a bit much, especially if you’re not used to being shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers. Sirens, honking, construction—it’s like a never-ending symphony.

So, after 12 days in New York City, what’s my honest review?

1. The Good

• I love the diversity in food and culture, especially in Brooklyn.
• I enjoyed touring the Iconic landmarks like Times Square and the Brooklyn Bridge.
• Easy access to transportation at anytime 24/7

2. The Not So Good

• It’s EXPENSIVE. Seriously, even a coffee can cost you $6.
• The crowds, especially in Manhattan, can be overwhelming
• It is always very busy busy and has alot of traffic.

3. The Unforgettable

• Finding Trinidadian food in Brooklyn—it was like a piece of home thousands of miles away.
• The views from the Staten Island—it’s a hidden gem for sure.
• Driving across the Brooklyn Bridge

So, after 12 days, what’s my verdict? New York City is intense. It’s beautiful, chaotic, inspiring, and overwhelming—all at the same time. But you know what? That’s what makes it so unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip, here’s my advice:

• Come with an open mind and comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a lot.
• Budget wisely. This city can be as expensive or as affordable as you make it.
• And most importantly, don’t try to do it all. Pick a few key things and give yourself time to soak it all in.

So, is New York worth visiting? Absolutely. Would I go back? Absolutely. But I’d do it differently—less rushing, more exploring the quieter sides of the city.

Alright, there you have it that’s my honest review of New York City! It’s a city of extremes—extreme beauty, extreme hustle, and extreme surprises. Have you been to New York City? Or is it on your bucket list?

I’d love to hear your experience—what did you love, hate, or find surprising? Drop it in the comments below. And if you’re planning a trip, let me know what’s on your must-see list!

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