While not my first time in State, it was my first time in Manhattan, despite my exaggerated image of cloud piercing old skyscrapers; it was quite the contrary. The Manhattan I found, was bustling with new architecture mixing the old , the city is constantly reinventing itself.  

New York geographically layout makes a complex space immediately navigable. Manhattan invites long walks, because walkers can judge distance easily and always know where they are. This is particular useful say you are on 50^th Street and 6^th Avenue and need to go to 30^th Street and 2^nd Avenue, you have about 1 mile to walk south and 1 mile to walk east. This helps a lot when judging whether or not a subway ride is worth it.

The city is rich in culture doesn’t happen overnight. It is the result of centuries of migrations, polices, protests and practices of people that value culture, heritage and expression. From world famous productions on proscenium stages to longstanding drumming circles in City parks, New York is home to an unparalleled variety of artistic activities that give New York’s a sense of belonging amid a dense, impersonal urban enclave, provide space of people to engage in civic action.  The 5-day trip in New York has been inspiring.