When living in a popular city, I tend to stay away from the tourist-laden attractions. In Orlando, we all stayed away from International Drive (although, I freaking love Disney World). In New York, we stray from Times Square, Canal Street, and anything else the City Sights buses frequent – unless company is in town. The problem with this is that I never experienced New York as a tourist. Even before I moved here, my visits were all about visiting friends, shopping and eating good food. I have never been to the top of the Empire State Building, ridden the Staten Island Ferry, explored the Statue of Liberty – and until the other day, I had never even walked the Brooklyn Bridge.

Bobby couldn’t believe I hadn’t walked the bridge, so we promptly made our way over there and snapped some pictures, like true tourists. Despite the windy chill (which made for some purple, blotchy legs to match my shoes), it was a nice, leisurely afternoon.

Maybe next time, I’ll leave the heels at home. I was definitely the only person in heels; I still have to practice this whole tourist thing. I won’t be joining a City Sights tour anytime soon, but I’ll definitely spend more of my summer exploring this amazing city.

-Keiko Lynn