Shifting Lenses

New York is a true melting pot, which makes it unique among my favorite cultural cities. While many other cities with a great cultural vibe have a dominant culture that makes you feel like you’re in a different country, New York’s cultural scene is defined by its incredible diversity.

New York’s skyscrapers don’t necessarily scream “culture”—they look similar to those in Melbourne, Singapore, or London. To me, what makes the city special is the huge variety of authentic cultural experiences, especially the food. You can find incredible Chinese, authentic Thai, classic Southern American, Greek, and French pastries with little effort. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can explore Uzbek, Ethiopian, or Zambian cuisine. Beyond the food, there are pride parades for different countries, like Puerto Rico and Poland, and festivals almost every weekend. If someone wants to experience the cultures of the world but can’t travel the globe, New York is the place to go.

Although some parts of New York can be very touristy, the city offers a wealth of authentic experiences, making it one of the best cities in the U.S. to explore diverse cultures.