New York

© Kirit Patel

Kirit Patel, visual designer

Where? New York

Why? Why not? It’s probably the easiest place in the world to visit and, although it’s a bit of an obvious choice, I'm always excited by its variety of offerings. Everybody says it looks like it does in the movies, only bigger, and it’s true! I love taking photographs in and around the city. I have thousands in my collection. For me, everything has that NY stamp on it. I’ll never get bored of photographing those unique street signs. Having been there every year for the last four years I can't see the excitement lessening…
It's something about NY that gets me every time, the atmosphere, the dirt, the sound. Perhaps it's the cab horns hooting? Once you hear them you know you’re in the Big Apple and yes, they do sound like they do in the movies!

Where would you stay? Despite all the ultra cool hipsters in Greenwich Village and the madness of Midtown Manhattan, I would opt for fashionable Brooklyn Heights. I really like the architecture there of the residential apartments. The brownstone buildings remind you of all the cool films that they've featured in. There’s a sense of quietness around these parts which is a refreshing contrast to the city buzz.

Best meal? I got taken for brunch in Brooklyn to a small but perfectly formed café called Bridge Cafe by a native Brooklynite. Can you think of a better recommendation? I remember we had eggs benedict, though I can't remember what it tasted like. But just being there was good enough for me. There's something about being in a locals place in a city you don’t know, you know you are getting genuine food that the tourists may miss out on. That’s the appeal for me.

Best way to spend an hour? On the streets in Midtown Manhattan at night time. What other city in the world can you wander around in the early hours, still enjoy a buzz, not feel vulnerable and still find somewhere open where you can eat?

Top Tips? Use the famous cabs, they are cheap and quick. Of course, every cab driver has a story. I once asked the driver what else he did aside from the driving (as they all have "proper" day jobs). He replied, "I design websites, like every other bozo."

I’m changing my job.

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