English and Adventure in New York: Débora
Many students are drawn to the excitement and culture of New York City, one of the most famous destinations in the world – so it's not wonder that Brazilian student Débora Gomes chose to improve her English at our New York Empire State English school. We invited Débora to share a bit about her #KaplanExperience. While in NYC, she took the opportunity to explore the city as much as she could.
Studying English outside Brazil had always been a dream of mine. I believe that total immersion in the language is the most effective way of learning and maturing. Kaplan came into my life and it was an unforgettable experience! The school had super friendly staff, wonderful teachers, and an amazing view – simply stunning! It is no wonder that NY is known as the capital of the world. I experienced people from all corners, many accents, lots of diversity, beautiful places, wonderful restaurants, and a huge cultural wealth. After the course I felt confident in my ability to tackle more complex issues.
Check out Débora's testimony below, including the top 10 places she believes you shouldn't miss in New York.
10 MUST-SEE PLACES IN NEW YORK
First time visitors will encounter countless people on the streets, discover the subway, and be surrounded by the bright lights of NYC. Every corner of the city has its peculiarities, but there are some things that you simply cannot leave the island without experiencing.
1. Central Park
Almost always inlcluded in New York movies, Central Park is a must-see! The colors and charm of the many seasons transform the park into a new place throughout the year. Places to visit in Central park include:
- Wollman Rink – a skating rink you can enjoy during the winter season
- Sheep Meadow – A lawn perfect for picnicking, taking pictures, and catching a little sun
- Bethesda Fountain - The most famous fountain in the park
- Strawberry Fields - A tribute to the music of John Lennon and The Beatles
2. Times Square
The vibrant mixture of lights, colors, and people make this corner of the city mesmorizing. Around it are the main theatres of Broadway, the Madame Tussauds Museum, and dozens of famous shops and cool restaurants.
3. The Statue of Liberty
This is probably the most important monument in New York. Without a doubt, a must see!
4. Rockefeller Center
During the holiday season, Rockefeller Center has the most beautiful illuminated Christmas tree in the city. There is also a winter skating rink, and it's worth taking a photo there. On hot days, a cool attraction is the "Top of the Rock" observatory, where you have an amazing view of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Beautiful!
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5. Brooklyn Bridge
This is the bridge that links Manhattan to Brooklyn. It is a delightful walk and has a view of Manhattan that can't be beat.
6. High Line Park
High Line Park is a suspended garden that has several chairs for sunbathing and lots of art! It is one of my favorite places!
7. Grand Central Station
This is one of the world's largest train station. It has a rich decor, impeccable marble sculptures, beautiful marble floors, and a ceiling you have to see. It is worth checking!
8. Empire State Building
This 102-story building is one of the city's most famous postcards. The view from the top is indescribable! The Kaplan English school is on the 63rd floor of the building and it was a wonderful experience to be able to study in this iconic skyscraper.
9. Natural History Museum
This is the largest museum of its kind in the world, and is also a must see! The giant dinosaur fossils occupy a whole room, and the giant blue whale suspended over the sea life section is breathtaking! The planetarium is also a great section – with the most advanced projectors in the world, you have an almost real experience of being in space. Beautiful!
10. World Trade Center
The memorial of September 11 is very emotion, but worth seeing. There are two huge pools with waterfalls (which symbolize the tears of those who went in the tragedy) located exactly where the twin towers were.
The memorial museum is beautiful and touching. It is also full of information, objects found in the rubble, and some iron structures made of pieces of the original Twin Towers. Undoubtedly, it is a rich lesson in recent world history.
Have you every been to visit New York City? If so, share your experiences and tips with us in the comment section below!
