“If you love him, send him to New York, for it’s heaven. If you hate him, send him to New York, for it’s hell.” These are lines from A Beijing Native in New York, a popular Chinese TV series from the early 1990s. They may sound extreme, but they have inspired hundreds to consider moving to New York to explore all of its possibilities.

It has become increasingly popular for people from all parts of the world to make the commitment to move to New York. Here at our networking events, we have had the opportunity to meet many of these people and are always curious to hear their uniques stories on why they chose to move here. In our experience, there are three recurring major reasons:

1. New York offers a plethora of opportunities to be around people from all corners of the world. As such, moving to the Big Apple provides you with the chance to come in contact with a variety of different cultures. Currently there are approximately 200 languages spoken in New York City.

2. Where else do you have the opportunity and privilege of studying some of the most inspired art, watching some of the most creative theater adaptations, or tasting some of the most delicious food? All of which were inspired by the stories of hundreds of people who came here to put their best foot forward. And besides that–our bars open until 4am!

3. Last but not least, if you can make it in the competitive environment of NYC, you can truly make it anywhere. Love it or hate it, living in this busy–and at times overwhelming–city is an experience truly unique to anything else.

Everyone should indulge in New York at least once, either to use it as inspiration when you return home or to allow its bustling streets and diversity to pull you in forever.

3 Ways to Experience New York this Week

1. Make a reservation at one of NYC Restaurant Week’s participating venues.

2. Unwind after work with a cold beer and friendly conversation at our Beer, Networking, & Sports Game Night at the Stumble Inn.

3. Take a tour of a part of Central Park  you haven’t seen before.

Contributed by Xingyu Cindy Chen