Friendly New York

I have to say that we have found the people of New York the most friendly out of all the overseas places we have travelled to in recent years.

The people working in the touristy and transport areas we have visited here, are effeicient, smile and look as if they are enjoying themselves. Even the people the streets are friendly and will stop to see if you need any help.

Why is that? Area they so all the time? Or is it because the recent Labour Weekend Holiday is the 'Last Hurray of Summer?'

While striding most of the way along 5th avenue today I thought about all the different types of people we have met around the world - in the tourism, service industries and in general, around the world.

For example, in St Petersburg the people are efficient - sometimes, but stoic and don't smile. Pushy in the streets, but according to our guide 'they just want to get there'

In Sweden - helpful when they realize you speak English.

Most European places that we visited - no shop service as we know it.

Italy - tending towards arrogance at times.

Spain - don't swagger like the Italians and not so 'full on'

Australia - no shop service as we know it.


Cuba - easy going - helpful when you get to know them

Washington (USA) effecient, friendly, but don't smile - as much as New Yorkers.

As we trundled out of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which included a huge display about John Lennon and Yoko Ono, I could understand why John loved New York so much.

It was not just all its numerous nooks and crannies - it was the friendliness of the people!