I live in Chicago and have heard the horror stories about New York.  However, I travel to New York a few times a year, and I have never had a bad experience with New Yorkers.  Over 10 years ago, I was in New York for the first time to run the New York Marathon.  I could not have been treated any better.  I was not an Elite Runner, so it wasn’t like I was getting special treatment.  New York and the citizens just welcomed all runners with open arms.  A few months ago, fellow GTer Louie and I decided to take the subway from LaGuardia to our hotel in Times Square.  While we were looking at the big transit map, two NY police officers approached us to offer their assistance.  Within a few minutes, we were on the right train headed to Times Square.  Last time, we were trying to take the subway from Central Park to the Affinia Hotel.  It was a Saturday, which led to some confusion about the train schedule.  Panos Kappos, a musician playing in the subway, offered his unsolicited help.  He explained the train situation and played some great music while we waited for our train.  My friends and I were at the first game between the Mets and the Yankees at new Yankee Stadium.  This heated rivalry is the perfect setting for chaos.  However, the crowd was lively without being unruly.  There were several fun debates about which team was better, but nothing got out of hand.  It was a great example of class from fans of both teams.  New Yorkers have given me plenty of suggestions on restaurants — from great pizza places and delis to fine dining.  I can honestly say they have never steered me wrong. 

I don’t know where all of those horrible stories originate.  I hope I never come across any such situation.  If the past is any indication, I don’t expect to have anything but a great time while in New York.

–John Wroblewski, distribution specialist