9 Small Things About New York You Never Thought Would Make You Homesick

New York City is a place that can evoke strong feelings of nostalgia and homesickness, even for small, often overlooked aspects of life there. Here are nine small things about New York that might make you homesick:

1. The Sound of Car Horns

   • The constant honking of car horns is a quintessential New York sound that can be both chaotic and comforting. For those who miss the city, the absence of this familiar noise can be a reminder of what’s left behind.

2. Street Vendors and Smells

   • The aroma of roasting chestnuts, hot dogs, and pretzels from street vendors is a sensory experience unique to New York. Missing these smells can evoke memories of walking through bustling streets.

3. Subway Performers

   • The music and performances in subway stations add to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. From musicians to breakdancers, these impromptu shows can be deeply missed by those who no longer live in New York.

4. 24/7 Delis and Bodegas

   • New York’s delis and bodegas are always open, offering a sense of convenience and community. Missing the ability to grab a late-night snack or chat with a friendly deli owner can be a source of homesickness.

5. Yellow Cabs

   • The iconic yellow cabs are a symbol of New York City. For those who miss the city, seeing a yellow cab in another city can evoke strong feelings of nostalgia.

6. Neighborhood Characters

   • Each New York neighborhood has its unique characters, from the eccentric street artists to the friendly local shopkeepers. Missing these familiar faces can make one feel homesick.

7. Seasonal Changes in Central Park

   • Watching the seasons change in Central Park, from blooming flowers in spring to snow-covered landscapes in winter, is a special experience. Missing these natural transformations can be a source of longing.

8. Late-Night Conversations in Diners

   • New York diners are famous for their late-night conversations over coffee and pie. Missing these casual, deep discussions with friends or strangers can evoke feelings of homesickness.

9. Graffiti and Street Art

   • The vibrant graffiti and street art in New York’s neighborhoods, such as Williamsburg, add to the city’s dynamic culture. For those who miss the city, seeing these murals can remind them of the creativity and energy of New York.

Each of these small aspects of New York life contributes to the city’s unique charm and can evoke strong feelings of nostalgia and homesickness in those who no longer live there.

Sources

1. https://animalnewyork.com/2022/11/30/homesick-for-old-new-york/
2. https://seeoldnyc.com/manhattan-2000s/
3. https://www.tripadvisor.in/Articles-l9FFRtutgvYM-Nyc_unique_experiences.html
4. http://www.boldbeautifulbarnard.com/unafraid-at-barnard/2019/10/17/getting-through-homesickness-in-new-york-city
5. https://wanderamatravel.com/i-love-old-new-york-city-nostalgia-historic-tour/