As an exchange student from London, traveling around the country is part and parcel of this study abroad experience.

This past weekend I made the all-important voyage to the wondrous “concrete jungle where dreams are made of,” (as Alicia Keys puts it) to visit friends in their lovely rented apartment in Brooklyn. Traveling downstate brilliantly captured New York’s eclectic scenery with a plethora of autumnal trees gradually replaced with the bright lights and skyscrapers that Manhattan is famous for. Enticed by the glittering sights and vibrant atmosphere, I quickly disregarded my fear of missing out on a Friday night at Scoreboard and immersed myself fully in the magnetizing atmosphere that New York City has to offer.

First stop: shopping! I felt like I was on “Sex and the City” as I strutted down Fifth Avenue, hoping to catch a glimpse of the latest trends. With this new flair of confidence as a Carrie Bradshaw protege, I entered Louis Vuitton in the hope of matching her chic style. Only, once I noticed that the bag I was admiring would wipe clean my entire student loan I decided to head into Zara instead. Perhaps I was the one getting a little Carrie-d away …

To satisfy our hunger from walking crazily around the grid system (a life-saver for those of us who lack any sense of direction), we decided to delve our taste buds in the health craze that has swept the city’s food scene. However, during my afternoon, I learned that you should not ask for butter in a vegan restaurant, but as I’m always up for new experiences I took it in stride.

We then went to this trendy area in Brooklyn called Williamsburg, which I suggest visiting for captivating views of Manhattan’s skyline, flea markets and vintage boutiques. We also spotted a few celebrities here.

For nightlife, we hopped on the subway to the Meatpacking District, which felt like a scene out of “Sex and the City,” especially when I was told by the bouncer at Buddha Bar that I could not come in because he “doesn’t do flip flops.” Apparently there is a strict high-heel-only policy.

However, late-night eating at the assortment of high-rated Asian-fusion restaurants that line Ninth Ave, followed by dancing and delectable cocktails, assured that I returned most nights!

As the jazz ensembles prepared to end their musical accompaniments on a high final note in lower Manhattan, I, too, was slowly approaching the end of my trip. With exhibitions, Broadway shows and a trip up to Rockefeller Center’s Top of the Rock to name a few exciting adventures, I decided that there was only one way to culminate the trip on a high: with a famous New York steak. The juicy Prime Grill steak certainly hit the spot and puts those in the “city that never sleeps” to rest.

My New York moment was concluding and I took the departing Greyhound bus back up to Binghamton with fond memories and exciting photographs. Until next time, Scoreboard shall have to suffice.