The Big Apple: Sweet as L.A. Oranges

After happily living in Los Angeles for 14 years (as a Minnesota transplant), in February I moved to New York City to help my brother run his restaurant. Like many Americans, Sept. 11 caused me to reassess my life and to do things I always wanted to do. Because I’m in a relationship, I commute back and forth once a month. My air travel has been virtually hassle-free. As long as you’re ready with identification in hand and follow the new rules set forth, everything goes smoothly.

I miss L.A. dearly, while finding my New York City experience thrilling as well as a dream come true. To experience these two American greats is amazing. I’ve seen the “Tribute in Light” and paid tribute at ground zero. And I make a point to patronize lower Manhattan. For all the competition and cliches between the two cities, it all comes down to how they both embody our great nation. Diverse. Magical. And full of opportunity. One is not better than the other. They truly are apples and oranges.

Thomas Smith

West Hollywood