Hi Steemians,

Good morning from the city that never sleeps, and neither did I! Partly because of what's happening after the Bitcoin fork...exciting times to be alive. However, here is a summary of what an ideal day in New York during Christmas can look like. It's both a city guide and a recipe for a happy day.

RULE number 1

Get hold of a person you really like, your best FRIEND, possibly wearing colourful pieces of clothing, someone who loves walking for miles towards the unknown without losing her temper and with no goals for the day. Get in the Subway and choose a random stop.

Next time we film together, we can make an effect like this, @sirwinchester , @mrs.steemit , @soldier , @topp.c-cret , @sandroieva .

RULE number 2

Now, add to that a finely brewed COFFEE and a STICKY BUN! As my days are hugely affected by the quality of my morning espresso, I am particularly picky with my choice and today we have delegated to Rick, the guy behind this window - incredibly cheerful manners and thick southern accent - my daily dose of happiness.

RULE number 3

As you are meandering through the streets, trying to figure out where on earth you landed, you have to look out for every single clue and detail. WHERE ARE YOU?

?

Ok, maybe when you spot a shop like this - where they seem to sell a horse! - you better stop and ask someone. DON'T CHECK ON YOUR MOBILE, really ask someone, and old people with a stick are the best, because they take the time, grab your arm, and often tell you a story about the area.

This is Bowery Street, or 'The Bowery'. It was one the the earliest settlement in the city, which originated around the harbour and used to be the playing ground for sailors excesses and the first immigrants. As the immigrants got wealthier, they would move north and sell their houses to the new comers. It's been always an eccentric area of Lower Manhattan, with the first theatres, cabaret shows, and gives birth to the best American punk music: Patti Smith, Blondie, Ramones, Talking Heads. Today, you can still see how charming, creative and lively it is.

RULE number 4

Let's get the CHRISTMAS SHOPPING marathon STARTED ! Here you have the chance to find some really original presents, and feel more like you are recycling antique extraordinarily rare artifacts, then consuming industrial products.

In this shop, for example, I found the first toy I ever remember playing, and still my favourite of all times, way better than GTA... but I understand I am getting too nostalgic now. How does it work? You press the buttons furiously to right and left punch the hell out of your friend. Who rips off the other contender's head wins. End of the game.

RULE number 5

Get inside the most crammed Mexican restaurant, where locals seem to hang out at the entrance. TRUST YOUR INSTINCT, and when the icon of the restaurant is Rey Mysterio, you know that must be the place for a good meal.

And when it comes to get a donut, the same rule must apply. I got convinced by the golden nail polish!

Enough for today. I will keep you on the loop of the next New York random discoveries!

* #steemitbloggers * - @appreciator

All the best,
Alessandro + Elena