Finally I was able to visit this great city. It was a one day trip, during which I walked from around 44th Street to Financial District and Battery Park, and back. The day was quite hot and humid, making the walking tour almost unbearable.
Unfortunately, my money ran out long before I reached the city. Therefore, the only things I could afford were one NYC T-shirt, Frappucino from Starbucks, juices from various grocery stores, and the free ferry ride to Staten Island and back. My friend whom I travelled with had similar financial problems.
NYC felt more like a city, compared to Chicago, where I live. Personally I think graffitis are part of a city, and even lower Manhattan had those. I also liked the consistency of architecture, and the scent of history oozing from the old buildings.