Exploring New York: A Weekend Adventure and Miami Perks

Last weekend, I flew to New York to celebrate a friend’s birthday and indulge in some shopping and delicious food. This trip gave me the opportunity to reflect on three major perks of living in Miami, especially as someone who is working in finance.

1. Lower Taxes

One of the most significant advantages of living in Miami is the low tax rate. After receiving my sign-on bonus, I found that I was able to keep almost 80% of it! In contrast, earning in New York feels like a constant struggle against taxes, which can take away a substantial portion of your earnings. 💸

2. Affordable Rent

Another perk of Miami living is the affordable rent. In Miami, you can rent a stylish studio in the Financial District of Brickell for under $3,000, and it’s just a short five-minute walk from the office. Conversely, New York’s rental prices can be daunting, even for a small space. 🏢

3. Warmer Winters

Having spent some time in New York, I can confidently say that I was freezing during my visit! Returning to Miami felt like stepping back into paradise—a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes winter so much more bearable. ☀️

The Economic Struggle

Despite these perks, I must admit that saving money in my current job at a hedge fund has been a challenge. While my salary is decent for entry-level positions in finance, it feels just enough to live comfortably with little left over for savings. 😢

Food and Fun in New York

However, New York is an absolute haven for food lovers and shoppers. On Friday, I spent the day exploring Soho and fell in love with a place called Guizio. Dinner was at Sushi Amane for an omakase experience; while it wasn’t the best, it was still enjoyable. We originally planned to watch the sunset at Westlight for my friend’s birthday on Saturday, but the cloudy weather didn’t deter us—the city lights were enchanting nonetheless. To top it all off, my friend baked a beautiful blueberry cake that stole the show! 🎂

Discovering Hidden Gems

Recently, I also stumbled upon a fantastic North American website for contact lenses: MoMolense. Amazing news—shipping is tax-inclusive! The products arrive surprisingly fast, sometimes even by the next day, and you don’t need a prescription. I managed to restock my favorite pair, Moody, and as someone who struggles with dry eyes, I can wear them all day without discomfort! 🥳

Final Thoughts

Graduating and using my paycheck to enjoy life brings such complex feelings—it’s exhilarating yet a bit painful to see funds dwindle! Still, I cherish my adventures, especially the experiences gathered in vibrant cities like New York and the comfort of Miami.

Whether you’re navigating a job in finance or just exploring new places, always remember to enjoy the journey—after all, it’s the little moments that make life truly special! 🌍