re-introduce yourself to your own city
a reminder to fall in love with where you already are.
Sometimes we get so used to the things already around us that we forget just how lovely they are. We look outside of what we have and don’t always sit and enjoy the here. This week on the Away Edit, I challenge you to take a moment or two and enjoy the beauty of where you are now and the art of the everyday. In other words, take some time to re-introduce yourself to your own city. It’s time you get to know her again.
For me, I’ve been living in the city of Madrid for a little over a year and a half now and have gotten to know her quite well. However, due to the great gift of being busy, I haven’t been able to explore her as much as my heart tends to desire, thus inspiring this challenge. So, let’s challenge ourselves together, shall we? Here are 6 ways you can learn to love the city you’re in again and enjoy it that much more.
1. visit a new part of town
There are so many streets and paths you have yet to walk in your city, some even filled with immense beauty and wonder. Maybe make it your mission to go find the oldest tree in your city, find a river or stream nearby, or look for a small neighborhood that has a café with all of the little cozy vibes. If you’re anything like me, you have yet to explore your city in its entirety, so take this as your sign to get out and see more!
2. try food from a long-time local restaurant
A quick search online should help you figure this one out pretty quickly. With so many new restaurants and cafés opening all the time, we often forget the glory of those places that have been around longer than we have. I mean, wouldn’t you guess they’re still around for a reason? Their food must be worthy of a visit, and spending time at a local establishment that has been giving back to your community for years feels like a small way of honoring your city.
3. go to a public establishment you’ve never been to
Whether it’s a public park you’ve been dreaming of seeing or even a public library for some quiet time, you might just find your new favorite place to pass some time or enjoy a moment of peace. For me, there’s a public library about a minute from where I live, and I’ve probably told myself 20 times, “I need to go there.” This week, I might take this up as part of my challenge.
4. find a monument or historical site in your city
Believe it or not, there’s history to be found in every town in the world — not just in places like Italy, where it seems like there’s something to learn from every corner you pass. Even cities that seem “newer” came from somewhere and have something to learn or see. Go out and explore those landmarks in your neighborhood and learn a little something new.
5. find a local show to go to
No matter how big or small your town or city may be, I can almost guarantee you that there’s a show of some sort happening. There is always some form of live music, whether it’s an orchestra in a gorgeous venue or a small cocktail bar with live jazz tucked into the corner. Live music gives back to your soul in such a profound way, and I, for one, always love going to see it. However, if that’s not your thing, try finding live dancing, live acting, or, honestly, just anything live. Maybe even the circus is in town. Go take part in something local with real people and give them the gift of your presence.
6. take the long way home
You never know what life you’ll see when you do decide to take the long way home. Whether you usually take the metro or drive, try to find a route you can walk. You’ll notice things you’d never normally see: a store you didn’t realize was in your neighborhood, a new café, a little park, or a bench that ends up being the perfect reading spot. While you go on this walk, try your best to be as intentional as possible. You never know what you’ll stumble upon.
Take this as your sign to go out and try taking the longer way home or meet new people in your neighborhood. Learn your barista’s name. Try that restaurant that has cherished your city with its culture for decades. See things you may have never seen otherwise. Take this as your sign to go out and appreciate the what, the there, the now.