New York

Central Park,NYC. Day 95.

I am sure you have been in New York city? If not, you will do it eventually. I know. So I don't wanna spoil too much. Just a hint though: this is a magical metrolool (full of great architechture, huge diversity of people, busy business life, nice parks, swedish and german tourists etc. etc.... and incredible comfy & useful subway lines/ stations)! It is a city that deserves all it's reputation.

Spring time means playoffs in NHL hockey. For once, NY Rangers made their way trough. I had a unique chanse to get a Seat for the Division senifinal game #5 against Philadelphia Flyers. The venue: Madison Square Gatden, of course. What a show, Rangers!

Perhaps the most important thing for a Visually Impaired traveller is that moving arround with public transportation is (possible and) easy. Before coming here, I had huge expectations for NY subway and could not wait to start observations. 

And the jury has made a decision: it is accessible!! The system has clear and large signs to assist 5 million people moving arround every day, and that really helps me too! Many times I was able to stand right next to the signs and read then with bare eyes. Timetables displays do not excist so much, maybe 'cause there is Always a new train coming. (24/7/365).

Well, of course the largest transfer stations are huge and bit like labyrints. Lines cross each other here and there in different floors and don't always have audio stop announcements. Also, stations are often relatively shady and really crowded. All this can get complicated for folks with lower vision than mine. Though, I think using a white cane would help remove those 5 million people from one's way... 

But as I am n America, must this observation look like a burger. So last but not least, my favourite: Stairs!! It might seam silly to talk about stairs so much when it comes to Visual accessibility, but think about it! How easy it is to get hurt or fall if you miss just one step. That's why the stripe (contrast) line is important as well as proper railing on the side. NYC subway gets 7/10 points from judge West in this category. 

Yes, I'm a fan of public transportation details and kinda nerd when it comes to the worlrd of learning timetables, routes and stop lists by heart (Cheers, Wacko!) BUT let us not forget these either: 1) Street furniture and signs, 2) the built environment and public spaces and 3) public facilities and services.

All these fields should work smoothly in order a place to be a "dream city".  Sidewalks have to stay clear from extra obstacles, crossroads should have audio beepers and restaurants need large font menus  etc. This is just to mention few basic things to help us Visually Impaired People to survive/enjoy life and our cities.

NYC can fulfill a lot of dreams. Businesses, Broadway, The world of sports etc. are stuff where things can get really big in this city. But honestly, for a VIP life can be easier somewhere else. Let's keep dreaming and working on better accessibility whereever we want. For me that is Helsinki. 

Timo

Ps. New York bottom2: Hostel prices & long lines for many things, even if they are not SO special 

New yok Top2: The noise in MSG when Rangers scored & the City that does not sleep, in general!