We’re in New York doing some shopping this weekend.
This is my fourth visit to the big apple and I think all the buzz has worn off.
Oh, the shopping is ok. Some things are definitely cheaper here, or more important, available - despite what the UK gov says on obesity, Americans are much bigger/fatter than Brits, so there is greater choice for clothes for me 
The sticker price often looks good, but you have to add sales tax, and if it’s a service or restaurant, the gratuity tax (helpfully calculated for you in bills at 18%).
Sometimes you get mail-in rebates, but that’s no good if you’re not a resident.
You can still get bargains on some things (and we have) but it’s not so much about price anymore. Long gone are the days when you can fly to NY for the weekend, buy a reasonable amount of stuff and save money, including the airfare.
But the thing that really turns me off is the dirt and smell and tedium of street grids. I found it particularly bad two visits ago when I had to work here for a week. There’s a depressing monotony about it. I’d hate to have to work here for a longer term.
So back to London today. Looking forward cooler weather (it’s upper 30s ºC here, lower 20s in London) and grass and accessible water and good food from supermarkets.
And I miss Herman.
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