Rewatching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and My Dream New York Life

Over the past days since the reimplementation of Enhanced Community Quarantine in the metro, which brought further travel restrictions to millions of metro dwellers, I found myself locked up in my room laughing my heart out as I watch again the ten amazing seasons of F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

There’s something about this show that’s heartwarming, hilarious, and just homey. From their remarkable scenes in Central Perk to the riots in their apartments – I mean, those places will be part of great memories not only of the cast and crews but their audiences, too.
 
Monica’s apartment was like the main stage for the show where most of the highlights and most of the funny scenes happened. Then there’s Chandler and Joey’s apartment, which later on became Joey and Rachels’ apartment, that shared all the crazy and out-of-this-world funny scenes and pranks that we could ever imagine. There’s also Ross’ apartment, which showcased his bachelor’s life and his unbelievable interest in paleontology. And finally, there’s Phoebe’s chic and very hipster-vibe apartment, which was burned down when Rachel used to live with her, and then later on renovated and brought the romantic scene of Phoebe and her boyfriend, Mike.
 
Regardless of where these guys are, there’s one hilarious moment that will bring a good laugh out of our soul, and because of this, it made me think how wonderful life might be if we all live in New York and enjoy the great company of Monica, Rachel, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler, and Joey.
 
Okay, for one, we need a nice New York apartment, and a lofty amount if we want something that looks like Ross’ or Monica’s apartment. According to Business Insider’s article in 2019 – which is before the pandemic struck the world – New York City has the reputation of being one of the most expensive cities in the world due to its booming economy and large job market across a variety of industries. One of the world’s oldest cities with a well-established economy, it’s is considered the center of business and trade for centuries now.  
 
For those who aspire to live and stay here in New York, you have to be very wise in searching for the perfect one because, at the end of the day, it’s your hard-earned money that you’ll be using for this great adventure. In an article published in CultureTrip.Com, they’ve listed down things to consider in choosing your New York apartment and these are: (1) Begin your search early, (2) Wait until after the hectic summer months, (3) Know your budget, (4) Consider finding a roommate, (5) Research neighborhoods of interest (6) Keep an eye out for 'no broker fee' specials, (7) Schedule viewings as soon as possible, and (8) Have your paperwork… And your money is ready. If you find these items too complicated, some websites offer assistance to get you an apartment.
 
Just as how well the economy of New York is, the great stories of friendship, love, and family also filled this remarkable city hence it’s been one of the top featured cities in various stories written in books, taped on television shows, and filmed on movies – and F.R.I.E.N.D.S. show showed that us.
 
So, if I’ll have a chance to live in this city and can afford to live here, I guess I’ll be living the life of Monica where I have a two-bedroom apartment, with well-organized stuff from kitchen, living room, bathroom down to the bedrooms. I’ll be happily hosting parties, reunions, soirees, or just brunch with my family and friends. I’ll tidy it up a bit as I find her house full of stuff that she barely uses, so I’ll lessen some items in her kitchen, I’ll probably install pantry cabinets and I’ll probably decorate the balcony with some plants that can tolerate the changing seasons in New York. With smart appliances now readily available, I’ll have her main door fully automatic, will some smart appliances around, especially in the kitchen since we both love cooking, and most especially, I will install some CCTV cameras so that I would know who is stealing my food and searching for their Christmas gifts on Christmas Eve. Haha!
 
I’m almost done watching the ten seasons, and as I looked back on those moments where I’m surrounded with loving friends and challenging family (haha!), I still hope that one day, after this pandemic, I get to live my dream of staying in the City that Never Sleeps and have my apartment right at the heart of New York.