There is life beyond this Island

When I first moved in to Manhattan in 1980 the idea of living in "The Boroughs" was laughable. If you could afford to live on your own, you lived in Manhattan. In the late 80's and early 90's the coop market exploded followed by the construction of dozens of condos all over the city. Brooklyn and Queens were sort of over looked and forgotten about.

A few nights ago I asked my 23 year old daughter what part of the city she wanted to move in to once she had saved up enough money. With out any hesitation she replied....Williamsburg. Her choice was not the least bit surprising and made me think a bit. Over the past few years, there has been tremendous growth in the neighborhoods just outside of Manhattan...Long Island City, Greenpoint, Williamsburg, Park Slope and others. New contemporary condos with all the amenities, old factories converted into lofts with high ceilings and huge windows and small buildings with old world charm. Most of these properties are selling for 30-40% less than similar properties in Manhattan. They are attracting a lot of first time buyers and young families.

Manhattan will never lose its appeal or its allure but one thing has become very clear. Unlike the way it was in 1980, there is life over the bridges and through the tunnels. And apparently, that is the path I will soon be taking if I want to visit my daughter.