Single Gal in New York City
Q: We understand you live in New York City. What do you think this city offers to singles that is not available anywhere else?
I think one of the best parts about New York is that there are so many opportunities to connect with people. Whether it’s at an event or simply in the course of walking the crowded city streets, you never know where or when someone interesting is going to cross your path.
Q: What top spots would you recommend to singles who may be dining out alone in NYC?
For a great burger and a great crowd, the original P.J. Clarke’s is a must. I’m also a big fan of sushi bars. Haru’s Times Square location is one of my favorites -- the staff is friendly and the hand rolls are fantastic.
Q: You seem to have met a lot of celebrities through your blog. Can you name a few and tell us which star encounter was the most memorable?
My favorite unexpected star sighting was when I found myself working out at the gym right next to hunky Chris Noth (a.k.a Mr. Big on “Sex and the City“). Needless to say, I spent a lot more time at the gym that day! More recently, I had the pleasure of meeting View co-host Sherri Shepherd. She’s a true inspiration and a great example of a single gal living life to the fullest.
Q: What inspired you to start writing “Single Gal and the City?”
With 95 journals under my belt, I can honestly say I've always been a writer at heart. But the credit for my blog has to go to Carla, a good friend and PR colleague of mine. After repeatedly seeing me change clothes in our office bathroom for a night out on the town, Carla kept asking me when I was going to start a blog about my escapades. Her constant encouragement inspired me to create Single Gal In The City. I've already promised her a mention in the book whenever the blog becomes one!
Q: Living single in NYC can be extremely challenging. What do you think is the biggest hurdle for single women and how can they overcome it?
It’s no secret that the male-female ratio here is more than a little lopsided. I think the last statistic I heard was that single women in New York outnumber single men by 200,000. That said, for the first time ever, NYC topped Forbes’ annual list of best US cities for singles. So, even with the challenging odds, this is a great place to meet people -- IF you’re willing to make the effort. New York isn’t the kind of place where that will happen if you sit on sidelines, you have to really put yourself out there and make it happen.
Q: You offer dating and relationship advice to your readers. What is the most peculiar question you ever received and how did you respond?
I would say the most unusual question I received from a male reader was what to do after he had been dumped -- by his dating coach! I encouraged him to, yes, get back out there and find a new coach who could help him continue working on how he approaches women. Finding a coach you're compatible with is like finding a partner -- sometimes it takes multiple tries to meet your ideal match.
Q: Best solo city escape or treasure?
Solo City Escape: Here in NYC, Central Park. When it comes to an urban oasis, it just doesn't get any better. In terms of solo escapes out of town, one of my favorite places is Kansas City. Kansas City is the perfect combination of Midwestern hospitality and sophisticated city living on a smaller, more laidback scale. I always feel relaxed and recharged after a visit there.
Q: Any local clubs, organizations or groups you can recommend to individuals who want to get connected to other singles?
C Squared Group is a wonderful organization that connects young professionals through networking and social events. For the athletically inclined, ZogSports is worth checking out. It’s an intramural sports league with a charitable component that attracts smart, friendly singles and there are always post-game happy hours so you can get to know your teammates. I played in an amateur volleyball league through Zog last summer and had a great time.
Q: Online dating – are you a pro or con and why?
I’m pro and con, actually. I tried online dating on and off for five years, and got two relationships and lots of first dates out of it. I know a handful of women who met their mate online -- and many more who didn’t. I think online dating is kind of like gambling. There’s a small percentage of people who hit the jackpot, and then there’s the rest of us. I definitely think it’s worth trying -- as long as you have realistic expectations and don’t rely on the Internet as your only way to meet new people.
Q: What do you love about being single?
When it comes to being single, I’m a big believer in shaking up your routine -- whether it’s trying a new activity or restaurant, or going outside of your dating comfort zone by departing from your usual type or making the first move. I hear a lot of New York women say they’re frustrated about their single status, yet they’re unwilling to break out of a rut in even the smallest way. Whether you’re searching for a mate or not, being single is an adventure. You just have to learn how to enjoy it -- ideally with fabulous friends who won’t let you stay home and miss out on any of the fun.
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