Many Brits dream of a festive getaway to New York – with the city’s extravagant Christmas decorations and bustling shops.
However, one woman’s recent trip was marred by an unexpected issue. Georgia Sian, known as georgiasianxx on TikTok, shared her experience of the city’s peculiar smell in a candid video clip.
The footage shows Georgia and a friend walking through New York, holding their scarves over their noses, and exclaiming: “What is that?” In the caption, she wrote: “POV: You’re walking through NYC” and “it smells so bad”.
Despite the city’s visual appeal, it seems the odour has left a lasting impression on tourists. Since it was shared, the video has garnered more than 16,000 likes, and sparked a lively discussion about the city’s scent.
Many viewers agreed with Georgia’s sentiment, sharing their own experiences of unpleasant smells during their visits. One person commented: “By the end of the trip I was honestly so fed up of the smell of food trucks as well.” Meanwhile, a fourth also remarked: “Bin day is the worst day.”
Another added: “Was there last week. I can relate.” A third also wrote: “I’m here right now, and I think the same.”
New York’s notorious odours have sparked a frenzy on social media, with users quick to air their grievances about the city’s less than fragrant streets. The Big Apple’s distinctive stench has long been a topic of discussion, with refuse at street corners and the passage of garbage trucks contributing to what some describe as the “signature scent” of the city.
The pungent aroma of horse manure is also not uncommon along the paths of Central Park, adding to the unsavoury cocktail. Moreover, the scent of “burnt street meat” wafts through the air, emanating from the myriad of food carts serving up an array of snacks like soft pretzels, dark meat skewers and a variety of sauces to both locals and tourists alike.
When these smells mingle, they create an overpowering and often unpleasant atmosphere that can be quite overwhelming. Perhaps not the ideal sensory experience for anyone exploring the city!
