The jump to end all jumps

When I think back on my time in Philadelphia in the summer of 2008, I think back on a time of sunshine, house parties, great people, not finding a job, working, and somewhere that although at first a surprise, slowly unveiled its charm and authenticity to my enjoyment.

But there is one very specific memory which really stands out.I was at an American friend of mines' house about a month after I landed. It started as such ventures often did, in honing my beer pong skills. In the dead heat of the East coast evening, the gang headed out back to cool down in my friend’s huge pool; an uneventful half hour of fun and frolics ensued until my fateful jump which was to end all jumps into the family pool.

Bomb! Bomb!

Yes my friends, upon doing one of my notorious 'bombs', the entire side of the pool tore open, pulling bathers, myself included, the swing set, a slide, plants, pots, sand bags and every manner of item to grace your typical garden down stream and into the neighbours garden. And of course, it done so while also dragging every piece of fencing that stood in its way!

The place looked not dis-similar to a small scale version of the St. Stephan's day Tsunami witnessed a few years past. A reactionary laugh from the friend who owned the pool eased my worries of financial punishment and after fleeing the scene for a more erm secure venue, the night continued un-hindered!

Accommodation

In relation to accommodation I had it pretty easy for my little skip across the water to the States, with free housing and food courtesy of my aunt. Where I was based was in the suburban NW of the city, just far enough out to be beyond the 'Ghetto'. Although it was a relatively nice area, it is quite far out from the city, and not that practical for getting in and out.

As a general rule, stay away from the North inner city. If you’re intent on staying near the city centre for the nightlife, work or just generally to be in the thick of things, there are a few great spots which I would recommend. Old town is probably my favourite part of the inner city.

Ghetto Gospel

Old town is probably my favourite part of the inner city. Just outside the high rise metropolis, it is full of low rise houses, apartments, bars and restaurants.

It has a very authentic appeal and unlike much of the rest of the city has a very laid back atmosphere. Outside of this, other areas I would recommend are the Northern Liberties, Fishtown, graduate hospital, the art museum area, Queen Village and the western edge of the city centre.

If you don't mind being a little further out of the city centre (about 10 Min) then I would highly recommend settling for a few months in Manayunk, my favourite area in Philadelphia.

Why, no, I'm here for a year!

Jobs 

Unfortunately I had no preparations made at all before I went to the States in relation to the job front! A few days after I arrived I began my long and arduous hunt, literally scouring the streets for weeks looking for a job! It wasn't easy. I finally got a job as a waiter in an inner city bar/ restaurant.

I would give this advice to anyone looking for a job in Philadelphia on a J1. Do check out the job market before you head off, even if only sussing things out. Www.craigslist.org will be your bible! Don't make the same mistake I did and say your only there for only two months. Lie and lie well!
 

The Liberty Bell

Going out

As mentioned above, Old town in the city is a great place to go out, especially if you enjoy some top notch rock/ indie/ alternative entertainment, with University City having a number of more mainstream clubs. Manayunk is also a great place to head to the clubs or bars. Outside of that I spent most of my time nearer to where I was living in the North-West of the city.

There is plenty to see and do. The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Philadelphia Museum of Art, (remember the steps in Rocky?), Franklin Institute and Philadelphia Zoo are all worth a visit. Outside of the city there are theme parks and beaches galore, with six flags, Dawney Park and the Beautiful New Jersey shore all within easy reach, and very much worth a visit.

 By Paul Carr