Yay! Just arrived on Monday afternoon. :) I’ve passed through the area many times by train, but that’s about it. Last year, I actually got to see the train station on 30th Street (insert sarcastic “ooooh” here) while waiting to catch a connecting train, but again, that’s about it. The station is lovely, but, you know, nothing like what’s beyond it. I walked around the area today to get a feel for what this city is really like, but felt a bit lost. See, I don’t know quite where to begin. That’s the way I feel about all cities—they’re dense, which means lots of things to do, places to see, etc., some of which can be “hidden,” if you will, from visitors’ eyes.

So, this is where all of you locals come in. I’m going to be here for a while, so I’ve got to know: What it is that I, without a doubt, must do while I’m here? Where do I need to go? What do I have to see? Where can I find the best cheesesteak(s)? LOL, if you like finer cuisine, by all means, recommend your suggestions, but know that I’m a simple girl. I wanna know where all of the good junk food is. ;) I Googled where to find the best cheesesteak(s) in Philadelphia, and while of course, Geno’s and Pat’s came up, I understand they’re more touristy (I quote the term “tourist traps,” used by one local), and, frankly, overrated. THIS IS ONLY WHAT I’VE GATHERED FROM ONLINE RESEARCH, so don’t hate me if I’m completely wrong about this. I’ve concluded that Jim’s is apparently awesome, so I kinda have my heart set on it. Is this wise? A local recommended this same place to me, so I think I might have something here. Am I right?

One more question: How do you “properly” order a cheesesteak in Philadelphia? Philadelphians are serious about their cheesesteak ordering process, so I want to make sure I get it right. Tell me what to do. It seems that it’s simply either American, provolone, or Whiz (Cheez Whiz), depending on what kind of cheese you want, followed by “wit,” meaning you want onions, or “witout,” if you prefer your cheesesteak be onionless. Is that right? Please correct me if I’m wrong. I’m thinking I can’t go wrong saying “American, without.” How does that sound? Please note that there’s no way I’m going to say “witout.” Locals sound normal saying that. I, however, sound ridiculous.

Also, random, but my Mom and I stopped by 7-Eleven yesterday evening to grab some snacks and drinks, and as we browsed around, Elton John’s Philadelphia Freedom began playing overhead. I felt like fist pumping, lmao (I know, wrong state). Who cares if it’s a 70s song, it’s amazingly appropriate for the occasion! :)

Anyway, yes. I shall be going to bed now, as I’ve had a very long day of walking around in at least 90+ degree weather. I’m from Virginia—if you’re from the East Coast, you know that it’s humid as CRAP here. Therefore, horrible heat + terrible humidity make for one very tired Brandi. That being said, goodnight, everyone. Sleep tight.

-Bran.