A brief look at two metropolises

13. A brief look at two metropolises

NEW YORK In the 19th century, a businessman predicated that New York was going to become the centre of the world. His prediction has partly come true. Today, New York is often regarded as one of the financial and cultural capitals of the Western World. The United Nations has its headquarters in the city as well.

New York, where the world-famous twin towers of the World Trade Center were once located, is known as a city of skyscrapers. There are parks, great museums, art galleries, grand theatres and cinemas for visitors as well. However, like many other cities in the world, New York also has its own problems---noise, air pollution, crimes, traffic jams, and slums. Still, the fast, exciting pace of life in New York City is fascinating and this may be a reason why the city continues to fascinate more and more people.

LONDON London was once known as a city of fog. At that time, many Londoners did not expect that their city would change for the better. However, heavy fog is now rarely seen in London. As a city with a long history, London has also gone through many changes. The days are gone when horse-drawn carriages were a common sight in the street. Now London is famous for its excellent underground service and the red double-deckers have become a symbol of the city. The second half of the 20th century saw great changes in the city. Skyscrapers have sprung up; business centres for the 21st century are also growing fast.

However, London has kept its heart. People can still enjoy themselves with a cup of tea in Convent Garden(科文特加登广场). Some of the narrow roads that lead to churches are still there, taking people back to London’s old days. Although there are such concerns as heavy traffic, crowded shops and dirty streets in some areas, to many people, London remains the most interesting and wonderful city in the world.