What it’s like to be an art handler for real housewives, Wall Street weasels, and Jay Z
In this installment of our anonymous interview series, we spoke with three art handlers who install artworks in museums, galleries and estates.
What are the most popular New Year's Eve events in cities around the world?
The most popular events, like fireworks and the Times Square ball drop, cost next to nothing, but more luxe experiences can run you hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Why does it cost so much and why are people buying it?
Hopes&Fears asks psychologists and economists why anyone would shell out irrational amounts of money for trendy health food.
How happy are workers at New York City’s “Happy” businesses?
We talked to employees at a few businesses in New York City with “happy” in the title. It was a little awkward.
If you remember this playground, your childhood was awesome
The story of Bob Leathers, the architect whose kid-designed playgrounds shaped a generation of play.
What it's like to be a travel writer, from free booze to near-death experiences
We spoke with three travel writers who report from exotic, wild or luxurious destinations for money.
Which cities around the world have the worst traffic?
The study we drew from evaluated drivers in 78 key locations, measuring how often they had to “start-stop” in a year.
How a modern Santa gears up for Christmas
From beard yanking to texting while wearing the iconic white gloves, this "man in the red suit" tells Hopes&Fears about the little details that make Santa come to life.
What it’s like to sling Christmas trees round the clock in NYC
In the latest installment of our anonymous interview series, we talk with the people who
farm and sell you your Christmas trees.
How comic books taught my immigrant mom to fly
When my mom discovered the Great American Superheroes as a kid from Puerto Rico, her life changed. Comic books helped her rise up from the back of the class and ultimately defeat a real-life villain.
What are the most popular religions in cities around the world?
For this week's City Index, we take a look at the most dominant religions in ten cities around the world.
What it's like to be an inheritor
In the latest installment of our anonymous interview series, we talk to inheritors, trust fund recipients, and the solemnly rich.
A Freaks and Geeks geek on becoming the M'Lady meme
Following several standout roles as a child actor, Jerry Messing found himself at the peak of internet infamy for an unfortunate headshot as a 'poster-child of neckbeards.' This is his story.
What are the most visited tourist attractions in cities around the world?
We round up the most popular tourist attractions to visit or, if you hate tourists, to avoid.
The man who taught your cab driver how to navigate NYC
AJ Gogia runs his cab driving school like a strict headmaster. His charisma has landed him in the year's most acclaimed documentary and brought offers for a reality TV show, which he rejected.
How a bike messenger gears up for cycling in winter
Caro Ruiz shares her tips for staying warm and dry in harsh winter weather while cruising through NYC on two wheels.
What it’s really like to work
for Parks and Rec
In the latest installment of our anonymous interview series, we spoke with four government workers who help keep our public green spaces
in check.
How do greenhouse gas emissions compare in cities around the world?
On the week of the COP21 climate summit, we ranked 13 urban metropolises with regard to their carbon footprints.
