Arriving in over the suburbs of Newark, New Jersey.
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Passing through Newark. http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3283/3154995654_63847dd250_b.jpg
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There she blows.
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Plainfield, NJ on the way to Philadelphia.
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Crossing the Delaware into Philadelphia.
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Back to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
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Miami
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is that guy naked :O

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and i think saw some man berries in another one - lol

Nice pictures

Thanks.

lol that dude was totally naked...!!!! too bad he isn't hot lol

Very nice shots :)

Great pictures :)

Thanks guys one nice feature to living in the States is that there is always a place to go for snow or sun all year long.

awesome thread. Love the Philly pictures.

Yeah Philadelphia is quite the photogenic city. It looks a lot more like Manhattan than Miami does. When people say Miami is NYC with palm trees I think they have no clue.

Great Pics Philadweller :okay:

wow what a stark contrast between the northeast and miami! are those people really naked? i've seen topless women on south beach but not full-on naked!

Seeing those pictures of New York and Philly make me want to catch the next flight........... gorgeous shots!

Some of the NYC pictures you took were from the corner of where my aunt used to live and it makes me miss it a lot. Where is that pink tunnel thing in Ft. Lauderdale and how can I get to that beach from West Palm Beach?

Great shots of the NE!

Nice post. That nude beach is Haulover Beach, I used to go there all the time when I used to work in Aventura. Nice to see you threw in a pic of Fort Lauderdale too.

The pink tunnel thing is in Haulover Beach in Sunny Isles, Miami.

nice pics.

I'll take Miami at this time of year, but Philly and NY the rest of the time.
Good shots.

European Version

London

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Paris

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Benidorm

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:lol:

Love the pix, Philadweller. Some of the Miami ones are quite nice. ;)

Jaeger that was good. London and Paris are much bigger than Philly.
or....
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane/Gold Coast.
or...
Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver.

Jaeger that was good. London and Paris are much bigger than Philly.
or....
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane/Gold Coast.
or...
Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver.

I don't think Philadelphia is compared to Sydney or Melbourne in anyway, they blow Philly out of the water.

Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto also do the same.

But Philly is still an awesome city.

I don't think Philadelphia is compared to Sydney or Melbourne in anyway, they blow Philly out of the water.

:lol:

I don't know if any of the cities you listed blow Philadelphia out of the water. Some may certainly be "better" depending on your criteria and tastes, but I don't think any obviously outclass Philly.

:lol:

I don't know if any of the cities you listed blow Philadelphia out of the water. Some may certainly be "better" depending on your criteria and tastes, but I don't think any obviously outclass Philly.

You know whats funny, you probaly know nothing on either Sydney or Melbourne, thats the funny part. The other good part is, you probaly have never even been to these cities, or for that matter, Australia. I have been to Philly, it doesn't even hold a light to Melbourne or Sydney. The diversity and power that these two cities hold is much greater than Philadelphia. Lets not forget, Sydney and Melbourne are also GROWING cities.

Like I stated previously, I don't think there is anything wrong with Phildelphia, but it can't even be matched with Sydney or Melbourne. Sorry... :ohno:

Jaeger that was good. London and Paris are much bigger than Philly.
or....
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane/Gold Coast.
or...
Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver.

Okay -

London - New York

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Warsaw - Philadelphia

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Benidorm

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3267/2559041804_7b93ca78a1_b.jpg

You know whats funny, you probaly know nothing on either Sydney or Melbourne, thats the funny part. The other good part is, you probaly have never even been to these cities, or for that matter, Australia. I have been to Philly, it doesn't even hold a light to Melbourne or Sydney. The diversity and power that these two cities hold is much greater than Philadelphia. Lets not forget, Sydney and Melbourne are also GROWING cities.

Like I stated previously, I don't think there is anything wrong with Phildelphia, but it can't even be matched with Sydney or Melbourne. Sorry... :ohno:

I really don't want to get into a city v. city...but I've been to both Melbourne and Sydney and just don't see it. Both are wonderful cities but out of Philadelphia's league? I just don't see it.

You made three claims in that post: 1) More Diversity in the australian cities, 2) more "power, 3) they're growing.

1) You may be right about diversity. Philadelphia is not currently quite as big a draw for immigrants -- but is certainly a diverse city. While African-Americans hold a ~43% majority and Irish/Italians and other European-Americans make up another 40%, there are sizeable Puerto Rican, Korean, Chinese, Cambodian, Vietnamese, Mexican, Russian, West African, Brazilian, etc. communities. Do the Australian cities outmatch Philly in terms of diversity? It depends on how much emphasis you put on recent immigrants vs. established ethnic communites....

2) Power. I don't see how this is close. From an economic standpoint, Philadelphia's Gross Metropolitan Product ranks 9th in the world (4th in the U.S.) and is projected to rise to 8th by 2020. Toronto ranks 21st (projected to drop to 22), Sydney ranks 26th (projected to drop out of top 30), and none of your other cities are in the top 30.

3) Growth. I'm not sure what the rate of growth is in the cities you listed, but while Philadelphia proper is losing population (at a slowing rate) the Urban Area is indeed still growing. And is indeed still more populous than any city you listed with the possible exception of Toronto.

I really don't want to get into a city v. city...but I've been to both Melbourne and Sydney and just don't see it. Both are wonderful cities but out of Philadelphia's league? I just don't see it.

You made three claims in that post: 1) More Diversity in the australian cities, 2) more "power, 3) they're growing.

1) You may be right about diversity. Philadelphia is not currently quite as big a draw for immigrants -- but is certainly a diverse city. While African-Americans hold a ~43% majority and Irish/Italians and other European-Americans make up another 40%, there are sizeable Puerto Rican, Korean, Chinese, Cambodian, Vietnamese, Mexican, Russian, West African, Brazilian, etc. communities. Do the Australian cities outmatch Philly in terms of diversity? It depends on how much emphasis you put on recent immigrants vs. established ethnic communites....

2) Power. I don't see how this is close. From an economic standpoint, Philadelphia's Gross Metropolitan Product ranks 9th in the world (4th in the U.S.) and is projected to rise to 8th by 2020. Toronto ranks 21st (projected to drop to 22), Sydney ranks 26th (projected to drop out of top 30), and none of your other cities are in the top 30.

3) Growth. I'm not sure what the rate of growth is in the cities you listed, but while Philadelphia proper is losing population (at a slowing rate) the Urban Area is indeed still growing. And is indeed still more populous than any city you listed with the possible exception of Toronto.


Ok, but world class city standpoint, Melbourne and Sydney still get much more attention, and yes Philadelphia is very underrated, but so is the case for Melbourne.

Where is your information in question two, I would love to see that.

I just don't see how anyone could compare Sydney and Melbourne to Philadelphia.

Philadelphia may have more people than Sydney or Melbourne, but these two Aussie cities sure do have a lot more life in them as far as street activity, pedestrian traffic, and construction goes.

Heres some info on our population in Australia:

http://www.abs.gov.au/websitedbs/D3310114.nsf/home/home?opendocument?utm_id=GT

Where is your information in question two, I would love to see that.

I just don't see how anyone could compare Sydney and Melbourne to Philadelphia.

Philadelphia may have more people than Sydney or Melbourne, but these two Aussie cities sure do have a lot more life in them as far as street activity, pedestrian traffic, and construction goes.



1) Here's the study on city GDPs: http://www.pwc.com/tr/tur/ins-sol/publ/largestcityeconomies_march07.pdf

2) Is there really that much more construction in Sydney/Melbourne than Philly? Philly just finished the Comcast Center (975 feet) and approved the plans for the American Commerce Center (1,510 feet). Scores of other smaller buildings have been recently completed or are under construction as we speak. The Residences at the Ritz (518 feet) is wrapping up construction as we speak. For a full rundown of the projects in philly, check out Phillyskyline.com.

3) Street activity and pedestrian traffic are subjective...I wouldn't know how to quantify them. But I don't really see the distinction you're talking about here either. The pictures in the original post to this thread seem to show streets packed with people despite the cold.

Philadelphia often doesn't get "World City" status like Sydney because Philly is in the shadows of both New York City and Washington D.C.--which dwarf it in national importance. The city would be held in higher regard it if was located elsewhere in the country. I also would argue that Philadelphia still is notoriously viewed as being crime ridden (which it is)---more similar to Detroit then Boston (which is wrong).

As for diversity, I think its an overrated statistic on these forums. Toronto, Dubai, and Miami are supposedly the most diverse cities in the world--but would you consider them to be superior cities to Tokyo, Seoul, or Hong Kong? I wouldn't, despite them being less ethincally diverse.

I hope you don't mind philadweller--but this is my favorite picture of Philadelphia.
http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/5089/170283213374d54b3ad7oqn2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

You know whats funny, you probaly know nothing on either Sydney or Melbourne, thats the funny part. The other good part is, you probaly have never even been to these cities, or for that matter, Australia. I have been to Philly, it doesn't even hold a light to Melbourne or Sydney. The diversity and power that these two cities hold is much greater than Philadelphia. Lets not forget, Sydney and Melbourne are also GROWING cities.

Like I stated previously, I don't think there is anything wrong with Phildelphia, but it can't even be matched with Sydney or Melbourne. Sorry... :ohno:

Its good to be king.

You realize you are exposing yourselves when you need continents to compare to a country.


Take the entire urban area into account and Sydney and Brisbane are kids play in comparison to Philadelphia.

Jaegar if you want to play,places on the map, top this Europe vs USA you are going to get your doors blown off.



City/Urban area Country GDP in US$bn (2005)

http://www.citymayors.com/statistics/richest-cities-2005.html

1 Tokyo Japan 1191
2 New York USA 1133
3 Los Angeles USA 639
4 Chicago USA 460
5 Paris France 460
6 London UK 452
7 Osaka/Kobe Japan 341
8 Mexico City Mexico 315
9 Philadelphia USA 312
10 Washington DC USA 299
11 Boston USA 290
12 Dallas/Fort Worth USA 268
13 Buenos Aires Argentina 245
14 Hong Kong China 244
15 San Francisco/Oakland USA 242
16 Atlanta USA 236
17 Houston USA 235
18 Miami USA 231
19 Sao Paulo Brazil 225
20 Seoul South Korea 218
21 Toronto Canada 209
22 Detroit USA 203
23 Madrid Spain 188
24 Seattle USA 186
25 Moscow Russia 181
26 Sydney Australia 172

Guys, please don't turn this photothread into a City vs City. Philly is truly an underrated city and has some amazing historical architecture.

Very interesting thread :okay: When the occasion arises I will visit Philadelphia;)
I have one request. Give me the newest information of Philadelphia urban area (population, area km2) with reference to Miami and Washington urban area. Thx

You know whats funny, you probaly know nothing on either Sydney or Melbourne, thats the funny part. The other good part is, you probaly have never even been to these cities, or for that matter, Australia. I have been to Philly, it doesn't even hold a light to Melbourne or Sydney. The diversity and power that these two cities hold is much greater than Philadelphia. Lets not forget, Sydney and Melbourne are also GROWING cities.

Like I stated previously, I don't think there is anything wrong with Phildelphia, but it can't even be matched with Sydney or Melbourne. Sorry... :ohno:

Maybe I am missing something here but what is with all the Philly hate?

Great photos Philadweller and what kind of individual is so insecure that he/she has to use chamber of commerce photos from London Paris and Benidorm in somebodys photo thread? I mean who does this? Thats the antics of a snot nosed kid. As good of photos as Philladweller produced it was probably 20 degrees F when those pics were taken, the dead of winter in Philly NYC and for someone to copy+ paste a couple of photo shopped images of Paris London is just ridiculous.Unbelievable.

I would add that Philly is a great city in its own right but to be fair you have to include the overall metro as 80% of the wealth and most of the new growth in the Philly area is in its suburbs, that just how it works in the states. 75% of the population in the Philly area live in its suburbs probably 90% of its wealth.In that context the reality of the situation is that the overall urban Philly area blows Brisbane,Sydney,Montreal,Toronto,vancouver out of the water.

If you want to compare Philly to Sydney or Brisbane it should be done on a regional basis,I'm not so sure you would like the results.

Lastly keep in mind that its the middle of winter in Philadlephia,people hibernate in their homes, the streets not so busy. Spring,summer,fall I'm just not seeing the lack of vibrancy,there is plenty of street life in Philadlephia.

People hibernate in most northern countries in winter, including cities like London and Paris.
Winter is just not as welcoming to be out and about.

Its good to be king.

You realize you are exposing yourselves when you need continents to compare to a country.


Take the entire urban area into account and Sydney and Brisbane are kids play in comparison to Philadelphia.

Jaegar if you want to play,places on the map, top this Europe vs USA you are going to get your doors blown off.



City/Urban area Country GDP in US$bn (2005)

http://www.citymayors.com/statistics/richest-cities-2005.html

1 Tokyo Japan 1191
2 New York USA 1133
3 Los Angeles USA 639
4 Chicago USA 460
5 Paris France 460
6 London UK 452
7 Osaka/Kobe Japan 341
8 Mexico City Mexico 315
9 Philadelphia USA 312
10 Washington DC USA 299
11 Boston USA 290
12 Dallas/Fort Worth USA 268
13 Buenos Aires Argentina 245
14 Hong Kong China 244
15 San Francisco/Oakland USA 242
16 Atlanta USA 236
17 Houston USA 235
18 Miami USA 231
19 Sao Paulo Brazil 225
20 Seoul South Korea 218
21 Toronto Canada 209
22 Detroit USA 203
23 Madrid Spain 188
24 Seattle USA 186
25 Moscow Russia 181
26 Sydney Australia 172


I think you just did all the exposing on yourself. Good job mate! Have you been to Australia yet???

Don't get my wrong, I had some good times in Philly, I just don't see what all the hype is about.

No more ruining of this thread... Carry on.

Damn, this thread almost turned ugly. Bottom line is Philadelphia is a big dense historic city with street life year round. I would say it has more street life than most US cities.

I have never been to Australia and I was not comparing the cities to ours specifically. I was making analogies in terms of weather, climate, hierarchy and architecture. I would suspect that Philadelphia is most like Melbourne based on what I've heard and what I've seen. I did not want this to turn into a city vs. city thread at all. I just wanted to share the experience of being in 3 big US cities in 5 days each with their own character.
NYC and Philly are clearly not resort cities. The Gold Coast is and the closest thing Canada has to Miami is Vancouver.

And yes the photo conditions were daunting.

"Don't get my wrong, I had some good times in Philly, I just don't see what all the hype is about."

I guess you have to visit every US city to see how special Philly is. I ask myself that question to certain US cities but will not name them.

Instead of thinking that one city is better than another I tend to think of what makes the city that I am discovering unique.

Nice pics

I think you just did all the exposing on yourself. Good job mate! Have you been to Australia yet???...Im done...carry on



Hold on here. You cant go making false bragadocious claims and then say I'm done.What a hypocrite you are.Let me ask you. What do you know about the Philadelphia region? I apologize Philadweller.

You were the one who started throwing around supercilous claims that Philadlephia gets blown out of the water in comparison to Sydney or Melbourne which is completely erroneous in regards to total urban area of the respective locales.So its probably not wise of you to be so condescending considering the Philadlephia area is wealthier, bigger , with arguably better architecture and culture than Sydney and Melbourne. All the while being sandwiched between the 2 of the most powerful cities on the globe, NYC 80 miles to the N, Washinton DC 125 miles to the S.



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Kansas, that town is Jim Thorpe, PA which is an hour north of Philadelphia. It looks like Manayunk in Philadelphia a bit.

Also, glad that you used my photo (#5) and showed the hills. People think Philadelphia is flat.

People forget that Philadelphia sandwiched between DC and NYC. Baltimore too is part of the filling. Considering the competition, Philly fares well with European tourists.

The biggest problems with Philly is the high crime, declining population, and large amounts of poverty. Plus I read that people in Philly aren't very friendly, but that's rather subjective.

The biggest problems with Philly is the high crime, declining population, and large amounts of poverty. Plus I read that people in Philly aren't very friendly, but that's rather subjective.

It should also be noted that although Philadweller may romanticise about the virtues of Philadelphia, he actually lives in the sunny climes of Fort Lauderdale in Florida.

Furthermore having recently viewed Louis Theoux's recent documentary regarding North Philadelphia, I am inclined to agree with you, that parts of Philadelphia do have real problems relating to violent crime, poverty and subsequent social problems.

Philadelphia certainly has it's share of culture, art galleries and fine architecture, but it always seems to be a city which doesn't have the in your face attitude or blatent boastfullness of many cities not just in the US but throughout the world. Perhaps it's just far too overshadowed by nearby NYC to proclaim it's greatness across the world or perhaps it is often just merely overlooked.










:)

"The biggest problems with Philly is the high crime, declining population, and large amounts of poverty. Plus I read that people in Philly aren't very friendly, but that's rather subjective."

When I first visited Philadelphia I was appalled and delighted at the same time. The crime rate is high on paper but do you really think that there would be so many people on the street walking day and night if it was that terrible? We are not talking Cape Town, Mogadishu or Johannesburg.

Florida feels a lot more dangerous and the same goes with any city that has no pedestrian activity. In the US the most dangerous cities are the most desolate ones.

Philadelphia has a great downtown and surrounding area and there is enough of it to see without having to step foot in a slum.

Although the city is losing population there is major growth in the center. It took me years to fall in love with Philadelphia. When I lived in Boston I used to be intrigued by Philly for its size and location but feared it's sense of lawlessness. It has improved tremendously since the early 1990's.
Philadelphia is a very misunderstood city because geographically it is huge. I spent 12 years in Philly and probably saw 30 percent of the city at best.

Philadelphia is friendly, it is a no BS city so it seems a little crass at times. You really cannot generalize an entire city by a few encounters. Philadelphia was rated the most unnattractive city for people. I don't know there are some hot men and women in Pennsylvania. My attitude is go there for yourself and stop listening to the media.

Hold on here. You cant go making false bragadocious claims and then say I'm done.What a hypocrite you are.Let me ask you. What do you know about the Philadelphia region? I apologize Philadweller.

You were the one who started throwing around supercilous claims that Philadlephia gets blown out of the water in comparison to Sydney or Melbourne which is completely erroneous in regards to total urban area of the respective locales.So its probably not wise of you to be so condescending considering the Philadlephia area is wealthier, bigger , with arguably better architecture and culture than Sydney and Melbourne. All the while being sandwiched between the 2 of the most powerful cities on the globe, NYC 80 miles to the N, Washinton DC 125 miles to the S.



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First off, don't for one second call me a hypocrite when you DO NOT KNOW ME! Second off, you just had to go back, you couldn't let it go, I said I am done because I do not want to ruin this thread, seems like you don't care.

Anyway, I had a good time in Philly, and if you would read my post, I said it was underrated, yes because it is by New York. Same could be said for Melbourne like I previously stated too.

I went to Philly back in the winter or '07 (or your summer). I had a great time, and Philly truly is one my top 5 favourite American cities. I know that is hard to believe by what I am saying, but I just think Melbourne and Sydney hold greater qualities. My favourite American cities were Chicago, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Boston, and of course New York. I loved the architecture in all of these cities, from modern to old, they all had amazing districts throughout the cities, and had very lively CBDs.

I am saying, for a city of Philadelphia's size, I thought I would see more street life going on. I spent about a week there, so I got a good idea of the city. I just don't think it possesses the life that Melbourne and Sydney do.


Philadweller, Philly is a truly great city, and please do not take me the wrong way, it has a beautiful skyline and amazing diversity. It really is on my top five favourite American cities list.

I think that we should take Brisbaner 21 at his word and just get back to appreciating the photo essay, which I did. It is interesting to see how much Miami has changed( haven't been there in 20 years).

Philly sucks, apart of the small downtown they have, nothing else is nice...

"Philly sucks, apart of the small downtown they have, nothing else is nice..."

Well how could you forget Nicetown?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicetown
It's always nice in Nicetown.

Philly sucks, apart of the small downtown they have, nothing else is nice...

Chestnut Hill? Mt. Airy? UC/Powelton/Baltimore Ave? NoLibs and Fishtown? Queen Village, Bella Vista, and the rest of South Philly? Fairmount?

And the "downtown" itself (vine to south, river to river) isn't really that small. Third largest "downtown" population in the U.S. after NY and Chicago...

Spruce Hill, Manayunk, Girard Estates, East Falls, Roxborough?

"I am saying, for a city of Philadelphia's size, I thought I would see more street life going on. I spent about a week there, so I got a good idea of the city. I just don't think it possesses the life that Melbourne and Sydney do."

In the Summer people flock to the Jersey Shore. Autumn is nice when all the college kids are back and Spring is fantastic when everyone comes out of hibernation.

"It should also be noted that although Philadweller may romanticise about the virtues of Philadelphia, he actually lives in the sunny climes of Fort Lauderdale in Florida. "

Well I did live in Philadelphia for 12 years but moved here for a job and love. Both have fizzled out. Now I am used to the warm weather and this really sucks becuase I would love to move to Chicago. When I was up north for the holidays people seemed jealous that I lived somewhere warm. Winters do suck even thought many of the best world cities experience them. Anyone that says they love Winter is a masochist.

"It should also be noted that although Philadweller may romanticise about the virtues of Philadelphia, he actually lives in the sunny climes of Fort Lauderdale in Florida. "

Well I did live in Philadelphia for 12 years but moved here for a job and love. Both have fizzled out. Now I am used to the warm weather and this really sucks becuase I would love to move to Chicago. When I was up north for the holidays people seemed jealous that I lived somewhere warm. Winters do suck even thought many of the best world cities experience them. Anyone that says they love Winter is a masochist.

I remember you saying in previous posts that Boston was a nightmare in winter when you lived there. Your native New York was hardly warm in winter, and even Philly is Chilly.

Whilst there is nothing wrong with preferring the sunshine, it does make your argument for living all year round in the Northern Regions of the US slightly less valid.

Still I suppose there are plenty of warmer winter cities to explore and live in within the USA.


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:)

Winter is crap in every Northern city, but it also gets boring in a hot Southern clime where the temperatures never change. The change of season is quite wonderful, even if Winter is too long.

Stop dissing Philly...I plan on moving there.

It's one of the greatest cities in the United States and is a major historic center + former 2nd city of the British Empire.

"Stop dissing Philly...I plan on moving there.

It's one of the greatest cities in the United States and is a major historic center + former 2nd city of the British Empire."

Cool. I miss it.

Stop dissing Philly...I plan on moving there.

It's one of the greatest cities in the United States and is a major historic center + former 2nd city of the British Empire.

I am always very dubious when someone claims their city was the second city of the British Empire, as this claim has been made by numerous cities including Liverpool, Glasgow, Dublin and Calcutta. Given that the most important trading country in the British Empire was India, known as the Jewel in the Crown, and much of the industry that generated the Empire was situated in the North of England where the industrial revolution first occurred, I doubt very much that Philadelphia could claim it was the second city of Empire. It was no doubt an important city and capital for a period of time. As for discussing the reality of Phillies cities weather, it is hardly dissing it. Philadelphia is colder than Florida which is why Philadweller moved, thats a reality. :)

Jaeger I don't think those comments were directed at you. They were directed at Brisbaner.

I heard that Philadelphia was the second largest English speaking city in the world at one time. It was also the largest US city at one time too.

It was the second largest city in the British Empire at one time, and that is a fact.

People who are dissing Philly should take all the hate and put it in a box, because this is a photothread and not the place to share it. Philadweller has provided us with some amazing photos and does not have to defend himself or Philadelphia. Lighten up, folks!

Xzmattzx did a photospread on Jim Thorpe, PA not long ago.

Those 3 cities in this thread are truly amazing! More pics/shots please :cheers:

Maybe I am missing something here but what is with all the Philly hate?

Great photos Philadweller and what kind of individual is so insecure that he/she has to use chamber of commerce photos from London Paris and Benidorm in somebodys photo thread? I mean who does this? Thats the antics of a snot nosed kid. As good of photos as Philladweller produced it was probably 20 degrees F when those pics were taken, the dead of winter in Philly NYC and for someone to copy+ paste a couple of photo shopped images of Paris London is just ridiculous.Unbelievable.

I would add that Philly is a great city in its own right but to be fair you have to include the overall metro as 80% of the wealth and most of the new growth in the Philly area is in its suburbs, that just how it works in the states. 75% of the population in the Philly area live in its suburbs probably 90% of its wealth.In that context the reality of the situation is that the overall urban Philly area blows Brisbane,Sydney,Montreal,Toronto,vancouver out of the water.

If you want to compare Philly to Sydney or Brisbane it should be done on a regional basis,I'm not so sure you would like the results.

Lastly keep in mind that its the middle of winter in Philadlephia,people hibernate in their homes, the streets not so busy. Spring,summer,fall I'm just not seeing the lack of vibrancy,there is plenty of street life in Philadlephia.


I totally agree on everything you say here.

But I have to add to this. The wealthy people doesn't seem to care about the city of Philadelphia. They have created other business centers outside of the city, created better shopping in malls, better and probably newish housing than in the city, the schools are much better, they seem to be satisfy not to set foot in the city. Some of those wealthy suburbans people don't interact with their city as much as the people in Australia do in those two Australian cities. Philadelphia has the same issues as many American cities have. Where the wealthy and the middle class seem to forget or abandon their central cities. But like it was mention already, there is a new activity in the center of these cities lately, with new construction and retail. As a result, Philadelphia has a beautiful skyline. But the rest of the city feels old, dirty and poorer. Except for a few pockets, like Manayunk. Other cities in the world did not experience such abandonment of their central cities as much as American cities did. But I am really glad that Philadelphia is getting some new attention lately though. :)

"But I have to add to this. The wealthy people doesn't seem to care about the city of Philadelphia."

This is half true. It is the rich suburbanites from NJ, NY and PA and expats from NYC which have helped Center City flourish. The Main Liners pretty much stay out in the Main Line. Center City has plenty of rich folk that prefer the urban way of life and sneer at the King of Prussia Mall and srpawl. Detroit would be a better example of rich suburbanites that won't help their city. Philadelphia has a very high homeownership rate by the way.

^^ Yeah but compared to the huge wealth in the area, the wealth coming to Philadelphia is very low. Most of Philadelphia home prices is still cheap. Even during the boom time. Except for the center of the city and some surrounding areas, the rest of the city keeps loosing population, immigrants numbers are still low and crime still is high. The only thing that makes Philadelphia looks good is its vibrant center. Which is nicer compare to many other American cities. But the rest of the city does not look too good. I even think that Manayunk is overrated. A nice vibrant main street but that is about it. The surrounding area is nothing to rave about.

Also remember that I was comparing it to the Australian cities, not to other American cities. And yes Detroit is probably the worst of them all.

It was the second largest city in the British Empire at one time, and that is a fact.

People who are dissing Philly should take all the hate and put it in a box, because this is a photothread and not the place to share it. Philadweller has provided us with some amazing photos and does not have to defend himself or Philadelphia. Lighten up, folks!

Xzmattzx did a photospread on Jim Thorpe, PA not long ago.

I am sorry Taller, Better but when was Philly the second largest city???

The first is that the population of Philadelphia in 1776 was all of 30,000 people, and the population of the entire country was about 2,500,000.

By 1744 Calcutta had a population of well over 100,000 and this had increased to around 120,000 by 1776.

Philadelphia was without doubt a major city and a capital city, however the Empire included many very populous places such as India, and even many British Cities of the time were gearing up towards the industrial revolution and the subsequent move from a rural economy to a city based industrial one.

http://www.globusz.com/ebooks/IndustrialRevolution/00000012.htm



:)

I'm hesitant to get into this, as discussions of populations generally lead to argy-bargies, but it is such an interesting subject that I have a hard time not investigating it a bit!! I will admit I am no expert in history, and I have just gleaned a few facts by Googling, so please take this in the friendly spirit of discussion! :) If I am wrong please tell me so that I know the true facts. It is widely quoted that Philly was the second largest city in the British Empire from around 1750's to 1774:
" 6 Philadelphia was chosen as the meeting place because of its central location and accessibility and also because of its size and importance. In 1774, it had an estimated population of approximately 40,000 making it the second largest city in the British Empire. (ibid., p. 13.)" source:US Department of State Office of the Historian:
http://www.history.state.gov/departmenthistory/buildings/section2


It might be very true that by 1744 Calcutta had a population of well over 100,000 and this had increased to around 120,000 by 1776, but India was not part of the British Empire until after the Revolt of 1857 (also called Sepoy Mutiny). Before that time the English East India Company was involved in trading and many skirmishes in India, but the Company's conquest of India was completed in 1857, when the country was first declared as a part of British Empire.

I suspect Dublin was larger than Philly during that period, but (and I am no expert on this) I believe the Kingdom of Ireland merged with the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1800. I think (but may be wrong) that prior to that time there were 16th century Plantations of Ireland, run by English colonists, that predated being part of the British Empire.

I may have muddled all of this up, and perhaps there is a historian out there! In any case, during that half century Philly was the most important city in America, only to be surpassed by NYC after 1800. :cheers:


Also, by 1815 London was the largest city in the world, and had a surprisingly large population by 1760 of 750,000. By
1815 this had swelled to perhaps 1.4 million, which was pretty massive for the day.

I'm hesitant to get into this, as discussions of populations generally lead to argy-bargies, but it is such an interesting subject that I have a hard time not investigating it a bit!! I will admit I am no expert in history, and I have just gleaned a few facts by Googling, so please take this in the friendly spirit of discussion! :) If I am wrong please tell me so that I know the true facts. It is widely quoted that Philly was the second largest city in the British Empire from around 1750's to 1774:
" 6 Philadelphia was chosen as the meeting place because of its central location and accessibility and also because of its size and importance. In 1774, it had an estimated population of approximately 40,000 making it the second largest city in the British Empire. (ibid., p. 13.)" source:US Department of State Office of the Historian:
http://www.history.state.gov/departmenthistory/buildings/section2


It might be very true that by 1744 Calcutta had a population of well over 100,000 and this had increased to around 120,000 by 1776, but India was not part of the British Empire until after the Revolt of 1857 (also called Sepoy Mutiny). Before that time the English East India Company was involved in trading and many skirmishes in India, but the Company's conquest of India was completed in 1857, when the country was first declared as a part of British Empire.

I suspect Dublin was larger than Philly during that period, but (and I am no expert on this) I believe the Kingdom of Ireland merged with the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1800. I think (but may be wrong) that prior to that time there were 16th century Plantations of Ireland, run by English colonists, that predated being part of the British Empire.

I may have muddled all of this up, and perhaps there is a historian out there! In any case, during that half century Philly was the most important city in America, only to be surpassed by NYC after 1800. :cheers:


Also, by 1815 London was the largest city in the world, and had a surprisingly large population by 1760 of 750,000. By
1815 this had swelled to perhaps 1.4 million, which was pretty massive for the day.

In 1702, the British completed the construction of old Fort William,, which was used to station its troops and as a regional base. Kolkata (then Calcutta) was declared a Presidency City, and later became the headquarters of the Bengal Presidency.

Faced with frequent skirmishes with French forces, in 1756 the British began to upgrade their fortifications. When protests against the militarisation by the Nawab of Bengal Siraj-Ud-Daulah went unheeded he attacked and captured Fort William, leading to the infamous Black Hole incident.

A force of Company sepoys and British troops led by Robert Clive recaptured the city the following year. Kolkata (calcutta) was named the capital of British India in 1772. It was during this period that the marshes surrounding the city were drained and the government area was laid out along the banks of the Hooghly River. Richard Wellesley, the Governor General between 1797–1805, was largely responsible for the growth of the city and its public architecture which led to the description of Kolkata as "The City of Palaces". The city was a centre of the British East India Company's opium trade during the 18th and 19th century; locally produced opium was sold at auction in Kolkata, to be shipped to China.

Furthermore British cities such as Bristol had large populations, Bristol's population was 100,000 by 1769 (Macpherson's Annals of Commerce (1769)), Liverpool had a population of between 30,000 and 40,000 and Manchester had a population of around 30,000. Bristol's rapid growth was due to the slave trade, until it was finally oulawed with the introduction of the 1833 Slavery Abolition Act.

http://www.globusz.com/ebooks/IndustrialRevolution/00000012.htm

http://www.scribd.com/doc/6543652/Arnold-Toynbee-Lectures-on-the-Industrial-Revolution




:)

"Also remember that I was comparing it to the Australian cities, not to other American cities. And yes Detroit is probably the worst of them all."

Australia has about as many major cities as California. There are so many major cities in the US that it is a miracle if 10 of them are nice cities.

West Philadelphia has beautiful areas and so does Chestnut Hill. South Philly is fine.

What is with all this negativity to Philadelphia? There are far more troubled, crime ridden and declining world and US cities in this forum which get a high amount of praise. Just because a city is losing population does not mean it is going down the tubes. Philadelphia's infrastructure was built for a city of 5 million and its downtown has the 3rd highest residential population in the US. what more can I say?

Found this...
"A commercial, educational, and cultural center, the city was once the second-largest in the British Empire[2] (after London), and the social and geographical center of the original 13 American colonies. During the 18th century, it eclipsed New York City in political and social importance, with Benjamin Franklin taking a large role in Philadelphia's early rise to prominence. It was in this city that some of the ideas, and subsequent actions, gave birth to the American Revolution and American Independence, making Philadelphia a centerpiece of early American history."

But the rest of the city feels old, dirty and poorer. Except for a few pockets, like Manayunk. Other cities in the world did not experience such abandonment of their central cities as much as American cities did. But I am really glad that Philadelphia is getting some new attention lately though. :)


I agree with your overall premise.Admittedly Philadlephia is a shell of what it should be but theres more to Philly than Center City,Manayunk and the rest (dirty + poor your description).Despite its problems you are way too harsh in your criticism,

University City + West Philly is just outstanding(Cedar park,Spruce Hill,Powelton,Clark Park,Overbrook Farms,StJoes,City Line)CHOP,Drexel and U Penn have about $5 B dollars worth of construction ongoing in University City.

NW Philly ranges from excellent to as good as it gets in Chestnut Hill. (Chestnut Hill,Andorra,East Falls,Roxborough,Mount Airy,West Mount Airy,).

NE Philly has about 250,000 middle class people.

South Philly is still very solid especially (East of Broad) gives you a glimpse of what this city must of have been like in heydey with all the different ethnic european enclaves. Packer park down by the stadiums is fantastic area to live. Its amazingly well kept.


The riverwards are doing OK as well. Northern Liberties,Fishtown,Port richmond,Tacony those are solid working class neighborhoods.

I would break down Philadelphia as a 1/3 world class Center City-Chestnut Hill-University City-West Mount Airy-East Falls.

1/3 solid middle class -Most of the neighborhoods mentioned above.

1/3 hopeless/unsalvageable in our lifetimes.North Philly-SW Philly-far West Philly-

"But I have to add to this. The wealthy people doesn't seem to care about the city of Philadelphia."

This is half true. It is the rich suburbanites from NJ, NY and PA and expats from NYC which have helped Center City flourish. The Main Liners pretty much stay out in the Main Line. Center City has plenty of rich folk that prefer the urban way of life and sneer at the King of Prussia Mall and srpawl. Detroit would be a better example of rich suburbanites that won't help their city. Philadelphia has a very high homeownership rate by the way.

The wealthy PA suburban counties of Philly are kind of in their own little world. South Jersey seems to have a much better bond with Philadlephia in comparison and yes alot of NYC transplants end up in Philadlephia both on the high end(Center City) and low end(N Philly).

Great shots, especially Philadelphia that has a really nice historical center!

thanks.

Isn't the new mayor of Philadelphia trying to create a regional cooperation?