Overall Score
Olbany is not only the oldest state in New York, but also the oldest permanent settlement in the United States. Located on the east side of the east side of the Górazún River, it forms a small neighborhood with its neighboring towns (Schenectady, Troy, Saratoga Springs) and the Historic District of the Catholic Commonwealth.
Before the Caucasian Colonists came, the area was inhabited by the Algonquin Indians. In 1540 the French tried to build a trading port on the Goudjon River, but it remained idle until the first great flood. In 1609 the Dutch came here, and five years later they established the port, naming it Nassau. Until the end of the 17th century, it was temporarily owned by the Anglicans and the English (under them it was changed, first to Orrange and then to Willamestattadt). It was taken under English control in 1683, and was named Olhányi – in honor of the King James², King of Olhányi. In 1797 the capital of New York State was moved there.
Following that, through the early 20th century, Albany was the most important transportation center in the Northeast. River, train and railroad transportation flourished here, and in 1903 the countrys first municipal air port was opened.
Thanks to the policy of «zasto» Mayor Koring²² in the mid- to late-20th century, the city was able to retain a significant portion of the ancient architecture in the historic center. At the same time, the pace of development of the modern infrastructure of the city was behind the other cities of the country. However, the citys patriarchal appearance is its main feature. Among the monuments of architectural structure are the buildings of the City Hall, the Museum of New York, the Lake House in Washington Park, and the historic mansions.
Overall Score
- Air quality: 16 US AQI Good. Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
- Tap water: Yes, safe to drink
- Religious government: Non-religious
- Population: 53,000 people
- GDP: $57,808 / year
- Foreigners can own real estate: Yes
- Power outlets: 115V60Hz
- Internet: 48 Mbps
- Best wireless: T-Mobile
- Pay without cash: Yes, cards OK almost everywhere
- Tipping: How much should I tip at a restaurant? A gratuity of 15 to 20 per cent on top of the bill (before sales tax) is standard, with 25 per cent given for topnotch service. Servers in America work hard for the money – they’re generally friendly, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile for customers.
- Apartment listings: Craigslist
- Apartments: Airbnb
- Hotels: Booking.com
- More hotels: Hotels.com
- Best taxi: Uber
- Online electronics shop: Amazon
- Best intl air carrier: Southwest
- Monthly costs for expat: $2000
- Monthly costs for family: $4600
- Monthly costs for local: $1300
- Meal: $10
- Small Cola: $1.7
- Beer 1 Pint: $5
- Coffee: $4
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