Life & Times: Six Times Square Vendors

Last year saw a major jump in overall NYC tourism — nearly 49 million guests overall, seeing record numbers of both domestic and international guests. Even with thwarted plot against these guests, by an intrepid vendor mind you, Mayor Bloomberg still believes 50 million yearly visitors is within reach by 2012.

With more than 26 million annual visitors to Times Square, who’s catering to these masses — seeking entertainment, activities and escape?  Well, there are literally thousands of part-time vendors, ticket sellers, merchants, artists and entrepreneurs all biding to capitalize on each of the hundreds-of-thousands of employees, tourists, and additional passersby every day.

Life & Times: Six Times Square Vendors

Six vendors in Times Square chat briefly about who they are and how they came to work at the ‘Crossroads of the World’ — relying on the over 26 million annual tourists as a source of income… and intrigue.

Each character is unique, yet they all cite a sour economy as the impetus for braving the elements outdoors to sell tickets for bus tours and comedy shows, original art and photography.

They all share the ability to engage with others and genuinely enjoy the hundreds of brief interactions with people from around the world every day of the year.

Here are six quick conversations with Carlos, Cureel, Fernando, Joel, Roderique and Saylor.

Carlos //  This is Carlos. He sells graffiti adorned clothing and other original pieces of art. Listen as his discuses his inspirations and broader passions he one day hopes to pursue.

Cureel //  Meet Cureel, a student from Russia who is using his passion for photography to make money on the side while he studies in New York.

Fernando //  Fernando is an interesting character. He’s a Veteran and has traveled quite extensively, so its little wonder why he gravitated toward the tourism industry for a source of income.

Joel //  Joel greets guests with a furry hat upon his head and a giant smile across his face.He loves comedy and found selling tickets to tourists a perfect employment outlet… thanks to Craigslist.

Roderique //  Roderique is West African immigrant who helps facilitate bus tours in the heart of Times Square.  He’s currently in school to acquire a professional trade.

Saylor //  Saylor was forced into finding a job by his girlfriend, but he’s happy she did. He says that even after 20 years of steady employment, he’s enjoying this foray into selling comedy show tickets and interacting with many different people.