Are New York, Paris, and London the Tackiest Alpha Cities?

When people talk about major global cities, they often mention the likes of New York, Paris, and London as 'alpha cities.' But why leave other cities off the list, such as Los Angeles, Miami, Sydney, New Delhi, Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, Prague, Moscow, Bangkok, or Beijing? Is it justified to only choose a select few as 'alpha' cities?

According to some, the tackiness of these cities is a legitimate concern. Las Vegas is highlighted as the tackiest city, despite rapid growth and development. However, the author is skeptical that any of the so-called 'alpha cities' can be considered tacky, each possessing unique attributes and charm.

Paris: The Least Tacky, But Filthiest

Of the three cities in question - New York, Paris, and London - Paris is noted as being the least tacky but also the filthiest. Despite its iconic landmarks, Paris still struggles with cleanliness issues. London is positioned in the middle, while New York City (NYC) is deemed to have 'everything' - even the gaudiest and tackiest elements.

Defining Tacky

To understand the concept of 'tacky,' let's explore the term further. A French writer famously appreciated dining at the Eiffel Tower because it was the only place in Paris where he didn't see the view obstructed by the tower itself. In contrast, London's contemporary icon, the London Eye, has drawn criticism, with its golden golden tackiness being a notable feature. Similarly, the West End Theater District in London has become increasingly tacky over the years.

Iconic Landmarks and Tacky Elements

Despite their attractions, iconic landmarks like the Disneyland Paris and the Trump Tower in New York City have their detractors. The West End Theater District in London, once a vibrant and charming area, became overrun with tackiness when the original buildings were replaced by the Forum Les Halles in 1971.

Fast food places and metro stations are often considered tacky, while tattoo parlors have a reputation for being tacky. However, these elements are not unique to the 'alpha' cities. Fast food chains and subway stations can be found in every major city, and tattoo parlors are a global phenomenon.

Despite the presence of tackiness, these cities continue to attract millions of visitors each year. They serve as magnets due to their offerings, which go far beyond tacky elements. Cities like Reno, Las Vegas, Torremolinos, and Cancun can be seen as prime examples of places that thrive on their unique characteristics, including some that might be considered tacky.

To conclude, while tackiness can be a significant issue in these cities, it is important to recognize that they offer a wealth of cultural, historical, and economic benefits. The uniqueness and diversity of these 'alpha cities' make them irreplaceable global hubs.