Traveling to New York City for the very first time might result in feeling daunted since there are endless busy streets to navigate, the city’s wide-ranging public transport network to learn about, innumerable tourist attractions to visit, and a plethora of eating options to choose from. The good news is that with adequate planning it is possible for travelers to efficiently explore the city without spending too much money in the process.
Choosing an Airport and Reaching Manhattan
Those looking for a more extravagant way to arrive can use helicopter transfers from JFK and Newark Airports, which are bound to awe with their splendid aerial views of the city. The guide above estimates that the price for this service will be approximately $150 per person plus potential luggage fees.
Where To Stay In New York City
Midtown Manhattan serves as a great location for tourists visiting for the first time because most attractions are located nearby. Nevertheless, hotels in this district tend to be expensive.
Cheap lodging seekers can consider pod hotels while on their solo trips. Moxy is a good option for travelers searching for stylish accommodation with bars, restaurants, and other amenities. For those looking for a luxurious stay, The Peninsula located on Fifth Avenue has excellent services and options for dining, as well as a spa and an all-year-round pool.
It is advisable to book a hotel instead of using Airbnb rentals, as the latter remain highly limited according to New York City’s law.
It’s quite easy to get around in New York City using the subway. A usual ticket costs $3 and all subway services run 24/7. People can rely on either Google Maps or Apple Maps to locate the subway entrances, locate the necessary train lines, and choose the exits.
The OMNY system allows the passengers to use their compatible smartphones or bank cards to pay for their ride. After spending $35 on subway fares during the week people can ride free for the remainder of the week. People traveling from abroad should also make sure that they have internet access before arriving in the city.
What periods of the year are best for visiting New York City?
Budget travelers are strongly advised to visit New York in the months of January to March. Thanks to low temperatures, fewer tourists will be visiting places of interest and visiting theaters in this period, which is great for those who would like to pay less for hotels, meals, and tickets.
Arriving in New York, it is important to have appropriate clothing because the weather can change a lot over the year.
Essential Cultural Etiquette Tips
In America, tips play a vital role in the culture of eating and service. The guide presents that 20% is the standard tip applied in restaurants as well as taxis, drivers and guides. Therefore, planning one’s order beforehand and taking care of other people can improve the quality of interactions in New York.
Top Attractions
Be sure to watch a Broadway show, take a quick peek at Times Square, and explore Central Park.
To enjoy breathtaking vistas, visit Top of the Rock and Summit One Vanderbilt instead of the Empire State Building observation deck. Don’t miss a chance to enjoy roof-top bars, cruises along the harbor with the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, and great museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, and the American Museum of Natural History.
And finally, make sure to enjoy the local dishes. Travelers need to taste some of the most popular local foods, including pizza, hot dogs, bagels, and deli sandwiches.
Thus, well-planned travel gives visitors a chance to experience New York City’s landmarks, culture, and food for an affordable price.
