New York City is well-known for its attractions, food, and events, but new visitors often make mistakes that end up costing them a lot of time and money. As local guide Sarah explains, learning the city’s unstated laws will help travelers have a better time in New York, giving them a new experience beyond what tour guides suggest.
Choose the Right Attractions and Know What To Do
One surprising piece of advice is that it is better to skip the Empire State Building’s observation deck. While the structure is an iconic landmark, visitors cannot actually see it. Top of the Rock, according to Sarah, is therefore the best place to go if one is a fan of skyline views and photography.
Planning may also be important. It’s better not just to plan things but there should be no arrival with no plans. To get the most out of the visit, tourists should book guided tours in advance so that they can find out about the city, see its attractions and change plans if necessary.
Follow New York City’s Subway Etiquette
A subway is the most convenient way of getting around Manhattan, but travelers are also supposed to stick to some rules:
- Be ready to make a payment without money before getting to the turnstile, since the OMNY system allows people to use their phones and bank cards.
- Passengers are to let people disembark before getting on the train.
- People shouldn’t make long glances at people around them, especially strangers.
- If a train compartment is empty when it’s crowded, one should think twice before entering it.
Travelers also need to take care not to stop at the spot in the middle of a crowded pavement to take photos. One should always go aside in order to avoid the hindrances.
Saving Money on Accommodation, Travel, and Packing
Budget-conscious travelers might want to explore options outside Midtown Manhattan for their accommodation. According to Sarah, hotels in Astoria and Long Island City, located in the borough of Queens, are a viable alternative since they are only 20 minutes away from Manhattan.
Renting a car is usually not necessary since the parking rates in Manhattan range from $50 to $100 per day while the subway is a more convenient option. For trips requiring a car, ridesharing or renting a car for a short time may be more practical.
Light packing is also a great idea since New York hotel rooms tend to be small. The people planning to go out in the foot to the evening events may wear a pair of flats and change them at an event they are heading to.
Comprehend the Meaning behind Local Terminology and Pronunciation
New Yorkers are noted for their straightforwardness and busy ways, but they aren’t necessarily unhelpful. Generally, they are open to assisting those who ask questions that were expressed clearly. However, they might interpret an uninvited greeting from a tourist as an attempt to sell them something, or a request for money.
One local peculiarity surprising tourists is how the name of the street Houston is pronounced. In New York it is pronounced to rhyme with the word “how,” as opposed to the pronunciation in Texas which rhymes with “Hugh.”
Tipping should also be considered when discussing eating out. Sarah states that a good tip in a restaurant is considered to be 20% and suggests giving a tip to guides who give tours, beauticians, hairdressers, taxi and Uber drivers.
Savor Local Flavors rather than Chains
While visiting, travelers can choose to dine in local special places instead of familiar chain restaurants.
For travelers who can afford it, Sarah would recommend a harbor cruise as a more advanced alternative than the free Staten Island Ferry. The tour can give tourists more views of the Statue of Liberty, as well as the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline.
In summary, the perfect NYC experience is balancing the preparation and flexibility. If travelers respect the local culture and dress in comfortable shoes, they will surely enjoy their stay.
