New York City is undoubtedly one of the most alluring destinations in the world, with its landmarks, shopping, entertainment options, and buzzing neighborhoods. That being said, not every popular attraction or travel activity will ensure a pleasant experience. Some places can become overcrowded or overpriced or can be dangerous, making it important for visitors to plan ahead.
Here are some things that travelers should consider skipping for a more pleasant and memorable trip to New York City:
- Taking the Staten Island Ferry Just for the View of the Statue of Liberty.
The Staten Island ferry is usually recommended as a free way to see the Statue of Liberty. That being said, it takes up to two hours round trip and only gives you a couple of minutes to actually see the statue up close.
Instead, visitors can view the statue from the outdoor deck of the ferry terminal in Manhattan, or they can opt for a private cruise with Classic Harbor Line, which offers more comfortable seating and closer views of the landmark, and even includes cocktails and snacks on board!
Travelers should be wary of questionable vendors selling the Statue of Liberty or ferry tickets at the terminal in Manhattan.
- Taking the Subway Late at Night
Even though New York City’s subway is a useful means of transport, late-night rides can be unpredictable. Trains can be infrequent, delayed, and altered.
Travelers should be aware that traveling in a deserted carriage can raise safety concerns. Those who can afford it can use Uber or Lyft services for transportation while budget travelers can use local buses, which guarantee presence of a conductor throughout the journey.
- Not Being Aware of Local Crime Statistics
New York is a city with numerous lively neighborhoods but levels of crime differ. In order to stay safe when visiting culturally rich neighborhoods, it is advisable to check crime maps before visiting.
- Exchanging Currency in Tourist-Centric Stores
Currency exchange points might be placed all over town, but they sometimes don’t offer the best deals for exchange or might even charge hidden fees. Travelers who wish to receive or exchange money need to check the available options before making any transactions.
As per the report, Remitly is a good option for transferring money abroad, with guaranteed delivery and fee structure.
- Visiting Crowded Parades Without Any Preparation
The parades in New York attract large crowds, which sometimes results in highly uncomfortable and even dangerous conditions. It is difficult for visitors to move freely, while pickpocketing becomes an issue in crowded areas.
Also, the Thanksgiving Parade requires visitors to prepare everything beforehand since they will need to come the day before to secure a good place for watching the event. Also, there are no toilets available nearby.
- Ringing in the New Year at Times Square
Although this New Year’s Eve tradition is broadcasted around the world, going to Times Square on New Year’s Eve can truly be a nightmare. The place is packed with hundreds of thousands of people, and making one’s way through the cold from one restroom to the next can be quite a challenge due to the rules and restrictions that people must comply with when attending the event.
Once people come to the designated waiting area, there’s no way to get out of it, as leaving may make people lose their spots. The celebration may be watched comfortably on TV or from a hotel room with a view of the ball drop.
- Taking Inconsiderate Photos at the 9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial is an important memorial site honoring all victims of the September 11 attacks. While photos are welcome in the memorial, it is not acceptable to act inappropriately when taking pictures.
It is crucial to pause for a while in order to think and pay tribute to the dead.
- Excessive Time Spent in Times Square
Although Times Square is famous for its unique vibe and colorful billboards, spending too much time there is not a good idea. This area is characterized by costly eateries, overpriced tourist gifts, and many services aimed at tourists.
For most tourists, taking pictures and watching a Broadway musical are enough motives to visit.
By refraining from making some typical travel mistakes, tourists will be able to enjoy their stay in New York City.
