So you’re planning to travel to New York City? Are you worried about your time in New York? It’s a good thing you came across this article because I’m about to provide you the most essential travel advice you’ll need before visiting New York City!
Yes, these recommendations come from a New York researcher on a mission to help you experience the finest of NYC (without appearing like a tourist)! Even if you still appear to be a tourist, that’s perfect. Here are few tips that will help you.
NYC is Best Navigated by Public Transportation
If you didn’t already know, the greatest method to navigate around New York City is to take public transportation! I’m not kidding when I say that traffic in NYC is ridiculous. When driving past Times Square, you can be held at a traffic light for more than 10 minutes.
Visit Times Square, but don’t dine there
As a first-time visitor to New York City, Times Square is a must-see, but do not eat in Times Square! It’s just too expensive for such poor cuisine! Consider the restaurants in your hometown. The food at the most popular tourist destinations is usually mediocre. There are few exceptions, such as Carmines, but I’d rather dine somewhere else.
Sidewalks Have Their Own Traffic Rules
As I previously stated, New Yorkers are in a rush, and the city is congested, thus sidewalks must function properly! To begin with, never, ever, ever stop walking on a busy sidewalk! You’d be like a car, obstructing traffic for no apparent reason. If you have to stop, look for a spot off to the side or against a wall. You’ll also notice that the sidewalks will have two lanes of pedestrian traffic. Make sure you’re on your right side, and if you’re not walking quickly, make sure you’re all the way to the right! If you’re in a large group, don’t crowd the sidewalk by standing next to one other.
Beware of Buses, Cabs, and the Bike Path
To your increasing list of New York City travel tips, add buses, taxis, and bicycles. When I say be careful of buses, taxis, and even bicycles, I’m not joking! These individuals resemble drunk drivers swerving along the roadway! I can’t tell you how many times their erratic driving has nearly caused an accident! And keep an eye out for that bike path, because they’ll run you down!
Avoid Tourist Traps
I’m sure you’re thinking to yourself, “Of course, I’m aware of tourist traps,” but what exactly are they? People trying to sell you stuff on the street is one of the most typical tourist traps in NYC. It’s most certainly a swindle, whether it’s tickets to see Kevin Hart for $10, “Real” Louis Vuitton bags for $20, or free admission to venues. The bags are never genuine, and the tickets are almost always fake. They draw you in for a picture when you’re walking through Times Square? I can assure you that it is not out of a sense of altruism on their part. They will pester you for a tip once the shot is taken. Simply tell randos approaching you on the street, “No Thanks!”