Traveler FAQs
Your Essential Guide to New York City – Answers to Your Common Questions
Avoid expensive roaming charges by using an eSIM (digital SIM) if your phone is compatible and unlocked. It's incredibly convenient upon arrival. For reliable options, consider providers like Airalo (various US/NYC plans via app), Yesim (flexible plans with good NYC coverage), or Drimsim (pay-as-you-go, good if unsure of usage). Purchase and activate via their apps/websites (often a QR code scan) before or upon landing. Check your phone's eSIM compatibility first in your mobile/cellular settings. Remember, your phone must be unlocked from your home carrier.
Significant flight disruptions (usually 3+ hour delays, cancellations, denied boarding) involving NYC's busy airports can be stressful. Depending on the airline and route (especially involving the EU/UK), you might be entitled to compensation under air passenger rights regulations. Navigating claims can be complex, but services exist to help. For instance, Compensair specializes in managing these claims for travelers on a "no win, no fee" basis, handling the paperwork and airline negotiations. You can check potential eligibility on their website by entering your flight details.
While not legally required, travel insurance is highly recommended for visiting NYC. Unexpected medical emergencies can be extremely expensive in the US, and insurance also provides crucial coverage for trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen issues, giving you peace of mind. Consider providers like EKTA, which offers comprehensive policies purchasable online (often delivered quickly via email) and includes coverage for many situations, including COVID-19 related issues, with 24/7 support. You can explore policy details and get a quote directly on their website.
This is a common traveler dilemma! Instead of dragging bags around, use a luggage storage service. Radical Storage offers a convenient network of secure storage locations ("Angels") in local shops, hotels, and businesses across NYC. You can easily find and book a spot online via their website or app, usually for a flat daily fee per bag, often including insurance coverage for added security. It frees you up to enjoy the city hassle-free.
NYC is generally very safe for tourists, especially in the areas most visitors frequent. Like any major global city, the key is awareness. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, be mindful of your surroundings (especially in crowded areas or on the subway), stick to well-lit streets at night, and trust your instincts. Tourist areas are well-policed, but standard big-city precautions apply.
NYC has excellent transport options:
Subway: The fastest way to cover distances, runs 24/7. Essential for efficient travel between boroughs or uptown/downtown.
Walking: The best way to experience neighborhoods up close, essential for exploring specific areas.
Buses: Good for crosstown routes not covered by the subway or if you prefer staying above ground.
Yellow Cabs/Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Convenient for direct routes, door-to-door service, or when travelling late at night, but can be slow and costly in traffic.
Ferries (e.g., Staten Island Ferry, NYC Ferry): Great for specific routes, commuting, and offer fantastic skyline views. (More details on our Transport Page).
It's efficient once you grasp the basics! Pay per ride (currently $2.90) or buy a 7-day unlimited pass (currently $34) using OMNY (tap-to-pay with credit/debit card or phone) or a MetroCard (phasing out but still available). For real-time train status and route planning, use apps like the official MYmta app, Citymapper, or Google Maps. Pay attention to signs: 'Uptown' (northbound) vs. 'Downtown' (southbound), and 'Local' (stops everywhere) vs. 'Express' (skips stops). Stand back from the platform edge and let people exit before boarding. (More tips on our Transport Page).
Must-have apps include:
Google Maps:Â Excellent for overall navigation, walking directions, and integrates transit info well. (iOSÂ /Â Android)
Citymapper:Â Superb for comparing different transit options (subway, bus, bike, walking, ferry, rideshare) with real-time data and costs. (iOSÂ /Â Android)
MYmta:Â The official MTA app for real-time subway/bus arrival info, service alerts, and maps. (iOSÂ /Â Android)
Transit:Â Another popular app combining real-time info for various modes. (iOSÂ /Â Android)
Citi Bike App:Â Essential if you plan to use the bike-sharing system. (iOSÂ /Â Android)
Experience the flavors of NYC! Don't miss: a classic NY-style pizza slice (fold it!), a fresh bagel with cream cheese (or lox), a pastrami on rye sandwich from a traditional deli, a street cart hot dog with all the fixings, a black & white cookie, and a rich slice of NY cheesecake. Explore food halls like Chelsea Market or Essex Market for diverse options under one roof.
Tipping is customary and expected for many services, as wages often rely on it:
Restaurants (Table Service): 18-22% of the pre-tax bill is standard.
Bartenders: $1-2 per drink, or 15-20% of the bar tab.
Coffee Shops/Counter Service (with tip jar): Optional, but $1 or rounding up is appreciated for good service.
Taxi/Rideshare Drivers: 15-20% of the fare.
Hotel Bellhops: $2-5 per bag.
Hotel Housekeeping: $3-5 per day (leave daily).
Tour Guides: 15-20% of the tour cost, depending on group size/length.
Food Delivery: 15-20%.
Always check if a gratuity ("service charge") has already been added, especially for large groups.
It depends on your priorities!
Spring (Apr-Jun): Pleasant weather, parks bloom, energetic vibe. Can be rainy.
Fall (Sep-Nov): Often considered prime time. Crisp air, beautiful foliage, comfortable temperatures, but popular.
Summer (Jul-Aug): Vibrant with outdoor events, but hot, humid, and peak crowds/prices.
Winter (Dec-Mar): Magical holiday season (Dec) but very crowded/expensive. Jan/Feb offer lowest hotel rates but are coldest, potential for snow.
NYC offers tons of free experiences! Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge (iconic views), ride the Staten Island Ferry (free Statue of Liberty/skyline views), explore Central Park, walk the High Line (elevated park), wander through Times Square (experience the spectacle), browse Chelsea Market, visit Grand Central Terminal, admire the architecture of the New York Public Library (Schwarzman Building), explore vibrant neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or DUMBO.
New Yorkers move fast! Keep pace on sidewalks; step aside if you need to stop. Stand right, walk left on escalators. Let people off the subway/bus before you get on. Be mindful of noise levels on public transport. Basic politeness ("please," "thank you") is appreciated. Tipping appropriately is crucial (see FAQ #10). Avoid blocking doorways or busy intersections.
Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable year-round! Beyond that:
Summer (Jun-Aug): Light clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, maybe a light layer for AC.
Winter (Dec-Feb): Warm, waterproof coat, layers (thermals, sweaters), waterproof boots, gloves, hat, scarf.
Spring (Mar-May): Layers are key! Medium jacket (water-resistant helpful), sweaters, umbrella. Weather varies.
Fall (Sep-Nov): Layers again. Light-to-medium jacket, sweaters, scarf. Can range from warm to quite cool.
Midtown (around Times Square or slightly off) is popular for its centrality to attractions and transport, but can be very busy/touristy. Consider:
Upper West Side: More residential feel, near parks/museums, good transit.
Greenwich Village/West Village: Charming, historic, great dining/atmosphere.
SoHo/Nolita: Trendy, upscale shopping, lively.
Lower East Side: Edgy history, vibrant nightlife, diverse food.
Choose based on your budget and preferred vibe. (Check our Stays Page for guides).
Absolutely! Neighborhoods like Downtown Brooklyn, Williamsburg (Brooklyn), or Long Island City (Queens) offer fantastic hotels, often at better value and with larger rooms than comparable Manhattan options. They have their own great character, dining scenes, and are usually just a quick subway ride from Manhattan attractions. LIC often boasts incredible skyline views.
Book well in advance (3-6 months, especially for peak times). Travel mid-week or during shoulder/off-seasons (Jan-Mar). Be flexible with dates if possible. Compare prices on booking sites but also check the hotel's direct website for potential deals or loyalty perks. Consider staying just outside prime Midtown (e.g., Financial District, Upper Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens). Join hotel loyalty programs.
Yes, be aware of mandatory "Resort Fees," "Destination Fees," or "Facility Fees." Many NYC hotels charge these per night, often 25-50Â USD, supposedly covering amenities (Wi-Fi, gym, etc.), regardless of use. These are often not included in the initial price quote. Always factor these and city/state taxes (around 14.75%+) into your final budget. Check policies for early check-in/late check-out fees too.
To avoid disappointment (and often required), book ahead for: Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island ferries (especially Crown/Pedestal access), 9/11 Memorial & Museum, major observation decks (Top of the Rock, Edge, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, One World Observatory), popular Broadway shows, and sometimes specific museum exhibitions or timed entries.
It can be, but depends entirely on your plans. If you intend to visit several of the specific major attractions included in the pass within its validity period, it often provides savings over individual tickets. Calculate the cost of the attractions you know you'll visit and compare it to the pass price. Also investigate other passes like Go City or the Sightseeing Pass, which have different structures (number of attractions vs. number of days) that might better suit your itinerary.
Book timed-entry tickets online in advance whenever possible – this is the single best strategy. Arrive early, ideally right at opening time. Visiting on weekdays instead of weekends, or during shoulder/off-peak seasons, also helps. Some attractions offer skip-the-line or VIP access for an extra fee.
Some offer free entry or specific free times (check websites for current policies):
The Met & American Museum of Natural History: Pay-what-you-wish only for NY/NJ/CT residents; fixed admission for others.
National Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian): Always free.
Bronx Museum of the Arts: Always free.
9/11 Memorial & Museum: Free admission Monday evenings (advance reservation required, limited).
Many museums have specific free evenings (e.g., MoMA, Whitney often Friday nights – check details/booking needs).
Yes! Companies like 'Free Tours by Foot' offer a wide range of neighborhood and themed tours operating on a 'pay-what-you-wish' model (you tip the guide based on satisfaction). 'Big Apple Greeter' pairs visitors with local volunteers for free, personalized neighborhood walks (book very far in advance).
NYC is great for families year-round! Some highlights:
Spring: Macy's Flower Show, Easter Parade.
Summer: Outdoor movies, Governors Island exploration, Coney Island.
Fall: Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (balloon inflation is fun too!), Halloween events.
Winter: Holiday window displays, Rockefeller Center Tree, ice skating rinks, holiday markets, NY Botanical Garden Train Show.
For any immediate, life-threatening emergency (police, fire, ambulance), dial 911. For non-emergency city services or inquiries (e.g., noise complaints, reporting potholes), dial 311.
Most areas tourists typically visit are very safe. Use standard city common sense: avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit, deserted areas or parks after dark (unless part of an event). Be aware of surroundings in crowded spots to avoid pickpocketing. If unsure, stick to main, well-trafficked streets.
Using your home bank's debit card at a major bank ATM (like Chase, Bank of America, Citibank) usually offers the most favorable exchange rates. Check your bank's foreign transaction/ATM fees beforehand. Avoid airport exchange kiosks and storefront currency exchanges in tourist hubs – their rates and fees are typically much worse. Using credit cards with low/no foreign transaction fees for purchases is also efficient.
Credit cards are king in NYC and accepted almost everywhere. Many places prefer or are even cashless. However, carry some cash (50−100 in smaller bills) for tips, small purchases (some street vendors, small shops), or rare cash-only situations.
The combined NYC & NY State sales tax is 8.875%. This is added at the register to the listed price of most goods and services. Important Exception: Clothing and footwear items costing under $110 individually are exempt from this sales tax. Remember to mentally add ~9% to your budget for most dining, souvenirs, electronics, and clothing items over $110.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner at popular, mid-range, or upscale restaurants, and definitely on weekends. Use apps like Resy or OpenTable, or book via the restaurant's website well in advance for sought-after spots. Casual diners or cafes might not take them.
Venture beyond Times Square! Explore neighborhoods known for food: West Village, East Village, Lower East Side, SoHo in Manhattan; Williamsburg, Carroll Gardens, Jackson Heights (Queens), Arthur Avenue (Bronx). Read local food blogs/sites (Eater NY, Infatuation). Check Google Maps reviews, focusing on recent, detailed ones. Ask locals – hotel staff (concierge/bellhop often have good tips), shopkeepers.
NYC can be affordable! Try classic pizza slice shops (3−5 USD), diverse food trucks, Chinatown/Little Italy eateries, explore ethnic food hubs in Queens (Jackson Heights, Flushing) or Brooklyn, look for lunch specials, grab bagels/deli sandwiches, or hit up grocery stores like Trader Joe's for picnic supplies/snacks.
They can be fantastic if you love food and want a curated experience! They're great for sampling multiple iconic tastes (pizza, bagels, etc.) or exploring a neighborhood's culinary scene efficiently, often with historical/cultural context. Weigh the cost against trying things independently, but they offer convenience and expert guidance.
Prioritize lunch specials (often cheaper than dinner). Embrace street food/food trucks. Explore affordable ethnic neighborhoods. Take advantage of happy hour deals (drinks and food). Have a classic bagel or slice for a cheap meal. Consider picnics in parks. Share larger portions. Drink tap water.
Check apps/sites like TheFork (may offer booking discounts), Pulsd (curated local deals, often including restaurants), and sometimes Groupon, but always read the fine print and restrictions carefully. Follow local food bloggers or neighborhood guides online, as they sometimes highlight specials.
Spring: Energetic, hopeful, outdoor life returns, flowers bloom.
Summer: Vibrant, busy, lots of festivals/outdoor events, buzzing energy, hot.
Fall: Picturesque, cozy, crisp air, cultural season kicks off, beautiful foliage.
Winter: Festive & magical (Dec), potentially snowy & quiet (Jan/Feb), cozy indoor focus.
"Avoid" is strong, but be prepared for extremes: Late July/August can bring intense heat/humidity. The week between Christmas and New Year's is peak crowds and peak prices. Major holiday weekends are also very busy. If you dislike extreme cold or potential snow disruption, avoid Jan/Feb.
Just a few highlights:
Spring: Tribeca Film Fest, Macy's Flower Show, Cherry Blossoms.
Summer: NYC Pride, Shakespeare in the Park, US Open Tennis.
Fall: NYC Marathon, Thanksgiving Day Parade, Village Halloween Parade.
Winter: Rockefeller Tree Lighting, Holiday Markets, NYE Ball Drop, Lunar New Year.
Book ASAP! For massive events (NYE, Thanksgiving week), 6-12 months ahead for accommodation isn't unreasonable, especially for good locations/prices. For other large events (Marathon, major festivals), aim for 3-6 months out for flights and hotels. Event-specific tickets often sell out quickly once released.