New York is the kind of place you simply have to see once before you die. And for many people, including some of the millions of visitors the Big Apple gets every year, Manhattan is New York. Sure, the five boroughs of the city all have their own individual charm and are well worth exploring. But nowhere else combines famous attractions and quintessential New York experiences like Manhattan does.
Drop off your bags at a Manhattan luggage storage, and you can experience for yourself just what New York has to offer. But before you go, there are a few things you should know about this part of New York to help you get the most out of your trip. Here are some tips to make sure you have the best New York vacation possible.
Don’t Drive
This first rule almost goes without saying, but at the same time, it bears repeating. No one drives in New York unless their job depends on it, and there’s good reason for that. Traffic is a nightmare, parking is scarce and expensive, and the public transportation system is both comprehensive and easy to use. Save yourself the headache (and money) and take advantage of New York’s world-famous subway system instead.
See a Show on Broadway
Broadway shows are a defining part of the New York experience, so even if you’re not usually into live theater, it’s worth seeing at least one while you’re in town. The great thing about Broadway shows is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a musical, a comedy, or a drama, you’re sure to find something that appeals to your taste. Just be sure to get your tickets in advance, as many popular shows sell out quickly.
Eat Where the Locals Do
New York is absolutely packed with chain restaurants ready to serve the tourist crowd, but why spend good money on an experience you can have anywhere? Instead, try and seek out lesser-known places to eat where you’ll get a true New York experience.
Seeing a crowd outside a restaurant or deli is often a good sign, especially if it’s a crowd of New Yorkers rather than tourists. This means the food is good and it’s worth waiting in line for. And speaking of lines, don’t be afraid to wait in them. Many of the best places to eat in New York have long lines, but the food is always worth the wait.
Don’t Forget to Tip
This is an important one, especially if you’re not used to city living. In New York (and most other major cities), it’s customary to tip service workers 15-20%. This includes taxi and Uber drivers, waiters and bartenders, and anyone else who provides a service. Tipping is how many of these workers make a decent wage, so be sure to leave a good tip whenever possible. New York may be the city that never sleeps, but it’s also a city that always tips, so it’s important to factor this into your budget before you travel.
Subway Etiquette
New Yorkers have a reputation for being rude, but it’s not entirely justified. It’s just that, in this busy city, people get impatient. And there’s no quicker way to irritate the locals than by failing to live up to their standards of etiquette in public places. The subway is just one of those places in New York that is fraught with rules.
First, don’t stand on the left side of the escalator or staircase. This is the side that people use to walk up or down, and standing on it just slows everyone down. Second, don’t take up more than one seat on the subway unless you’re willing to share with someone else. New Yorkers are very particular about personal space, so try and be mindful of that when you’re on public transportation. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for directions. New Yorkers may seem gruff, but most are happy to help a lost tourist find their way around.
Get a City Pass
If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing while you’re in New York, it might be worth getting a city pass. This will give you access to many of the city’s most popular attractions, and it can end up saving you a lot of money in the long run. Just be sure to do your research before you buy, as not all passes are created equal. Some only include certain attractions, and others have blackout dates when they can’t be used. But if you plan ahead, a city pass can be a great way to save money and see everything New York has to offer.
Staying safe in Manhattan
Manhattan is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any major city, there are some things you should keep in mind to stay safe. First, be aware of your surroundings at all times. This means not walking around with your head buried in your phone and being aware of who and what is around you. Second, avoid ATMs that are in isolated or dark areas, and be sure to keep your belongings close to you when you’re out and about. Finally, if you’re going to be out late at night, try to stick to well-lit and populated areas. If you follow these simple tips, you should have no problem staying safe during your trip to Manhattan.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
This is a tip that applies to any city, but it’s especially important in New York. With all the walking you’ll be doing, you’re going to want to make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style, of course. Just be sure to break in your shoes before you come to avoid getting too many blisters.
Keep to the Right While Walking
In New York (and most other cities), it’s customary to keep to the right while walking. This helps to keep foot traffic moving in an orderly fashion and prevents people from running into each other. It may seem like a small thing, but it’s just good manners.
Never Pass by a Bathroom
Public bathrooms can be hard to find in Manhattan, and those you do find may not be in the best condition. Therefore, whether you’re relaxing at your hotel or eating in a restaurant, remember to use the bathroom, even if you don’t really feel like you need to. It could be a long time before you find another one.
Conclusion
There is nowhere on earth quite like Manhattan. This legendary district has everything you need for a memorable vacation. Just keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have a seamless trip to New York.
