20 things nobody tells you about visiting new york by a native new yorker
You can’t really avoid them, so if you can find reasonable parking, it’s nice not needing to deal with parking and driving in new york city. Most new yorkers also hate paying the bridge tolls, even if they get a discount. A walking tour is a great way to get to grips with new york city’s neighbourhoods and several are free. Sandemans is another top option, providing a deep dive into central park and digging into food-focused neighbourhoods such as chinatown and little italy.
So there’s never a reason to carry large amounts of cash. However, if you need some money, use an atm at an established banking location. As difficult as it may be, don’t give money to beggars. You never know what that money is truly going to be used for. If the opportunity presents itself and you feel compelled, purchase a coffee or some food.
I actually have posts on how What to do in NY to get to/from the major airports in nyc so feel free to use those a sa guide since they are pretty detailed. Normally this is calculated automatically and displayed on their screen. Limoseums on the other hand are considered a luxury service so tips for limo drivers start at around 15 percent. I know you may not want to pay to use the bathroom but I assure you, it is money well spent. Then do so in a nice restaurant or coffee shop (not a bodega or cornerstore) where you have to purchase something in order to enjoy the privledge of using their bathroom. There really is nothing worse than getting stuck behind someone who just doesn’t know how to swipe their metrocard, when you desperately need to get to that ultra-impiortant job interview.
No matter how many times I visit nyc, I barely seem to put a dent in my bucket list. We will never see it all so it’s all about prioritizing. Narrow it down to the things you just can’t wait to do.
If you have to visit the restroom, take everything with you and don’t be tempted to leave bags on the counter or near the door. Avoid strangers asking to carry your bags or anyone that offers you a deal on a ride that sounds too good to be true — because it probably is. Don’t waste your money on a view if you can get a drink and a view for half the price. There are so many great rooftop bars in new york city, so don’t feel that you need to go to the top of the empire state building if you’re 21+. New york city is so big and I usually recommend that you take spend 3 days in new york at a minimum. I think that this is the minimum for just going to the main attractions in manhattan.