If you're on a roadtrip to the Northeast, you know you have got to travel to New York City. You just have to figure out where to park your car, right?
For many "seasoned" travelers, New York City does not have the best reputation many years ago, if you originate from a smaller and rural location away from the "big city" mainly. But something has happened to New York recently that it's a must to visit one of the best cities in the US, if you can not do in the world. Whatever you've heard of the 1970s and 80s era is really old news. Manhattan has lost none of its diversity and multiculturalism, but most people seem to respect the general public. Unless one ventures into areas that are not regularly frequented by tourists and workers, this city is safer than many others.
For many "seasoned" travelers, New York City does not have the best reputation many years ago, if you originate from a smaller and rural location away from the "big city" mainly. But something has happened to New York recently that it's a must to visit one of the best cities in the US, if you can not do in the world. Whatever you've heard of the 1970s and 80s era is really old news. Manhattan has lost none of its diversity and multiculturalism, but most people seem to respect the general public. Unless one ventures into areas that are not regularly frequented by tourists and workers, this city is safer than many others.
Large parts of this multi-faceted city
are not only safe to go day or night, they offer a huge amount of
local color observed with varied restaurants, shopping, museums,
tours, etc., and people. Personal automobiles are the exception.
Parking is very expensive and scarce, but perhaps more importantly,
public transport by bus or subway is much cheaper, and these days is
clean and safe. Much of the equipment is fairly new and signs of wear
(and graffiti) are rare.
Walking distance to and from a bus or
the subway is the preferred method of transportation. Since subways avoid traffic on the roads, they are faster than the buses
generally. But the buses are usually clean, modern and better
accommodate the disabled with special priority seats and ramps if
needed. If the MTA system map looks discouraging, don't fret – most
station agents and bus drivers are helpful. After a few trips, it all
gets too much understandable. If you accidentally head on the wrong
train station or bus stop, you can only go back as a rule where you
started on demand or anywhere else, with the same ticket if you take
the bus (as long as you do not pass through the exit turnstiles you do not even need a ticket to use again on the subway.). And if you show
that almost inevitably "look" of a tourist on the Metro, do
not be surprised if a friendly New Yorker offers help and advice.
As in any other foreign city, you
should avoid approaching strangers - there are many shopkeepers,
police, transit workers and others are available to help you. Common
sense is the rule here, as everywhere else.
Like any other city, pedestrians
should, especially on the road (and faster bikes) pay attention, even
if they may have the right-of-way. Although the taxi drivers are not
reluctant to use their horns to let other cars - and pedestrian -
alleged errors, they usually do not try to intimidate pedestrian
crosswalk. And there's nothing wrong with a taxi, if you are willing
to pay more. It seems most of Manhattan cars are taxis anyway. The
prices are regulated and the taxis are quite clean for the most part.
Although MTA trip is for LaGuardia Airport, most people probably
prefer a taxi, is mainly because of luggage.
If you notice that getting around NYC
is not unsafe or difficult - in fact, it is easier than in most other
cities - you can look forward to a wide selection of things to
do.
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