It’s said that New Yorkers aren’t polite to visitors or tourists. If you ask me, it’s simply because the majority of tourists aren’t aware of how to act accordingly during their visit or stay in NYC. Luckily, it’s not too hard to understand what you should and should not do during your stay.
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Here are some simple rules that you should know when visiting New York as a tourist.
Plan Your Day Ahead
We all want tourists to explore as much of the city as possible. But you can’t do it all in a day. At least plan your day ahead. There are lots of interesting things to do and plenty of iconic places to visit but don’t be the random type of tourist who’s all over the place. You’ll end up wasting a lot of time.
If you don’t know where to start, Gonytours.com, a New York City tours company, recommends that you start with planned city tours like New York City sightseeing bus tours or Central Park bike tours. You’ll get to see more in a day than you could, walking around on your own.
Don’t Stop Dead in the Middle of Sidewalks
New York is a walking city with “high-traffic” streets filled with city residents and tourists alike. If there’s one rule you should know: never stop in the middle of the streets or sidewalk to check your map or take a photo. Respect pedestrian traffic by standing aside so that people won’t run over you.
If you’re in a group, don’t take up the whole sidewalk during your sightseeing walks. While it’s understandable that you’re in no rush, others are, so don’t block their way as you take in the scenery. Always walk on the right side when in a group and don’t hold hands while doing so.
Avoid Empty Subway Cars
We all want to get a good spot on the subway train. If a train pulls up with an empty car, there’s obviously a reason why it’s empty. Don’t be too excited to hop in. It could be a spillage of something you won’t like or a malfunctioning air conditioner. Take our word on this: avoid empty subway cars.
Don’t Block Subway Doors
Subways in the city are the most preferred mode of public transport, so expect over crowding. If you’re the type of tourist who can’t opt for other modes of transportation, you should learn basic subway etiquette. Don’t block the subway doors or cluster around the doors with your friends.
People need space as they get on and off the subway train. Get to the center of the subway car when you board. People will step aside as you get off the train when it stops. On a lighter note, a Huffington Post article, notes that the best and easiest way to travel around Manhattan is by subway, so enjoy your ride.
Don’t Forget the Outer Boroughs
It’s no secret, Manhattan is where every tourist wants to be, but it would be disappointing if you failed to visit the outer boroughs where so much happens. Visit Staten Island, Brooklyn, Bronx, and Queens and enjoy a unique charm of their attractions.
You’ll be happy to find a more relaxed feel and cheaper restaurants and nice places to shop. There’s a lot to see outside the popular NYC streets and crowded attractions like Central Park or Empire State Building. Feel like a savvy local by trying out off-the-track tours.
You Can Ask for Directions
New York residents can be rude sometimes, but they’ll politely offer help if you need it. If you require directions, don’t hesitate to ask. Most locals take pride in their knowledge of the city’s whereabouts. No one wants you to get lost so ask for directions.
Enjoy Your Trip
Don’t forget that planning always makes things easier. Like TripAdvisor.com advises, plan your activities for the next day. Where you’ll be visiting and in what order, how you will move around and appropriate clothes for the weather.