Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re posting from Ellis Island in New York. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the twelve shocks for travelers who visit NYC .
Shock #1: New York Hotel Prices
Before you even arrive in New York, you’ll get your first shock when you start researching where to stay in New York. All the hotels in New York are expensive, and usually much smaller than hotels anywhere else in the U.S. On top of high prices for hotel rooms, there’s also a pretty big tax added on to your room charge. And don’t forget to tip the cleaning staff! Plan to tip about $2-$5 per day for the hotel housekeeping.
Watch: Hotel Advice for New York City
Shock #2: Free (or Cheap) Things to do in New York
After deciding where to stay in New York, you might think everything will be expensive. But it’s actually pretty easy to see the sights of New York on the cheap. There are so many free things to do in New York, like walking the famous streets and parks, checking out Grand Central Station, the 9/11 memorial and Central Park. Many museums have free evenings or suggested admission prices, so that’s another great way to save money in New York.
Shock #3: Crowds in New York
New York is one of the largest, and busiest, cities in the world. In addition to nearly nine million people who live in New York City, there are always tons of tourists visiting from all over the world. This is one reason New York is called the City that Never Sleeps – there’s always something going on and always lots of noise. It can be overwhelming at times,
Shock #4: New York City Residents
Much like Parisians, New Yorkers have a reputation for being rude and even downright mean. But you will be shocked at how helpful New Yorkers can be. New York is a fast-paced city, and everyone is always in a hurry to get somewhere, so they may come across as rude if you are dawdling in the sidewalk or standing left on an escalator, but if you need help, a New Yorker won’t hesitate to give you directions or recommend their favorite pizza joint.
Shock #5: Public Toilets in New York
In general, there is a lack of public toilets to use in New York. If you do find a public toilet, it’s not likely to be very clean. Make sure you use your hotel restroom before leaving, and if you pass by the hotel during the day, pop in again to use the toilet. You really don’t want to have to use public toilets in New York. It’s such a problem, there are even apps you can download to tell you where to find a decent public bathroom in New York!
Read: The 12 “Don’ts” of New York City
Shock #6: Cultural Attractions in New York
The number of world-class cultural attractions in New York is shocking. There’s The Met, MOMA, The Natural History Museum, Ellis Island where you can find your family names. Whether you prefer art, history, nature or something else, you will find so many cultural things to do in New York.
Shock #7: The NYC Skyline
Whether you fly into New York, drive or arrive by train, the first glimpse you get of the New York skyline is shocking. It’s such an iconic American sight, with the Statue of Liberty and endless skyscrapers, you can’t help but get a tingly feeling to see it in person.
Shock #8: Cash Only Businesses in New York
Some of the best places to grab food in New York don’t take credit cards. Some of the smaller pizza joints, delis and bodegas may only take cash, so it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you. If you don’t have cash, the shop can always direct you to the nearest ATM, although be prepared for high ATM fees!
Shock #9: New York Subway
Riding the subway in New York is a quintessential New York experience, but there are good and bad shocks to the NYC subway. When you first try to ride the subway, figuring out the numbers and letters can be challenging, but the NY subway is pretty easy to use once you figure it out. (There are apps to help you figure it out) Some of the sights and smells can be a bit shocking, and if you get on an Express train by accident, you’re in for a real shock as you zoom past your intended station!
Shock #10: Manhattan is Just One of Five Boroughs
Most people picture Manhattan when they think of New York, and that’s where most tourists spend the bulk of their time. But to really experience the essence of New York, try to get out into some of the other boroughs. Brooklyn of course is very trendy now, but there’s also Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx. You can hop on a ferry, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or hop on the subway to check out New York’s “other” boroughs.
Shock #11: The Ground Zero Memorial
The Ground Zero Memorial is incredibly somber, and marks a traumatic time for our country. It’s a very moving experience, and this might take you by surprise at just how somber an experience it is. What’s even more shocking are the people taking duck-lip selfies at the reflecting pool.
Shock #12: Random Smell of New York City
As you walk around New York, you’ll notice a very distinct smell emanating from the sewer grates. It’s indescribable, but you’ll know it when you smell it. Fortunately, it’s not all the time, but you’ll definitely get a whiff here and there as you stroll the streets of New York City.
We hope these twelve tips help you prepare to visit New York City, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to New York City? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos: