Tips for a trip to New York
Does a city trip to New York tempt you? Plan your trip in advance so you can fully enjoy everything the Big Apple has to offer once you get there. In my blog, you'll find information on top attractions and great restaurants. Here are some tips that will help you organize the perfect trip to New York.
Complete your ESTA form well ahead of time
On the official website of the Department of Homeland Security, you can apply for this visa-waiver online. You do need your international passport first.
Duration of flight
A flight from Brussels to New York takes approximately 8 hours. The time difference is 6 hours. Keep this in mind if you have specific needs, such as medication or food for small children.
Immigration
A 1-hour wait at immigration is not uncommon.
Traveling with children
New York is an exciting city for young and old alike. You'll find kid-friendly amenities everywhere, and children are always given priority.
Metro
The New York City Subway is the transportation system of choice for getting around the city. The transit system covers Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx. You can buy a ticket per ride, but this arrangement will soon disappear. The new OMNY system allows you to pay touchless with your debit or credit card or your smartphone at the turnstile. If you take multiple rides with the same means of payment you automatically use fare capping. After 12 paid rides, you ride the rest of the week for free.
Clothing
Keep in mind the climate in New York. Summers are very hot and humid; winters are bitingly cold. It is also always windy. Don't forget to bring comfortable footwear. A walk around the block can sometimes cover 1 km!
World plug
Bring a world plug to charge your smartphone or computer. You can find these at all airports.
Restaurants
There is a huge choice of restaurants in New York. Read my blogs about restaurants in New York and my culinary journey. Trendy and popular restaurants are best booked 2 weeks in advance, especially for Thursdays through Saturdays. In the United States, people eat early. It is easier to find a table at 8 p.m. than at 6:30 pm.
Prices
Keep in mind that the listed prices are without taxes. The NY State tax is 4% and the NY City tax is 4.5%. Sometimes a NY Special tax is added. In restaurants, a minimum tip of 20% is expected.
Attractions
Make a list of all the attractions and activities you don't want to miss in New York. Book your tickets early online or buy a City Pass.
How many days to visit New York City?
Flying to New York is a long trip and there are many attractions in the city. In just 4 days you can get a good idea of what NYC has to offer. A 7-day vacation is ideal to fully enjoy the main sights and still have time to browse markets and stores.
Now you have all the tools you need to book an exciting city trip to New York. Discover the 10 must-dos in my blog