All opinions are mine and mine alone.

6 Tips To Help First-Timers Explore NYC

In New York, it is easy to be overwhelmed by everything, especially if you are a first timer. NYC is a maze of large buildings and long streets that can confuse anyone. However, getting lost in this city does not have to be a big deal. Here are some tips that will help you explore the Big Apple with confidence:

1.Research Beforehand

Once you take several days off work and book your flights, you should figure out where you will be staying. If it is your first time visiting New York, you should book reservations in Manhattan because it is closer to public transport and all the major attractions. However, if you are a returning visitor, choose Queens or Brooklyn because they are cheaper options and offer a unique view of New York. You’ll be able to see all other landmarks you didn’t have time for during your previous visit.

If you choose Brooklyn or Queens, find a hotel closer to the subway line because buses can be unreliable. You also need to make your exploration plans before you head to the Big Apple to avoid wasting time. To maximize your exploration time, have a starting point and an end point for each day then fill the empty slots with random activities. If you have no idea where to start, opt for tours and sightseeing companies. For instance, you can book with TopView NYC and have them create a sightseeing itinerary for you.

2. When to Book Reservations

When you are in New York, you will need to book reservations for most activities. Here are some tips on how to make reservations for different things:

Show Tapings

Late night show tapings go by some type of a lottery system – entry is free but you should enter your name severally to get a seat. To be successful in getting a seat, start entering your name at least one month before the taping.

A Broadway Show

Start booking Broadway shows at least one month before your scheduled trip. When buying from their website, wait for days when the exchange rate is good.

A Comedy Show

When visiting NYC, a comedy show is a great fail-safe plan. To get a seat, book on the day before and if you cannot get in, try another show – there is always another comedy show. Ensure you arrive fifteen minutes before the show starts to give yourself time to settle before the act begins.

3. Buy a Metro Pass

You need to invest in an unlimited Metrocard if you are staying longer than a weekend. A Metrocard will be your best investment because the transit system in New York is more reliable than hailing cabs. Moreover, this card will save you money because public transport is cheaper.

4. Wear Walking Shoes

When in the Big Apple, always wear your comfortable walking shoes. You might be underestimating the amount of walking that you will be doing on a daily basis. When you wear the wrong shoes, you will end up with blisters and calluses. If you usually wear high heels, carry a pair of sneakers in your bag just in case you have to walk far.

5. Use Offline Phone Maps

Are you wondering how to make your own offline map? All you need to do is log into Gmail and enter your destination on Google Maps. The three vertical dots next to your destination will help you download the map. You can now send the map to your phone.

6. Pack Snacks

If you do not eat gluten, finding snacks in a new city can be hard. Make your own trail mix and keep a few candy bars handy. Snacks will keep you full until you find a good restaurant.