Exploring New York City: A Luxe Experience

New York City, often described as a playground for the wealthy, certainly lives up to its reputation. As I wandered through the luxury stores and attended concerts frequented by the affluent, I couldn’t shake the feeling of being under constant scrutiny. This sensation was more pronounced here than in Seattle or LA, and I noticed that the locals, particularly in the Chinese community, were a bit more reserved. Just days ago, I was captivated by the allure of the big city, but now the reality of budgeting as a traveler was starting to weigh on me.

💼 About Traveling Around:

Leave the car rental behind! The subway system is incredibly convenient, though it may not be the cleanest. However, I found that the crowd didn’t quite match the bizarre characters described online. Overall, I felt safe. Seriously, don’t rent a car! The traffic above ground is chaotic, with countless intersections where pedestrians often ignore traffic signals.

🛡️ Safety Concerns:

When it comes to safety, I found the tourist spots bustling with people. There’s no real need to worry during the daytime. I stayed near Times Square, and even at 11 PM, there were plenty of people around. I walked back to my hotel alone for twenty minutes and never felt unsafe. Although there were many homeless individuals on the streets, they generally kept to themselves, so I simply walked past without engaging.

✈️ Airport Transportation:

I landed at Newark Airport (EWR) and was fortunate to avoid any delays or cancellations. From EWR to Times Square, the Newark Airport Express is incredibly easy to use, with the bus station conveniently located just outside the terminal. Do keep in mind that the return trip from Times Square can be quite congested, and the bus might run late—my ride took an extra 40-50 minutes! If you’re taking the bus back, allow for some extra time. You can purchase tickets and check schedules on their official website.

💰 Tipping Etiquette:

Tipping in New York City can be steep, with many restaurants setting automatic gratuity at 20% or more. If you’re staying in a hotel, it’s wise to have some spare change on hand for tipping; services like luggage storage and housekeeping typically expect tips. We opted for the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign most days but left $5 in cash at the end of our stay (yes, we really were on a budget!).

Conclusion

New York City offers an unforgettable experience filled with dazzling attractions and vibrant streets. While the allure of luxury is tangible, it’s crucial to navigate wisely—utilizing public transport, prioritizing safety, and being aware of tipping expectations. Despite the hustle and bustle, the city’s energy is truly unmatched, leaving you with memories to cherish and stories to tell. 🌟 #Broadway #NewYork #Travel #NewYorkAdventure