New York can turn out to be an overwhelming city. It is crowded, loud, and there appears to be an endless number of conducts that only locals are able to understand. Irrespective of being referred to as the “City of Dreams,” New York is regarded as the go-to destination for artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers from all corners of the world. 

While there are several tips on things to do and places to visit in this majestic city, there are several practical aspects of visiting this city that you should know about. We have prepared a list of the important things that you should know about before heading to this dreamy beauty:

Photo: unsplash.com/gianviphotos

• Understand What Downtown Means: When you are in New York City, when someone is referring to “downtown,” it simply does not imply the commercial center of the city. In Manhattan particularly, downtown implies some place in the southerly direction or the neighborhood that is below the 14th street. Therefore, if someone says that he or she lives in the downtown area, then this means that they are living in one of the given neighborhoods.

• Traffic Rules for Sidewalks: While these rules are not as strict as landing you in getting a ticket, still you are expected to abide by the rules that apply to the sidewalk. If you are not sure of the same, then it is recommended that you should consider walking down some busy sidewalk as driving on the highway –you should keep to the right. Do not opt for abrupt stops. In case you are distracted by something, you should only slow down. The same rules are known to apply to escalators. 

Photo: unsplash.com/jamesgenchi

• Know About the Scooters and Bikes: The impressive row of blue bicycles that you observe being docked around the city happen to be Citi Bikes. A day-based pass can cost you around $12 while a 3-day pass would cost you around $24. These are meant for fast-paced trips around the city. Upon unlocking a bike, you will have around half an hour before docking the same again –at any specified location. 

• Going Across the Subway: There is no denying the fact that owning a car in New York is highly expensive. Moreover, getting proper parking is immensely difficult and traffic is almost impossible to deal with. Most people in New York City are, therefore, known to make use of subway for transportation. It is highly inexpensive. Moreover, when it is functioning properly, it can turn out to be highly fast & convenient. In case you are in New York for more than a week, then you can think about making use of the unlimited card worth $33 for seven days. This can be purchased at a MTA station at the respective kiosk. There are some do’s and don’ts that you should follow at the subway as well.

Being in New York is a great experience in itself. Make the most of your trip to this beautiful and happening city.