United States
New York
New York rewards walking. The subway is 24 hours, covers all five boroughs, and a single ride costs 2.90 dollars. Three airports serve the city and they are not equally convenient.
Entry requirements
Visa Waiver Program travellers need an approved ESTA, valid two years, costing 21 dollars. Passport must be valid throughout the stay.
Transportation
From JFK, the AirTrain plus the E subway reaches Manhattan for about 11 dollars in 60 to 75 minutes. From LGA, the new AirTrain and Q70 bus are options. From EWR, take NJ Transit or the AirTrain to Penn Station.
Currency
US Dollar. Tipping is expected - 18 to 20 percent in restaurants, 1 to 2 dollars per drink at bars, 15 to 20 percent for taxis and rideshare.
Airports
JFK (international), LaGuardia (LGA, mostly domestic), Newark (EWR, in New Jersey but often cheaper).
Practical tips
- Get a contactless card or use OMNY on your phone at subway turnstiles - it caps at 34 dollars per week.
- Book Broadway tickets via TodayTix or the TKTS booth in Times Square for same day discounts.
- Avoid Times Square taxis. Yellow cabs anywhere else are fine.
Common traveller mistakes
- Assuming EWR is far from Manhattan. It is often faster than JFK during rush hour.
- Ignoring subway service changes on weekends - always check the MTA app.