There’s no doubt why New York City is said to be the center of the world and its greatest urban enclave. With its lavish hotels, award-winning restaurants, legendary cocktail bars, sprawling department stores, and endless cultural attractions, New York is made for jetsetters of all kinds.
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where to stay
- JW Marriott Essex House New York
- The New York Edition
- The Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park
- Element New York Times Square West
- Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel
- The St. Regis New York
- The Westin New York at Times Square
- W New York – Times Square
- 11 Howard, New York, a Member of Design Hotels
- Gramercy Park Hotel, New York, a Member of Design Hotels
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did you know?
Over 37 percent of New Yorkers were born in another country, and it’s estimated some 800 are spoken here, including super rare ones like Quechua or Garifuna.
QUICK GUIDE
WHEN TO GO
June – Aug.: Summer can be a scorcher, though it’s also the best time for festivals and events; plus, lots of locals travel, so the city feels less crowded.
Dec. – Mid-March: Winter is cold and dreary, but holiday lights, decorations and events bring a special magic to the city.
April – May, Sept. – Nov.: Spring and fall tend to have gorgeous weather, ideal for exploring.
NEED TO KNOW
Visas: Travelers from outside the United States will need a valid passport, as well as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) eligibility or a full visa.
Money: Currency is U.S. dollars and ATMs are widely available. A number of NYC’s cafes and shops are going cashless; be sure to travel with a credit card.
Travel Health: Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should check for vaccination, proof of negative COVID-19 test and face mask requirements, as well as any travel restrictions before planning their trip. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away. For the latest updates on NYC’s health and safety guidelines, travel restrictions and tourist resources, visit NYC: The Official Guide.
GETTING AROUND
Getting Here: Three major airports serve New York City: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in Queens, and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey. Amtrak trains arrive into Penn Station, and the major bus hub is Port Authority Bus Terminal (though many major bus lines also drop off/pick up at points around the city).
Getting Around: The MTA operates NYC’s public transportation; the subway is extensive and inexpensive, and bus lines are also convenient. Taxis and ride shares are ubiquitous, and the Citi Bike bike-share program is a good option for travelers who don’t mind biking on busy city streets.
LOCAL INTEL
Local Lingo: The City: Manhattan (and not NYC’s other boroughs). On line: In line. Houston Street: It’s pronounced HOW-ston. Slice: A single piece of pizza. Bodega: 24-hour convenience/grocery stores found on seemingly every city block. Schmear: Cream cheese spread (typically on a bagel). The Village: Greenwich Village.
Must-Have Apps: ILoveNY; Uber; The Infatuation; Google Maps
Insider Tips: Skip the pricey NYC boat tours, and take a far less expensive ride on the NY Ferry commuter service, a super fun way to get on the water for some DIY sightseeing along the East River, including Long Island City, Midtown, DUMBO, South Brooklyn, the Financial District, Governor’s Island (seasonally) and more.