New York, NY, USA

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) offer mild temperatures and comfortable conditions for exploring on foot. Weekday mornings are generally best for visiting major cultural institutions and observation decks before peak crowds arrive. Be aware that hotel rates surge during major holiday periods like Thanksgiving and late December, and some museums operate on modified holiday schedules.

The subway is the fastest and most efficient way to travel across the boroughs, operating 24 hours a day with contactless tap-to-pay (OMNY) available at turnstiles using credit cards or smartphones. City buses offer convenient surface routes and accept the same tap-to-pay system, though traffic can cause delays. Walking is often the best way to explore individual neighbourhoods, while yellow cabs and ride-hailing services are readily available for late-night journeys or direct point-to-point transit.

Manhattan and popular tourist areas are generally safe and active at all hours, but standard urban precautions apply. Keep personal belongings secure in crowded subway cars, busy stations, and tourist hubs, and remain aware of your surroundings late at night on quiet side streets. In an emergency, dial 911 for police, medical, or fire services.

Be cautious around major attractions like Times Square and Battery Park, where common scams include aggressive costumed characters demanding money for unsolicited photos, people handing out 'free' music CDs before aggressively demanding cash, and unauthorised street vendors selling counterfeit ferry or tour tickets. Always purchase attraction and transit tickets through official ticket desks or verified online platforms.

Tipping is customary across the city's service industry. In sit-down restaurants, standard tips range from 18% to 22% of the pre-tax bill, while bartenders typically receive $1 to $2 per drink. For yellow cabs and rideshares, a 15% to 20% gratuity is standard, and hotel bellhops usually receive $1 to $2 per bag.

Credit and debit cards with contactless payment capabilities are accepted almost everywhere, from fine dining venues to corner bodegas and transit gates. Carrying a small amount of US cash is useful for small tips, street food carts, or rare cash-only establishments. Use bank-affiliated ATMs rather than freestanding machines in convenience stores to avoid high transaction fees.

New Yorkers are generally polite but move at a brisk pace, so keep to the right on escalators, sidewalks, and subway stairs to maintain foot traffic flow. Dress codes are mostly casual and practical during the day, though high-end restaurants and theatre performances may require smart-casual or formal attire. Always check photography rules inside galleries and religious sites, as flash and tripods are frequently restricted.