I’m again dwelling in Yorkshire after spending 6 magical days and nights in New York Metropolis with my good good friend Harriet. It was a girly journey of sightseeing, procuring, brunching, rooftop bars, taxi hops and loads of photograph taking. I had dreamed of visiting New York for years and after a lot planning and anticipation, I can actually say it was the spotlight journey 2017. It was my first time in New York and regardless of all of the weblog posts I learn, nothing may have ready me for the surreal pleasure I felt as we drove over the Brooklyn Bridge by evening and right into a lit-up Manhattan. Each avenue nook appears prefer it could possibly be a movie set and we stumbled throughout iconic and vital landmarks in all places we went. I’d say it’s the first time I’ve ever actually been star struck by a metropolis. Who knew that was even attainable?
Though I had an countless record of suggestions from mates and fellow bloggers, the quantity of issues to do, see, eat and expertise in New York will be overwhelming. I keep in mind feeling confused about what to prioritise throughout my 6 treasured days within the metropolis. I’ve received a complete sequence of New York posts deliberate, however I needed to start out with a First Timer’s Information to New York. It’s because I actually was a primary timer within the huge metropolis.
Earlier than we get began on this (slightly meaty) information, I need to make a little bit of a disclaimer and say that this information isn’t going to incorporate all the new, different and ‘beneath the radar’ issues to do in New York. What it’s going to do, is assist you decipher the place on earth you need to start in the event you’re planning your very first journey to this charming, fast-paced and unimaginable metropolis. Similar to each different first timer in New York, I needed to see all the most well-known and iconic sights and while a few of these could seem cliché to a New Yorker, they’re nonetheless iconic for a motive. This information goes that will help you plan your days in a logical order, and can cross on all the greatest suggestions I used to be given. So get comfortable, seize a notepad and prepare for a bumper crash course to Manhattan.
First Timer’s Information to New York
A Little Geography
I’m going to start out with a little bit of primary geography. When folks discuss New York Metropolis, they’re usually referring to Manhattan. Manhattan is an island, sure by the Hudson River on the west and the East River to the east. It’s linked to the encompassing areas by bridges together with Brooklyn, The Bronx and Queens. Though little island of Manhattan is simply 13.4 miles lengthy and a pair of.3 miles huge, it positively pays to plan your days logically so that you just received’t be leaping all around the island unnecessarily. That is what Harriet and I attempted to do while in New York.
First Timer’s Information to New York
The place to Keep
There are accommodations throughout Manhattan however while you begin to do your analysis you’ll discover that they’re most densely populated in Midtown. Though downtown boasts the perfect nightlife, an ideal restaurant scene and cooler neighbourhood vibes, Midtown is a really central a part of Manhattan to base your self. I stayed in 3 accommodations throughout my time in New York, all of which have been boutique in model and well-located in Midtown. In the event you’re on the lookout for a trendy and central base in your first time in New York, make sure you try The Chambers Resort, The Royalton and The Tuscany by St Giles.
Learn my resort overview of The Royalton to search out out extra about this boutique resort in New York.
Take a look at extra cool accommodations in NYC.
First Timer’s Information to New York
Getting Round
In the event you base your self in Midtown then likelihood is among the most well-known points of interest shall be in strolling distance to your resort, together with Central Park, The Rockerfeller Centre, Fifth Avenue, Broadway exhibits and Instances Sq.. For every thing else that’s somewhat additional away, you’ve received the choice of the Subway or hailing a yellow cab. The subway ticket machines difficulty Metro Playing cards, which you’ll high up as you go or you should purchase 3 rides for $9. You’ll by no means have to attend various minutes to flag a yellow cab. Simply look out for those with the yellow lights on high and also you’ll be flagging like a New Yorker very quickly.
High Tip: In contrast to the London Underground, the Subway has categorical and native trains for all of their strains. The categorical trains skip some stops out for a quicker journey and the native trains cease at each cease (similar to the Tube). Make sure you test in the event you’re getting on an categorical practice or a neighborhood practice earlier than getting on it or chances are you’ll overshoot your vacation spot!
First Timer’s Information to New York
Save Cash with The New York Move
As a First Timer in New York it’s probably you’re going to need to see all the foremost sights, so that you may need to take into consideration getting a New York Move in your journey. The New York Move offers you all-inclusive entry to 90 of New York’s high points of interest so practically your whole actions will already be paid for while you arrive. It additionally permits you to fast-track the queues and gives unique reductions on exhibits, eating places and excursions. You may get the cross for 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 or 10 days, relying on the length of your keep.
Harriet and I received a 3-day New York Move throughout our time in New York so we deliberate our first 3 days across the inclusive points of interest. Not solely does it assist to plan your days, it can also prevent an enormous sum of money on admission charges. We visited the 9/11 Memorial Museum, High of The Rock and the Water Taxi Tour all with the New York Move and I couldn’t suggest it sufficient.
High Tip: You don’t essentially want to purchase a cross that may final your entire length of your journey. I might say {that a} 3-day cross can be supreme for a 5-day journey. It’s good to depart your self some free time in the direction of the tip of your metropolis break. On as of late you could possibly plan issues that don’t have admission charges corresponding to Central Park, The Highline and strolling the Brooklyn Bridge.
First Timer’s Information to New York
10 Should-Dos For a First Timer in New York
Each first timer in New York can have a distinct set of priorities relying on their pursuits, however these are the issues I selected to prioritise throughout my first time in New York Metropolis. In the event you’re on the lookout for a well-rounded and quintessential introduction to New York, you may simply need to add all of these items to your to-do record.
- High of The Rock at The Rockefeller Centre
For 360 diploma views of New York from above, go to the High of The Rock on the well-known Rockefeller Centre. The views are breath taking and the peak will get your adrenaline pumping. Right here you’ll get the easiest view of The Empire State Constructing. Admission is timed so anticipate queues in the event you’re visiting at peak instances. High of The Rock is included within the New York Move.
- Pay Respect at The Nationwide September 11 Memorial and Museum
Everyone knows in regards to the horrifying occasions of 9/11 however the magnitude of what occurred turns into a stark actuality while you’re standing precisely the place it occurred. A touching memorial can now be discovered the place the ‘twin towers’ as soon as stood and beneath them underground is the Nationwide September 11 Museum. A go to to this museum is chilling, coronary heart breaking and gripping in equal measure. Admission can also be included within the New York Move.
- Go to the Statue of Liberty
There are a number of boat excursions and ferry rides working from Battery Park in Downtown Manhattan, however we opted for the New York Water Taxi. You’ll be able to both select to hop on and off and totally different stops all through the day, or take a spherical journey, which takes about 1 hour and half-hour. We jumped on at Battery Park to see The Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty and sailed down The Hudson River earlier than hopping off on the Midtown cease. Alternatively, if you wish to really climb the Statue of Liberty and/or go to Ellis Island the one method to take action is through Statue Cruises, which you’ll e-book upfront.
High Tip: If the climate is ok, experience the water taxi at nightfall and also you may simply get to see the entire skyline with a dusky-pink backdrop
- Store ‘til you Drop in SoHo
It looks as if an apparent one, however everybody wants to permit somewhat time for procuring in New York. Fifth Avenue is essentially the most iconic procuring avenue with luxurious and designer shops in addition to a much-loved Victoria’s Secret. Macy’s Division Retailer is equally as iconic however I beloved the procuring expertise in SoHo essentially the most. It’s rather less busy with extra of a neighbourhood vibe. There’s a mini Bloomingdales there and the outlets are equally nearly as good.
- Stroll By Central Park
No journey to New York is full and not using a stroll by way of iconic Central Park. The winding pathways, bridges and streams create somewhat oasis within the bustling metropolis. We visited in November when the Autumn leaves have been nonetheless a vivid orange and the winter ice rink was open. Entertainers and buskers convey Central Park to life and The Boathouse gives an upmarket and iconic lunch spot. Reservations required.
- Stroll the Brooklyn Bridge
I can’t consider one human being that wouldn’t be blown away by the importance of the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s been in so many movies that I really like so to me this was such an thrilling factor to do. A pedestrian walkway suspends above the vehicles and takes you safely over to Brooklyn. As you strategy the Brooklyn facet you’ll see an unimaginable view of the Manhattan skyline. Crossing the bridge is totally free.
- Sip Cocktails at some Rooftop Bars
New York is rife with impossibly cool rooftop bars however except you understand the place to go, it’s unlikely that you just’ll discover them. We went to The High of The Normal (often known as The Growth Growth Room) at The Normal Resort, which is an well-liked spot with in-crowd New Yorkers. Be ready to pay round $20 for a cocktail, however the views make it more-than price it (they do a imply Cosmopolitan). The Roof at The Public Resort and Mr Purple at Resort Indigo are additionally nice and are each situated in Downtown Manhattan. Public is not far away from Vandal Restaurant which has an ideal meals and a incredible pre-night out vibe. Do the identical as us and mix each on one evening!
- Hunt for Foodie Delights at Chelsea Market
Ever since we landed at JFK airport I couldn’t wait to style my first slice of New York pizza , which I discovered at Chelsea Market. Chelsea Market is a neighborhood’s favorite and a haven for foodies. There are many meals stalls and pop-up model eating places to select from so no matter you’re craving, you’ll in all probability discover it right here. There are additionally impartial outlets so it’s an ideal place to choose up a couple of souvenirs too.
- Stroll the Highline to The Meat Packing District
The Highline is a 1.45 mile lengthy park which is elevated over the west facet of Manhattan. It was created on the previous New York Central railroad, so it’s an extremely distinctive addition to the town. We ‘hopped on’ to the Highline and Chelsea Market and ‘hopped off’ on the finish of the road within the Meatpacking district. It offers a novel perspective of the decrease west Manhattan and being pedestrian solely it feels much more calmer than strolling the streets of New York. Entry to the Excessive Line is free.
- Go to Carrie Bradshaw’s Condo
In the event you’re not a Intercourse in The Metropolis fan, chances are you’ll need to skip this one out. Nonetheless, if you’re a Intercourse in The Metropolis fan, it might be against the law not go to Carrie Bradshaw’s house. The well-known ‘stoop’ (or steps) was used all through your entire SATC sequence and the movies. It’s situated at 66 Percy Avenue within the stylish West Village and also you’re more likely to see no less than a couple of different SATC followers taking photographs on the street too.
First Timer’s Information to New York
Foodie Suggestions
From informal brunch and lunch choices to upmarket night dinners for glamorous nights out, right here is my decide of the New York foodie scene. I visited all of those locations throughout my first journey to New York.
Upmarket Eating places for Properly-Dressed Dinners
Tao Downtown
92 ninth Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA
If you wish to go ‘all-out’ in NYC, make a reservation for dinner at Tao Downtown. This pan-Asian underground restaurant feels virtually club-like and is dimly lit with candles and horny lighting. It’s the right place to decorate up and luxuriate in some cocktails alongside scrumptious sushi and Asian bites. It’s all the time packed and all the time buzzing. Reservations important.
Vandal
199 Bowery, New York, NY 10002, USA
One other buzzy, trendy but expensive dinner possibility is Vandal on Bowery. The interiors are very inventive and the environment is incredible. The menu is filled with worldwide small plates, that are designed to be shared. That is the place the ‘in crowds’ hang around. Reservations important.
La Esquina
114 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Hidden away beneath a run-down canteen is La Esquina, probably certainly one of New York’s coolest eating places. You’d by no means discover it except you have been within the know, particularly due to the speak-easy model reception. La Esquina is a hub of underground exercise with a horny bar and darkish restaurant serving up Mexican meals that’s to-die-for. Reservations important.
Informal Eateries serving Wonderful, Reasonably priced Meals
Pure Thai Cookhouse
766 ninth Ave #2, New York, NY 10019, USA
I can’t actually take the credit score for locating this gem of a Thai restaurant because it was beneficial to me by Hayley from Frock Me I’m Well-known. It was probably the perfect suggestion of the journey. The Thai meals was genuine, contemporary and extremely scrumptious. Make a reservation or simply present up for lunch or an early dinner. The vibe at Pure Thai Cookhouse may be very informal.
Dim Sim Palace
334 W forty sixth St, New York, NY 10036, USA
We discovered Dim Sum Palace once we have been craving dim sum for a late lunch in the future. The interiors are extraordinarily low-key however the service is environment friendly. There’s a enormous dim sum menu and every thing that we ordered off it was contemporary and scrumptious. They do a Completely happy Hour from 3pm-5pm, which supplies you 50% off all sushi. Even with out the Completely happy Hour although, it’s nonetheless inexpensive.
Serafina Fabulous Pizza
1022 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10075, USA
Serafina is a superb possibility for lunch in the event you’re visiting Central Park, because it’s a brief stroll away on the Higher East Aspect. This authentically Italian restaurant is certainly a neighbourhood favorite that has stood the check of time. Relaxation assured that something you order right here shall be scrumptious. This place can also be informal.
The Finest Lunch and Brunch Spots
Sarabeth’s
Numerous Areas
Sarabeth’s is an upmarket restaurant chain that’s well-known by New Yorkers. It serves every thing from brunch by way of to dinner and has a light-weight, shiny inside. There are a couple of totally different branches round Manhattan so decide the one which works for you. Particular due to the Sarabeth’s waiter who cured my hangover with a salty soda water and lime juice. It really works!
Crimson Flame Diner
67 W forty fourth St #1, New York, NY 10036, USA
This place was over the street from us once we have been staying at The Royalton. In the event you’re on the lookout for a primary All-American diner expertise, the Crimson Flame Diner is the place to come back. The décor feels prefer it hasn’t modified because the 60’s however that’s all a part of the allure. Come right here for breakfast or brunch and check out the waffles. The service is primitive however the meals is basic, indulgent and completely scrumptious.
Shuka
38 Macdougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Final however under no circumstances least is Shuka, an aesthetically lovely restaurant in SoHo serving up scrumptious Center Jap and Jap Mediterranean bites. The beetroot hummus and halloumi bites are an absolute should. The menu is designed for sharing and the waiters are glad to suggest issues. The espresso can also be nice. Come right here for lunch adopted by some procuring in Soho. You’ll not be upset.
First Timer’s Information to New York
Tipping Etiquette in New York
First timers visiting New York might not be conscious of the tipping tradition there, and in the entire of the USA for that matter. Suggestions make up a big a part of wages in sure hospitality jobs subsequently tipping is all the time anticipated, and never simply 10%. Common suggestions in eating places are anticipated to vary between 15%-22% of the whole invoice and more often than not the elective quantities are marked down on the receipt. Taxi drivers and resort employees additionally anticipate to be tipped, however it’s exhausting to place a strong quantity on how a lot that needs to be. We all the time rounded up our taxis and gave a couple of {dollars} to bellboys and doormen flagging our cabs. Give what you’ll be able to afford and do not forget that a small gesture is healthier than nothing in any respect. As a Brit, such an intense tipping tradition will be troublesome to get your head round.
High Tip: At all times attempt to have some single {dollars} and 5 greenback notes in your pockets always to keep away from being caught quick. In the event you’re on a price range, keep in mind to consider the price of the tip when deciding the place to eat. If the invoice for the meals goes to be excessive, so will the tip.
First Timer’s Information to New York
Getting There
I flew to New York with Norwegian Air, who’ve just lately launched a double day by day service to New York from Gatwick Airport. This implies they fly twice a day, daily. Norwegian Air function a fleet of brand name new Boeing 787 Dreamliners with cabins for Premium and Economic system. I received to expertise Premium Class with Norwegian air, which I shall be reviewing in a separate weblog submit. Fares begin from £149 one-way in economic system and £499 a method in Premium together with all taxes and expenses.
In the event you’re studying this, then thanks for persevering all the best way to the tip of this prolonged submit! I actually hope that it’s going to are available helpful for some First Timers in New York, and maybe it’s supplied a couple of concepts for people who find themselves already acquainted with Manhattan too. I can actually say I fell in love with New York and I can already really feel a magnetic pull again to the town that I do know will final a lifetime.
Wish to learn extra posts about New York? Take a look at;
- What I Wore in NYC
- My overview of The Royalton Resort – a wonderful boutique resort in Midtown
Are you planning your first journey to New York or have you learnt the town effectively and might provide some extra recommendation for First Timers? Both method, I’d love to listen to from you so please go away a remark within the field beneath. X
