Getting There
Airports
The New York metropolitan area has the busiest airport system in the United States and the second busiest in the world after London. It is also the most frequently used port of entry and departure for international flights. The metro area is served by three major airports, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). JFK and Newark are connected to regional rail systems by AirTrain JFK and AirTrain Newark respectively.Spring Weather in NYC
New York City tends to start warming up in March, but like Fall, temperatures can range greatly and the weather can be unpredictable. The temperature in May ranges in the 50° to 70°F (10 to 20°C). Spring and fall temperatures are mild and pleasant, whereas the winters can be harsh and summers humid. Restaurants will start seating outside and more vendors with stands will start popping up. You might want to bring a light jacket, sweater, or even an umbrella and raincoat.
Best Modes of Transportation in NYC
Bus
The MTA New York City Transit bus service operates in all five boroughs and uses about 4,500 buses. Many in the fleet are environmentally friendly hybrid-electric buses. Taking a bus around New York City is a great way to see the city as opposed to being underground on the subway, and an option for getting to places that the subway may not go. Like the subway, buses also run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, bus times vary and you may need to wait 10 to 15 minutes for one to come to your stop. Metro Cards can be used to pay for bus fare as well as exact change.
Subway
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority New York City Subway is one of the oldest, largest, and most extensive public transportation systems in the world, with 468 stations in operation. It’s a quick, easy, and cheap way of getting around New York City. The trains operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which is unique considering most cities’ public transit systems shut down over night. MetroCards can be purchased inside the subway stations at automated machines with cash, ATM bank cards, and credit cards. MetroCards can also be used to take New York City’s public buses.
Taxi
If you are in a hurry and willing to pay more for fare, yellow taxi cabs are an excellent option for getting around New York City—unless there is heavy traffic. But when there is not, taxis can famously get you where you need to be in a snap, just hold on tight. Hail a cab by raising your arm at any taxi that has an illuminated sign on its roof, which indicates its availability. Taking a taxi is also a good option if you are traveling with heavy luggage, as the driver will gladly pop the trunk and assist you. It can also be helpful to call a cab company to have one pick you up at a preferred time.
Pedicab
Certainly one of the more green and entertaining options, take in the scenery and beat the traffic by riding in the back of a pedicab through New York City. These bicycle-drawn carriages can carry two people comfortably, and can often be found in Central Park and Midtown. Pedicab drivers are often friendly and willing to help guide you to a place of interest or narrate your tour.
Walking
A great alternative to waiting for public transportation, paying fares, or sitting in traffic, New York City is a great walking city that’s easy to get around by foot. It can be surprising how quickly you can reach your destination in such a compact city. You can’t beat taking in scenery and getting exercise this way. However, there are etiquette rules for walking a sidewalk in New York City. Stay to the right if you want to walk slowly, which also applies to riding an escalator in the subway—stay to the right if you want a leisurely ride, or go to the left if you’re willing to hoof it. If you’re with a group, try not to crowd the sidewalk and allow room for people to pass. Don’t stop suddenly; it will anger those behind you. Always watch where you’re going, move quickly and accurately, look both ways before crossing the street, and watch out for pedicabs and bike messengers. Also, for best possible efficiency when walking on an avenue, walk in the direction the traffic is moving so you’ll be stopped less by Don’t Walk signs – yes someone did actually do the science behind this and it is 20% quicker walking with the traffic than against it.