This really has nothing to do with the theme of this blog, but after a year and a half in New York I learned some things about how to get around. For seasoned New Yorkers there are probably a few “duh!” tidbits, but it’s stuff I wish someone would’ve told me as a newbie.
Subway
When you get on a train move all the way into the center of the car. Don’t be afraid. It’s the only way all of us are going to fit.
Hold on! Don’t try to look cool by trying to surf in the subway. You will trip and people will be pissed. Stops are not gentle.
You will be pressed against other people’s sweaty bodies. It’s part of the experience.
Let people off before you get on. It amazes me that folks don’t do that.
Use the subway. Most visitors get scared and just grab a cab. It’s way cheaper and a lot of the times much quicker to head underground.
Local means it stops - a lot.
Yes. 42nd street is Times Square. Yes. 42nd street is Grand Central. They are on opposite sides of the city. They are not the same place. Just like all 34th street stops are not Penn Station.
Download the HopStop app. It has a subway map that works underground.
Your cell will rarely work in the subway.
The Bus
Unless you’re crossing town at 14th, 42nd or 53rd the bus system is the best way to get across town. It’s highly underrated, but busses are awesome. They have AC, drivers are usually pleasant, they’re usually less crowded and your cell phone works. Total winner.
Walking
Don’t look for directions on the corners. They are the most highly trafficked areas. Scootch over.
Often even streets (not avenues) go east. Remember E for east and even.
Greenwich Village makes no sense and all the streets run diagonal. You’re not dumb. The place is super confusing.
Avenues are way, way, way longer than blocks.
20 blocks is a mile.
People will give you directions if you ask.
I’m sure they’re are more. I hope this helps you feel a little more savvy the next time you visit NYC.
