🇺🇸 Your Personalized 4-Day United States Itinerary: New York City

After arriving at one of New York’s major airports (JFK, LGA, or EWR), transfer to your Manhattan hotel. Once settled, your exploration begins. Take the subway or a taxi to Times Square. Spend some time absorbing the spectacle of the lights, the crowds, and the street performers. It’s a quintessential NYC experience. From there, walk a few blocks east to Rockefeller Center. Pre-booking tickets for the Top of the Rock Observation Deck is highly recommended to save time. The multi-level viewing platforms offer stunning, unobstructed 360-degree views. Plan to go up about an hour before sunset to see the city in daylight, watch the sun go down, and witness the skyline transform into a glittering tapestry of lights. After your descent, take a stroll past St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the upscale shops along Fifth Avenue before finding a spot for dinner in the lively Theater District.

For Young Travelers: After Top of the Rock, dive into the vibrant nightlife of Hell’s Kitchen, known for its diverse range of bars and restaurants. Alternatively, catch a late-night comedy show at a club in the Theater District for an authentic NYC entertainment experience.
For Seniors: Consider a hop-on, hop-off bus tour for an overview of Midtown without extensive walking. The Top of the Rock is fully accessible with elevators. Choose a pre-theater dinner in the Theater District, enjoying a world-class meal before the main crowds arrive for their shows.
For Families: Kids will be mesmerized by the lights of Times Square and the giant M&M’s and Disney stores. The observation deck at Top of the Rock is a thrilling experience for all ages. Consider dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where the waitstaff are aspiring Broadway performers who sing show tunes.
For Travelers with Disabilities: Midtown Manhattan is largely accessible, though crowded. Most subway stations have elevators, but it’s crucial to check an MTA accessibility map in real-time as they can be out of service. Top of the Rock, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and most major stores are wheelchair accessible.

Luxury Travel: Arrange for a private helicopter tour for an unparalleled aerial view of the Manhattan skyline. Follow this with a bespoke shopping experience with a personal stylist on Fifth Avenue. For dinner, secure a reservation at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Le Bernardin for an exquisite seafood tasting menu.
Adventure Travel: Instead of a traditional observation deck, consider the “City Climb” at Edge in Hudson Yards for a thrilling experience where you scale the outside of a skyscraper. It’s the ultimate urban adventure for adrenaline junkies. Afterwards, explore the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway.
Nature Lovers: Find a moment of tranquility amidst the concrete by visiting Bryant Park. Located just behind the New York Public Library, this charming park is a beautifully maintained urban oasis. You can relax on the lawn, watch a free performance (seasonal), and enjoy a green space with the iconic skyline as your backdrop.

Choosing the right hotel in New York is crucial for a great experience. For a dose of timeless luxury and history, The Plaza, situated on Central Park South, offers opulent rooms and legendary service. For a trendy, boutique experience with a vibrant social scene and stunning rooftop bar, Arlo NoMad is a fantastic choice, known for its cleverly designed compact rooms and prime location. A highly-rated mid-range option that offers great value and comfort is the CitizenM New York Bowery, which provides modern amenities and easy access to multiple subway lines for exploring the entire city. These hotels cater to different budgets while ensuring a comfortable and well-located base for your adventures.

Upon arrival, purchase a MetroCard or set up the OMNY tap-to-pay system on your smartphone or contactless card. The subway is the most efficient and authentic way to navigate New York City, bypassing the often-gridlocked traffic. A 7-day unlimited pass can be cost-effective if you plan on taking more than 12 rides during your stay. Otherwise, the pay-per-ride option with OMNY has a weekly fare cap; after 12 taps in a Monday-to-Sunday week, the rest of your rides are free. Before you travel, download a city navigation app that includes subway maps and real-time service updates. This will be an invaluable tool for planning your routes, understanding which train to take (uptown/downtown, express/local), and navigating any unexpected service changes, making your travel around the city significantly smoother.

For a day exploring Midtown Manhattan, comfortable shoes are your most important accessory. You will be doing a significant amount of walking on hard pavement. Stylish sneakers, comfortable flats, or boots are all excellent choices. Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable, and temperatures can vary between the sunny streets and air-conditioned indoor spaces. Opt for “smart casual” attire—think well-fitting jeans or trousers with a nice top, sweater, or blazer. This will ensure you feel comfortable in tourist spots like Times Square but also appropriate for a nicer dinner or a visit to an upscale lounge in the evening. A crossbody bag is ideal for keeping your belongings secure and your hands free for taking pictures.

The area around Times Square and the Theater District is filled with dining options, but many are tourist traps. To find authentic food, you need to know where to look. For a classic New York slice of pizza, head to a reputable spot like Joe’s Pizza or John’s of Times Square. For a fantastic pre-theater meal, the collection of restaurants on 46th Street, known as “Restaurant Row,” offers a variety of cuisines and price points. A standout is Becco, owned by Lidia Bastianich, known for its all-you-can-eat pasta special. For a more casual but iconic experience, grab a gourmet burger and a shake at Shake Shack. These options provide a true taste of New York’s diverse food scene, away from the generic chain restaurants that dominate the immediate Times Square area.

Getting to your hotel from any of the three major airports (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark) can be done in several ways. The most cost-effective option from JFK is the AirTrain and subway combination. Taxis offer convenience and have a flat fare from JFK to Manhattan. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also readily available at all airports. Once you’re in Manhattan, the city’s grid system makes walking a great way to explore neighborhoods. For today’s itinerary, Times Square and Rockefeller Center are within easy walking distance of each other. The subway system is your best friend for longer distances. The Times Sq-42nd St station is one of the city’s largest hubs, connecting you to virtually anywhere you need to go.

Start your day in Lower Manhattan by taking the subway to the World Trade Center station. Begin with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Allow at least two to three hours for this experience; the museum is extensive. Pre-booking tickets is essential. Afterwards, take some time to reflect at the memorial’s serene twin reflecting pools. From there, walk through the Financial District. See the iconic Charging Bull statue and Fearless Girl, walk down Wall Street, and see the exterior of the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall. In the afternoon, head towards the Brooklyn Bridge. Before crossing, you can grab a quick bite to eat. The walk across the bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn takes about 30-45 minutes at a leisurely pace and offers incredible photo opportunities of the Lower Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Manhattan Bridge. Once in Brooklyn, explore the charming DUMBO neighborhood before taking the subway back to Manhattan.

For Young Travelers: After walking the Brooklyn Bridge, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Brooklyn like DUMBO and Williamsburg. Discover street art, independent boutiques, and enjoy the vibrant bar scene. Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s Pizza under the bridge are iconic dinner spots.
For Seniors: The 9/11 Museum is extensive; consider focusing on a few key exhibits or joining a guided tour to manage your time and energy. The Brooklyn Bridge walk can be crowded; an alternative is to take a ferry from Wall Street (Pier 11) to DUMBO to get the same fantastic views without the long walk.
For Families: While the 9/11 Museum may be too intense for young children, the outdoor Memorial can be visited. The nearby SeaGlass Carousel at The Battery is a magical experience for kids. In DUMBO, Jane’s Carousel and the playgrounds in Brooklyn Bridge Park are family favorites.
For Travelers with Disabilities: The 9/11 Memorial and Museum are fully accessible. The Financial District’s streets are paved. The pedestrian path on the Brooklyn Bridge is accessible, though it can be crowded and bumpy. A ferry provides a more comfortable alternative for skyline views.

Luxury Travel: Arrange for a private, guided tour of the Financial District and 9/11 Memorial with a historian. Instead of walking the bridge, take a private sailboat cruise in the New York Harbor at sunset, offering champagne and unparalleled views of the skyline, Statue of Liberty, and the bridges.
Adventure Travel: Rent bicycles and cycle across the Brooklyn Bridge for a more dynamic experience. Continue your ride by exploring the greenways and paths of the expansive Brooklyn Bridge Park, which offers fantastic recreational spaces and stunning views.
Nature Lovers: After the intensity of the Financial District, find a peaceful retreat at The Battery at the southern tip of Manhattan. This historic park offers beautiful gardens, waterfront promenades, and a connection to nature with views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

Your chosen hotel remains your home base for today’s downtown exploration. A luxurious stay at The Plaza provides an uptown sanctuary to return to after a day immersed in the city’s history. The central location of Arlo NoMad makes the subway ride to the World Trade Center quick and convenient. For those at CitizenM New York Bowery, you are already situated downtown, making it incredibly easy to start your day and providing a nearby place to rest before heading out again. All these options offer excellent connectivity via the subway to the Financial District, ensuring your journey to the day’s historic sites is as smooth as possible.

When walking the Brooklyn Bridge, always start from the Manhattan side and walk towards Brooklyn. This direction provides the most dramatic and rewarding views, as you are constantly walking towards the iconic Lower Manhattan skyline. The pedestrian walkway can get extremely crowded, especially in the middle of the day and on weekends. To avoid the biggest crowds, try to start your walk early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Stay in the designated pedestrian lane to avoid conflicts with cyclists, who often travel at high speeds. Once you arrive in Brooklyn, you are perfectly positioned to explore the scenic DUMBO neighborhood and enjoy a well-deserved meal with a view, making it a perfect conclusion to the crossing.

Today involves even more walking than the first day, so comfortable footwear is absolutely non-negotiable. Wear your most supportive sneakers or walking shoes. The weather can be windy on the Brooklyn Bridge, so a windbreaker or an extra layer is highly recommended, even on a warm day. Since you will be visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, it is advisable to dress respectfully. While there is no formal dress code, overly casual or revealing clothing might feel out of place in such a solemn environment. Opt for smart casual attire. As always, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended as much of the day will be spent outdoors. A backpack can be useful for carrying water, snacks, and any layers you remove.

Lower Manhattan and the DUMBO neighborhood in Brooklyn offer fantastic dining options. For lunch near the World Trade Center, explore the upscale food court at Brookfield Place, which features a variety of high-quality vendors. For a classic New York experience, grab a pastrami sandwich at the legendary Katz’s Delicatessen (a subway ride away, but worth it) or its downtown outpost. Once you’ve crossed into Brooklyn, the DUMBO neighborhood is famous for its pizza. The debate rages between Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and Juliana’s Pizza—both are located right next to each other and serve incredible brick-oven pizza. For a sweet treat, the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory offers delicious ice cream with an unbeatable view of the Manhattan skyline. These spots offer iconic tastes that are integral to the New York City experience.

The subway is the most efficient way to reach Lower Manhattan. The World Trade Center Transportation Hub (the “Oculus”) is a destination in itself and is served by numerous subway lines (e.g., the E, 1, R, W). The Financial District, 9/11 Memorial, and the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge are all within a compact, walkable area. After walking across the bridge into Brooklyn, you can explore DUMBO on foot. To return to Manhattan, you can take the F train from York Street or the A/C trains from High Street. Alternatively, the NYC Ferry provides a scenic and enjoyable ride back to Manhattan from the DUMBO/Fulton Ferry terminal, offering a different perspective on the skyline you just walked away from.

Start your day on the Upper East Side. Take the subway to 86th Street and walk towards Fifth Avenue, which is known as “Museum Mile.” Your primary destination is The Metropolitan Museum of Art (“The Met”). With over two million works, it’s impossible to see everything. Plan ahead by looking at the museum map online and choosing a few galleries that interest you most, such as the Egyptian Art wing with the Temple of Dendur, the American Wing, or the European Paintings. Allow at least three to four hours. After your museum visit, it’s time to explore Central Park, which is located directly behind The Met. You can enter the park and wander aimlessly, or have a few key sights in mind. Consider a stroll to Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, a visit to Strawberry Fields, a walk across Bow Bridge, or simply relaxing on the Great Lawn. You can rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse or rent a bike to cover more ground.

For Young Travelers: After The Met, rent a Citi Bike and cycle the full 6-mile loop around Central Park for an active way to see the park’s diverse landscapes. In the evening, explore the vibrant and historic nightlife of Greenwich Village, catching some live music at a legendary club.
For Seniors: The Met is vast; consider a guided “highlights” tour to see the masterpieces without getting overwhelmed. In Central Park, a horse-drawn carriage ride or a pedicab tour offers a relaxing way to see the main sights without extensive walking. The Conservatory Garden on the park’s east side is a beautiful and tranquil spot.
For Families: The Met offers family guides and audio tours to engage children. Central Park is a giant playground. Families will love the Central Park Zoo, the famous Carousel, and the many playgrounds scattered throughout the park. A picnic on Sheep Meadow is a classic family activity.
For Travelers with Disabilities: The Metropolitan Museum of Art is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Central Park has paved pathways throughout, making many of the main attractions like Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields wheelchair accessible. The park’s visitor centers can provide accessibility maps.

Luxury Travel: Arrange a private, before-hours tour of The Met for an exclusive viewing of its collections with an art historian. Afterwards, enjoy a gourmet picnic in Central Park, pre-arranged by a high-end caterer, complete with champagne and fine foods. In the evening, attend a world-class performance at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
Adventure Travel: Go bouldering in Central Park. The park has several large rock outcroppings, like Rat Rock and Cat Rock, that are popular with local climbers. It’s a unique way to get a workout and experience a different side of the park’s landscape.
Nature Lovers: Central Park is a birdwatching paradise, especially during the spring and fall migrations. Head to The Ramble, a 38-acre woodland area in the heart of the park, with your binoculars to spot some of the hundreds of bird species that pass through this vital urban habitat. It feels like a world away from the city streets.

After a day of art and nature, returning to your comfortable hotel is a welcome prospect. The prestigious location of The Plaza is ideal, as it sits right at the southeast corner of Central Park, making it an effortless stroll home. For those at Arlo NoMad or CitizenM New York Bowery, a straightforward subway ride on the 4, 5, or 6 trains will connect you directly from the Museum Mile area back to your hotel. All options provide easy access to today’s activities while offering a comfortable retreat to recharge for your final day in the city, blending cultural immersion with the convenience of a well-chosen base.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a “pay-what-you-wish” admission policy for New York State residents and students, but for all other visitors, there is a fixed admission fee. To save significant time, purchase your tickets online in advance. This allows you to bypass the often-long ticket queues and head straight to the entrance. Also, be aware that the museum is enormous. It’s best to download a museum map to your phone beforehand and choose two or three wings or exhibits you are most interested in seeing. Trying to see everything in one visit is impossible and will lead to exhaustion. A focused approach will make your visit much more enjoyable and rewarding, allowing you to fully appreciate the art without feeling rushed.

Today’s attire should be a blend of museum-appropriate and park-ready. For The Met, opt for smart casual clothing. Comfortable yet stylish walking shoes are essential, as you will be on your feet for hours inside the museum and then walking in the park. Consider wearing breathable fabrics. For Central Park, you’ll want to be comfortable and ready for activity. If you plan on biking or rowing, ensure your clothing allows for easy movement. A light jacket or sweater is always a good idea in New York, as the weather can change, and it can be cooler in the shaded areas of the park. Don’t forget your sunglasses and a hat for sun protection while you’re enjoying the outdoors. A versatile outfit will take you seamlessly from the galleries to the great outdoors.

The Upper East Side offers a range of dining, from elegant cafes to casual eateries. Inside The Met itself, there are several dining options, including the casual American Wing Cafe and the more formal Great Hall Balcony Cafe. For a classic New York experience, grab a hot dog or a pretzel from a food cart at the entrance to Central Park. For a more substantial meal, consider having a picnic. You can pick up gourmet sandwiches, cheeses, and salads from a deli like Zabar’s or Eli’s Market on your way to the park. For a lovely sit-down meal inside the park, the Loeb Boathouse Central Park offers beautiful lakeside dining (reservations are highly recommended). These options allow you to choose between a quick bite, a classic NYC experience, or a more leisurely, scenic meal.

The best way to get to Museum Mile is by subway. The 4, 5, and 6 trains run along Lexington Avenue on the East Side, with stops at 86th Street, which is a short walk from The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The M1, M2, M3, and M4 buses also run up Madison and Fifth Avenues, stopping directly in front of the museum. Once you are at The Met, Central Park is directly accessible from the back of the museum. The best way to explore the park itself is on foot, by renting a bicycle, or by hiring a pedicab. Bicycles can be rented from numerous vendors located along the park’s perimeter. Walking allows for the most intimate experience, letting you discover the park’s many hidden gems at your own pace.

Depending on your flight schedule, spend your final morning exploring a different borough. Take the L train from Manhattan to Bedford Avenue, the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Spend a few hours walking through the neighborhood, popping into unique vintage stores, bookstores, and record shops. Enjoy the vibrant street art and people-watching from a local coffee shop. Walk towards the waterfront to visit Domino Park, a creatively designed park on the site of the former Domino Sugar Refinery, which offers fantastic views of the Williamsburg Bridge and the Manhattan skyline. Enjoy a final, delicious New York meal in the neighborhood. Afterwards, take the subway back to your hotel to pick up your luggage and proceed to the airport for your departure. This provides a perfect, low-stress final chapter to your NYC journey.

For Young Travelers: Dive deep into Williamsburg’s vintage scene or explore the neighboring Bushwick Collective, an outdoor gallery of incredible street art and murals. Grab a bite at Smorgasburg (if it’s a weekend), a massive outdoor food market with dozens of vendors.
For Seniors: Focus on the scenic and relaxing aspects. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at a comfortable cafe in Williamsburg. Domino Park is a great destination, as it has plenty of seating, level walking paths, and beautiful views, offering a pleasant and accessible final morning activity.
For Families: Domino Park is fantastic for kids, with a unique, factory-themed playground and a fun water feature. The East River Ferry is another great option, providing a fun boat ride with amazing views that will delight all ages.
For Travelers with Disabilities: The main streets of Williamsburg are flat and navigable. Domino Park is fully accessible. The NYC Ferry terminals are also accessible, providing a great way to enjoy the waterfront. The Bedford Avenue L train station has an elevator, making it accessible from Manhattan.

Luxury Travel: Enjoy a final gourmet brunch at a high-end Williamsburg restaurant like The Four Horsemen or Lilia (book far in advance). Hire a private car service for a tour of Brooklyn’s most picturesque neighborhoods, from Williamsburg to historic Brooklyn Heights, before being chauffeured directly to the airport.
Adventure Travel: Rent a bike in Williamsburg and explore the neighborhood on two wheels. Ride along the waterfront greenways, cross the Williamsburg Bridge back into Manhattan for one last thrill, and experience the city’s cycling culture firsthand.
Nature Lovers: Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (a short subway ride from Williamsburg) for a final dose of natural beauty. Its themed gardens, including the famous Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden and the Cranford Rose Garden, provide a stunning and peaceful escape before the hustle of the airport.

On your departure day, you will check out from your hotel. The staff at The Plaza, Arlo NoMad, or CitizenM New York Bowery can assist with luggage storage, allowing you to explore Brooklyn freely. Booking an airport transfer in advance through your hotel’s concierge can provide peace of mind and a seamless end to your trip. The central locations of these hotels ensure that whether you are taking the subway or a car, you have a straightforward journey back from your Brooklyn excursion and then onward to JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark airport, concluding your trip with convenience and ease.

For your departure, give yourself more time than you think you will need to get to the airport. New York City traffic is notoriously unpredictable, and delays on subways and roads are common. A good rule of thumb is to plan to be at the airport three hours before an international flight and two hours before a domestic flight. Confirm your transportation method in advance. If taking a taxi or ride-share, check traffic apps for estimated travel times. If taking the subway and AirTrain, be aware of any planned weekend service changes, which are frequent. A stress-free departure is the best way to end a fantastic trip, so erring on the side of caution with your timing is always the smartest choice.

Comfort is the absolute priority for your last day of travel. Wear an outfit that is comfortable for both walking around Brooklyn and for sitting on a plane for several hours. Athleisure wear, soft trousers, or comfortable jeans are all great choices. Stick with your most comfortable pair of shoes, preferably ones that are easy to slip on and off at airport security. Dressing in layers is also crucial for travel days. A t-shirt, a cozy sweater or hoodie, and perhaps a light jacket will allow you to adjust to the temperature changes from the city streets to the chilly airplane cabin. Ensure your travel documents are in an easily accessible pocket or bag to make your airport experience as smooth as possible.

Williamsburg is a foodie’s paradise. For a fantastic final brunch, try a popular spot like Sunday in Brooklyn or Cafe Mogador for delicious and atmospheric dining. For an iconic taste of the neighborhood, grab a slice of pizza from Joe’s Pizza or Best Pizza. If you have a sweet tooth, a visit to Martha’s Country Bakery for a slice of cake or pie is a must. The neighborhood is also famous for its excellent coffee shops, so be sure to grab a high-quality latte from a local roaster like Devoción or Blue Bottle Coffee. These options provide a true taste of Brooklyn’s vibrant and diverse culinary scene, making for a memorable final meal of your trip.

Getting to Williamsburg from Manhattan is simple. The L subway line runs directly from 14th Street in Manhattan to Bedford Avenue in the heart of Williamsburg in just a few stops. It’s a quick and efficient journey. Another, more scenic option is the NYC Ferry. You can catch the ferry from terminals at East 34th Street or Wall Street/Pier 11, and it stops at North Williamsburg and South Williamsburg. This offers a beautiful boat ride on the East River with great views. Once in Williamsburg, the neighborhood is best explored on foot. For your return journey to the airport, you’ll travel from your hotel via subway, taxi, or a pre-booked car service.

The United States offers a vast array of yoga and wellness retreats catering to every preference, from luxury spa resorts to rustic spiritual centers. Destinations like Sedona, Arizona, are world-renowned for their vortex energy and spiritual healing retreats. California, particularly areas like Big Sur and Ojai, boasts numerous centers focused on yoga, meditation, and organic cuisine. For those seeking tranquility and nature, retreats can be found in the mountains of Colorado, the forests of the Berkshires in Massachusetts, or even the tropical landscapes of Hawaii. While this New York City itinerary is fast-paced and urban, many yoga studios in the city, such as Kula Yoga Project or Yoga Vida, offer drop-in classes for travelers looking to find a moment of peace and maintain their practice amidst the city’s hustle.

• Clothing: Versatile layers are key. Pack t-shirts, sweaters, a light jacket, and a rain-proof outer layer. Include a mix of casual (jeans, comfortable trousers) and smart-casual outfits.
• Footwear: At least two pairs of comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• Documents: Passport and visa (if required), driver’s license, travel insurance, and digital/physical copies of all important documents.
• Health: Any personal medications, a basic first-aid kit, and hand sanitizer. Health care in the US is expensive, so travel insurance is crucial.
• Electronics: Smartphone, portable power bank, camera, and a plug adapter (Type A/B, 120V).
• Miscellaneous: Reusable water bottle, backpack or crossbody bag for daily use, and sunglasses.

Shopping in the United States is an experience in itself, with options ranging from mega-malls and luxury boutiques to quirky independent shops and outlet centers. In New York City, Fifth Avenue is home to world-famous luxury brands and iconic department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman. SoHo is known for its trendy boutiques and cast-iron architecture, while Greenwich Village offers more eclectic and vintage finds. Remember that sales tax is added at the register and varies by state and city (in NYC, clothing and footwear under $110 are exempt from city and state sales tax). For bargains, consider a trip to an outlet mall like Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, located outside the city, where you can find designer brands at a significant discount.

Many nationalities can enter the US for up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) by obtaining an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Other nationalities will need to apply for a B-2 tourist visa at a US embassy or consulate. Always check the official U.S. Department of State website for the specific requirements for your country of citizenship well in advance of your trip.

The currency is the U.S. Dollar ($). Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted almost everywhere. It is a good idea to have some cash for small purchases, tips, or in case of card machine issues, but the US is largely a cashless society.

Tipping is a significant part of the culture and service industry wages. In restaurants with table service, a tip of 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard. For bartenders, $1-2 per drink is common. Tip taxi drivers 10-15%, and hotel porters $1-2 per bag.

The US is generally safe for tourists, but like any country, safety varies by location. In large cities like New York, be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying expensive valuables, and be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas. Use common sense and stick to well-lit, populated areas at night.

The universal emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services across the United States is 911.

Yes, absolutely. Healthcare in the United States is extremely expensive, and a medical emergency without insurance can be financially devastating. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

The standard voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz. The plugs are Type A (two flat pins) and Type B (two flat pins and a grounding pin). You will likely need a voltage converter and/or a plug adapter for your electronic devices if they are not from North America.

The best way to get around is the subway system, which runs 24/7. It’s extensive and cost-effective. Walking is also a great way to see the city. Yellow taxis are iconic and readily available, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also very popular.

Yes, the tap water in New York City is of excellent quality and is perfectly safe to drink. Carrying a reusable water bottle is a great way to stay hydrated and save money.

Most hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. The city also has public Wi-Fi hotspots, especially in subway stations and parks through the LinkNYC kiosks. For constant connectivity, consider purchasing a US SIM card upon arrival or an international eSIM before you travel.