GETTING HERE
Whichever airline you choose to fl y with, you’ll be landing at one of NYC’s three airports: JFK, LaGuardia and Newark ( technically in New Jersey). Each off ers a range of transport options for reaching the city, but if you choose to go by taxi, it’s worth knowing that these are metered from LaGuardia and Newark, while taxis from JFK are charged at a fl at rate of $ 52.50 ( plus tolls and a tip).
Don’t forget that you’ll also need an approved US visa to visit NYC. The easiest option for British citizens is an ESTA, which costs $ 14 and can be used again on subsequent trips to the States within a two- year period. You should apply for an ESTA at least three days before your trip.
GETTING AROUND
When it comes to making your way from A to B once you’re in the Big Apple, there are plenty of options
MTA
The MTA Subway and Bus system encompasses much of the city and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with MetroCards available from station vending machines. You can either load credit onto your MetroCard ( initial minimum load of $ 5.50), or buy unlimited seven or 30- day passes. A seven- day pass costs $ 32.
Taxis
As well as the iconic yellow taxis that are synonymous with NYC, there are also a number of apps you can use such as Uber and Lyft. Although Uber will be familiar to many Brits, Lyft is a similar on- demand transportation service that’s a popular alternative in the US. Generally, travelling by Uber or Lyft will cost around 20 per cent less than a yellow cab. Don’t forget that a 15- 20 per cent tip is expected on all rides.
Ferries
Not always the most practical option for travel, but if you’re looking for a diff erent view of the city, NYC’s ferry system can take you uptown, downtown and across to Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and New Jersey. Take the free Staten Island Ferry for a 25- minute mini- cruise with views of the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbour and Lower Manhattan.
Cycling
NYC’s bike- sharing scheme, Citi Bike, has thousands of bikes at hundreds of stations around the city. You can unlock a bike at any time of day, and dock it at any other station once you’ve reached your destination. Daily, three- day and annual passes are available. There are also plenty of private bike rental outfi ts, some of which off er tours, or you can fi nd a pedicab and let someone else do the hard work for you.
Helicopter
See the city spread out beneath you in all its glory on an exhilarating helicopter ride! There are several companies off ering helicopter tours; for more information, check out nycgo. com.
Get Appy
Downloading a few apps can make fi nding your feet a little bit easier. Citymapper is a travel favourite, while KickMap and Exit Strategy NYC will help you navigate the subway system ( the latter even tells you where to board so that you disembark right in front of the exit!). CabSense pinpoints the best locations for hailing a taxi, and if you want a self- guided tour of the city, Urban Wonderer has you sorted.