With a vibrant culture, a rich history, exceptional art and food, and exciting nightlife, New York City is likely to be a bucket-list destination for many Northern Irish tourists. Whether you visit in the summer, spring, autumn, or winter, there is so much to see and do in America's largest city.
There are many excellent guides on things to do and foods to try in the Big Apple. However, this article focuses on some tips for Northern Irish tourists visiting NYC for the first time.
1. Wear Comfortable Shoes
While NYC has an excellent public transportation system, the best and most authentic way to explore the concrete jungle is on foot. However, the city is massive, so you will need comfortable shoes and lots of water when visiting in the warmer months.
Take a free walking tour of New York with GuruWalk so you can explore Fifth Avenue (also known as Millionaire's Row), Times Square, Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more alongside an expert guide.
2. Purchase a Metrocard
NYC's subway and bus network is famous for its 24/7 coverage and reliability (well, sometimes). Purchase a Metrocard and you'll get full access to all public transport for much cheaper than jumping in one of the Big Apple's famous yellow cabs (taxis).
However, if you are going to ride the subway, it's essential to understand basic subway etiquette:
- Take your backpack off and put it on the floor or keep it on your front so you're not bumping other people with it or taking up too much space.
- Keep out of the way of the doors to let other people on and off.
- You might see some locals blasting music or eating on the subway, but please refrain from doing so. As a tourist, it is less likely to be accepted lightly.
- The New York Metro Transit Authority quote - "Courtesy is contagious, and it begins with you." - is a reminder to offer up your seat to anyone who needs it, such as those who are elderly, pregnant, or disabled.
3. Follow The Rating System When You Pick a Restaurant
Whilst on any city break, it's important to dine at restaurants you can trust. In NYC, every restaurant has an ABC Rating, with "A" being the best and "C" being the worst.
We recommend sticking to A-rated restaurants, as these establishments received 13 or fewer health code violations during their most recent inspection.
Luckily, it's easy to spot which restaurants have an A rating as they are required to post a placard advertising the grade in their front window.
4. New York City is so much more than Manhattan
Manhattan is a great borough to explore, home to must-see sites such as the beautiful Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. However, you're missing out if you don't explore beyond it.
Here are some other boroughs to explore in NYC:
- Queens. This is the largest and most diverse borough, boasting some of the best local and international food in the city. The Queen's Night Market is a must-visit in the summer.
- The Bronx. Whilst known for its gritty past, it is also home to the New York Botanical Garden and the city's real Little Italy.
- Brooklyn. This borough is renowned for its cool atmosphere with amazing waterfront parks, stunning views of Manhattan, the Brooklyn Museum, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
- Staten Island. Often called "the forgotten borough", Staten Island is home to the Chinese Scholar's Garden, a zoo, and a waterfront 9/11 memorial. You can hop on board the Staten Island Ferry for free and get great views of the Statue of Liberty.
5. Eat Pizza With Your Hands
The former NYC Mayor, Bill De Blasio, was ridiculed in 2014 for eating a slice of pizza with a knife and fork. Whilst this might be authentic to his Italian roots, it's not the way New Yorkers do it.
Use your hands to enjoy a sloppy slice of pizza (known as a pie by New Yorkers) and even consider embarking on a pizza tour around Brooklyn.
(Image Source: BBC)
Ready To Travel From Belfast To NYC?
With reasonably priced daily flights from Belfast's two airports to NYC's John F Kennedy Airport (via London), the Big Apple is a must-visit for Northern Irish tourists.
We recommend staying in Midtown Manhattan, as it's the most central area, and you will be walking distance from Central Park and Times Square. From JFK Airport, you can hop on a tram and train to get to your accommodation in Midtown in under 30 minutes.
