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Whether you’ve dreamed of living here your entire life, or a new job has moved you to the city, New York is an overwhelming place when you first get here. If you’re new to the area, and you don’t want to look like a tourist, follow these tips and you’ll blend in easily.
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Walk Like A New YorkerWalk Like A New Yorker
New Yorkers have a certain type of walk, and anyone was not doing it is immediately pegged as a tourist. First, they never lookup. Yes, the skyscrapers are beautiful, and it’s amazing how much they tower over everything else, but New Yorkers never stop moving forward. The city is famous for continually being on the go, and the people are no exception. Because almost everyone in the city relies on public transportation, they’re always in a rush trying to catch the next bus or hail the next cab.
Accept the Cost of the CityAccept the Cost of the City
Just about everything in New York is expensive, and the cost of living is very high. New Yorkers won’t rent a car in the city because there’s a 19.875 percent sales tax imposed on all car rentals. Food costs a lot more in the city than outside of it, and there are bakeries in the city that charge four dollars for one cookie. For seasoned New Yorkers, these are just the facts of life. To fit in, accept it and never mention how shockingly expensive everything is.
Follow Subway EtiquetteFollow Subway Etiquette
There are some unspoken rules to follow when you’re riding the subway. First, if you see someone who is having a hard time standing because of age or injury, offer him or her your seat. Pregnant women should also be on the receiving end of an extended place.
Next, as you’re getting on the subway train, make sure you quickly step in and allow room for other passengers to get on. Don’t feel like you have to hang by the doors until you need to get off. Finally, as you’re leaving the train, make sure you’re not blocking a stairway if you need to stop and figure out which direction you’re going. The last thing you want to do is stop up foot traffic.
Avoid Tourist DestinationsAvoid Tourist Destinations
There are specific destinations around the city, such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Times Square, known for attracting tourists. If you want people to think you’re a tourist, all you have to do is go marvel at one of these hot spots. Instead, wait until you have friends or family come to visit you, and then use them as an excuse to visit all the places you want to go.
One of a KindOne of a Kind
New York City is a beautiful city, and there’s no other place like it in the world. By following the etiquette on the subway and the street, you’ll be able to pass yourself off as a local as soon as you get here with no questions asked.