Things to do in NYC

esnagel

If you take the trains from JFK to Manhattan, it's < $10. If you take a cab, it's $50 (well, that's what it was last time I flew into NY).

Looking up & trying to find the Empire State Building will do you no good - all of the buildings are tall, even the small ones. What you do is stand on a corner and find on the map where you are. Then walk a block, find yourself on the map again, and figure out which direction you're facing. Either keep going, or turn around. Probably not the most efficient way to travel, but it works.

If you take cabs, learn how to use them.
Also, don't try to get a cab in the financial district at 5:00 - it's impossible.

Walk as much as you can, even in the winter. It won't be too cold in March.
Take a carriage ride through Central Park. It's expensive, but the driver knows more about that area than anyone else, and it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of those NY things.
Visit FAO Schwartz, and Tiffany's, but don't plan on buying anything. They're just fun to go to. If you're going to buy toys for any kids, go to Toys R Us in Times Square.
Watch for crowds - if you see 2 dozen people running with cameras, there's someone famous over there - hence my photo of Angelina Jolie's rear:

And know when & where the TV shows are filming. Last time I was in NY, I watched a segment of the Tony Danza show be filmed.


Oh, and HAVE FUN!

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Nagel family website

thefivepoints

Dollar wise take the shuttle from JFK to the hub at Jamaica and then the E train to 42 st which is a short walk to your hotel. Here is the link
http://www.lirr.org/mta/schedules.htm

You can also take the LIRR from Jamaica to Penn Station and the 2 or 3 one stop to 42 st and you will be right in the heart of Times Square
I think the LIRR is the best choice, you will not have to leave the Jamaica Hub it is all in doors. But please do not wander outside the hub for any reason it is not the safest area in Queens.
A cab is on the expensive side not sure what you think about 50 - 60 dollars tip included in that price, but if its you and a friend can split the cost its not too bad.


As far getting lost Manhattan is the easiest place on earth it is not confusing like a city of Washington DC.
The city is 90 percent laid out like a grid, lower Manhattan is a little tricky but there are cops all over the city.
Manhattan is super safe the subway is super safe it can be a little scary at first but millions of people ride the trains every day.
Buy a good city book at any store or go to your public library for a tourist book the should have something about NYC

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When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.

Mark1

As someone who has visited on several occassions now, may I suggest the best value breakfast with a good feel of authenticity is Burger Haven! When I can recall the name of my favourite deli in upper east side I will let you know but it is an organic one!

phoebe1966

Thank you so much for the information. Its so hard to take in. I will look into taking the trains maybe, but I must admit being in a cab for the first time in New York an driving into Manhatten with all the hustle and bustle is really exciting. Being in Queens worries me a bit, obviously Ive heard all the bad things about this area and you never get to hear the good do you. Also hailing cabs will be a bit worrying too. In Britain we dont hail cabs, we got to an allocated spot. Taxi drivers in Britain are probably amongst the rudest people and if you hail a taxi, they would deliberately drive past you.

thefivepoints

When leaving JFK airport you will not have to hail a cab they have taxi stands.
You sound a bit concerned about the trip I would then just take the taxi at one of the approved stands and not a gypsy taxi because they tend to roam the airport, they can be cheaper but some of these guys dont have valid license's.
The city is very safe of course don't roam the city at 2 am but it is very safe. Just like any city there are bad people but find the popular tourist spots through the books and hotels and you will be fine.

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When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.

esnagel

Ignore the crazies... not just a NYC thing, but any major city. Even Buffalo. Ignore the crazies & you'll be fine.

thefivepoints

I recommend this place for a burger
http://www.jacksonholeburgers.com/default.php
The one on 3 rd ave is pretty good

THERESA

Eric, Did you watch Tony Danza on purpose or did you run into them filming that by accident?

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~THERESA~Can I get a hero shake with that, or are you all out?

THERESA

I worked with a girl a few years ago that was one of the Rockettes.

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~THERESA~Can I get a hero shake with that, or are you all out?

esnagel

I just happened to be there.