Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with newyorkcity and travel

NYC on a Weekday

LolaGeek — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:35:33 -0800

NYC Filter: What's fun to do in New York City on a weekday? Three friends and I (two men, two women, all late-20s) will be in New York City as tourists on a weekday. This will be in the near future, so the weather will probably be chilly.

We are spending the previous night in a hotel just outside the city (a 30 minute bus ride away), so the first problem is getting into town during the morning rush hour. Should we take our time checking out of the hotel and leave in the late morning when traffic will presumably be lighter?

Once we get there, what's cool to do? We've all been to NYC before, but probably not on a weekday - is there something we should take advantage of doing while most people are at work? Free or inexpensive would be great, though we wouldn't be opposed to a museum or something with a reasonable admission price. But I'm sure there's tons of cool places to just go visit.

We'll be leaving the city probably just ahead of the evening rush hour, so suggestions for lunch are also welcome.

Have to fly in July, but we'll adapt to anything else!

amicamentis — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:53:46 -0800

How to find the best NYC --> Europe flight deals when both day of week and destination are flexible. Caveat: flying out July 2010. My roommate and I are planning an extended European vacation beginning around the middle of July next year. I know that this is the absolute worst time to fly out, so we need some tips about how to cut down the price.

We are flying from NYC but would be willing to travel to Newark or even Philadelphia if there were significant savings. I have used RyanAir in the past and am familiar with inter-European travel, which is why we don't care much about the city that we first land in. So far, it looks like flying into Dublin is the least expensive. We would also be fine with Paris, London, Glasgow, Amsterdam, or Geneva.

What now? I've heard that if you're flying during peak season then you should just buy tickets as early as possible because they will never lower. However, with our flexibility it seems that there may be some deal, somewhere a bit closer to our flight date. Is this wishful thinking?

We would appreciate any website recommendations that would give fares on neighboring cities as well, or flexibility about the day of the week. I've tried Kayak and liked it - are there others?

In addition, our vacation will probably continue for several months. Will the customs agents give us any problems for having a return ticket for more than three months from the day we enter the country?

Thanks!

New York for the Young

ashaw — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 09:06:24 -0800

Help planning a 5 Day trip to NYC - Do you know of any secret delights that New York City has to offer? I need recommendations/advice on everything from where to stay to where to go. Much more details inside. Just to spark some ideas, I'm a twenty year old single british male traveller who has clichéd hipster young adult interests like: music (open mic, gigs, records), antique fairs, flea markets, good cheap vintage/secondhand clothes, coffee shops, cheap carnivorous food, literature, art, film as well as all the usual tourist traps (brooklyn bridge, statue of liberty, modern art museum etc).

I'm very much boggled by my research, NYC is huge and I don't know where to stay which is relatively cheap ($80 a night would be pushing it) and in a good location to get to all the areas. I know the US hasn't got the travellers mentality to hostels, so any recommendations would be excellent.

Would be great if someone could tell me if there is a sightseeing tour which can hit most of the tourist spots leaving more time to do the more unique, quirky stuff. I've been told the Lower East Side and Williamsburg are all good places to spend some time.

Remember the cheaper the better and bearing in mind I'm not of drinking age, so alternatives for night life would be really great.

JetBlueTracker JetBlueTracker JetBlueTracker

2bucksplus — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 08:48:08 -0800

I live in New York and my parents live in Sarasota, FL. There are two direct flights per day on JetBlue between JFK and SRQ. Is it possible to set up something up that would alert me whenever prices on these flights dropped below a certain amount? I'd like to see my family a few times a year and am in no way tied to certain dates of travel. Some travel sites offer flexible travel for major cities but not for a city this size.

I specifically asked about JetBlue because they are currently the only airline offering direct flights on this route. I am also a member of JetBlue's TrueBlue reward program.

Where to buy travel adapters in NYC

cookie googleman — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 07:56:18 -0800

Where to find a three-pronged British style electrical adapter plug in New York City? Hello,

I'm leaving for Tanzania tomorrow and am looking for a travel store that sells adapters in New York City. It's too late to order online. Thank you in advance!

Help me get the cheapest flights to New York from Australia

crossoverman — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 20:37:20 -0800

TravelFilter: Will the current cheap flights between Australia and New York remain into 2010? And what times of the year are considered off-peak travel to NYC? Flights to New York from Australia have become really cheap this year (AUD1000-1500) as opposed to normal (AUD2500). This is due to the market opening up: instead of only United and Qantas servicing direct routes, Virgin Australian and Delta are flying direct to the US as well.

I am tentatively planning a trip to NYC in May 2010. (Gives me a full 12 months to save.) It looks like prices will shoot back up to the AUD2500 next year (according to airline websites right now), though most airlines are only listing prices through March 2010 anyway.

Are these prices likely to stay as low as they are currently? With the economic crisis, I suspect this might help to keep prices down AND if I wait six months I'm likely not to be stung by premium rates being offered to people willing to book 12 months in advance. But I'm not really sure how long-haul overseas flight prices fluctuate, if at all.

And is May a good time of the year to visit NYC? I'm flexible to travel between April-June 2010 - don't want to go in the depths of winter or the heat of summer. Is May considered off-peak? (I'll be traveling to other parts of the US, but NYC is my main port of call - everything else can fall in line behind that.)

I don't need suggestions of what to see and do in the city - that list is already LONG - just advice on when is the best time to stay and when the best time is to book the holiday. Thanks.

Mobility impaired travel in NYC

Anonymous — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 14:40:09 -0800

I need advice on visiting Manhattan with a mobility-limited traveling companion. I'm going to be visiting New York City in late February. My traveling companion is recovering from a leg injury. She walks with a cane, has difficulty with stairs, and isn't in shape for the kinds of long walks I usually take when I'm in the city.

We're going to be flying into JFK on a Thursday morning and leaving on Saturday evening. We'll most likely be stayin in the Hotel Pennsylvania. We're going to see a couple of shows, dine out with friends, and visit the Met, the Museum of Natural History and St. John the Divine's. I plan on traveling mostly by cab, and our planned destinations all have ample locations to sit and rest. I could use Hivemind help on two points:

a) Is it possible to travel from JFK to Penn Station via the Long Island Railroad or the Subway and get to street level using only elevators and escalators?

b) Are there any non-obvious comfort-related considerations, potential snags or preparations that I should keep in mind?

Cheap travel from Delaware to NYC?

viewofdelft — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:23:54 -0800

What are the cheapest ways to get from Newark, Delaware, to New York City? I'm a research assistant at the University of Delaware and as part of a long and wonkish I-95 corridor project, we've decided to produce a map or informational pamphlet letting students know the cheapest ways to get from here (Newark, Delaware) to New York City.

A few things to keep in mind:
1. Any mode of transportation is fair game (air, rail, highway, seaports, etc.), as is any type of vehicle (plane, train, automobile, bus, shoes, etc.).
2. Be creative, but within reasonable limits of safety (i.e., no airmailing oneself).
3. It's alright if many of the suggested travel methods begin in Philadelphia (and maybe even Baltimore) if these departure points are more familiar to you.
4. Cost is the most important factor, although I don't want to discourage that outlandish teleportation idea you've been waiting to uncork.

After we've completed the map or pamphlet, I'll contact each of the contributors about mailing them a finished product. Thank you.

Family is meeting in New York City... advise me!

smalls — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 20:10:24 -0800

Help me find a gathering spot in Manhattan for a small first-time family meet up that will occur after our private wedding ceremony. I'm specifically looking for some nice dinner spots, as well as some possible activity suggestions within walking distance of Grand Central and Penn Station. Our family is located throughout the tri-state area, so everyone will be traveling to either Grand Central or Penn Station for an evening out. Some of us have met each other, but a few have not. I would like everyone to meet up for some sort of activity and then head out to a nice dinner. There will be around 10-14 of us in total, so locations within walking distance are crucial.

The ideal place for dinner would be something that requires at least business casual dress, somewhat intimate, and preferably under $50 per person (not including drinks). I have looked at the nicer restaurants in Grand Central itself, but I am not certain of their quality, so any help you can give me here is appreciated.

For activities, I am looking for something that would potentially be a little distracting in case awkwardness occurs (this is a very good possibility given my mixed family). We have all been to NYC many times, so uber-touristy is to be avoided, although I am not opposed to kitschy or semi-cheesy group activity suggestions. The group varies in age from 26-66, so it should be something on the mellower side. If it helps to know this, the future hubby and I are sporty, outdoorsy, and crafty. And we love good food and good beer.

transportation from bronx to manhattan west side

iscatter — Wed, 21 May 2008 05:48:28 -0800

How can I get 6-8 adults, 2 car-seat-aged kids, and all of the associated luggage from the Bronx to our cruise ship departure site on the west side of Manhattan on a Sunday morning? We'll be gone for six days if that helps you envision the luggage situation (probably between seven and nine suitcases, three to four garment bags, and a few smaller carry-on type bags). We're not against driving multiple cars downtown but I don't particularly relish spending hundreds of dollars for parking. I don't think we'll need the car seats on the cruise, so I'd like to leave them at home if we're not taking our own cars downtown.

Oh yeah, and we'll need to get back to the Bronx at the end of the trip, too!

Not having to fly to our cruise departure seemed like such a good idea until now!

New Orleans fell through, so let's try something else that's new!

sperose — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:25:42 -0800

As luck would have it, my previous question has fizzled out. Same people travelling, but this time, we're heading to New York City from Waverly, NY, and only staying for the weekend (5/22 or 23-5/25). The biggest question is: how do we get into the city? We do have access to a car, but I'd be the driver and I really dislike driving in big ass cities (such as NYC). How could we get from Waverly to inside the city?

Where can we stay that would be good for general partying-ness and some sight-seeing, but also relatively cheap (the main reason why this trip was cut down to a weekend instead of a week)?

Is there some sort of easy carryaround map I can use? (I like maps that have subway lines/stations and bus service on them.)

What is 'not to be missed'? I've been to NYC once (pre-9/11), and seen the big attractions, but have no desire to see Ground Zero (neither does my friend, for that matter.)

How much is this going to hurt in the wallet? I know that cigarettes are expensive (my friend smokes), but for alcohol, what would be standard prices for stuff like beers and mixed drinks?

Lastly, any words of advice? This is my first vacation that I'm planning by myself and I'm trying to not screw it up. (Of course, leaving one week to plan things isn't helping matters, but was out of my hands.)

Drinks near Empire State Bldg?

fillsthepews — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:03:33 -0800

Nice place to have drinks with a client around Empire State Bldg? I'm out on the West Coast, and my boss has asked me to set up a meeting for drinks before a party @ the Empire State Bldg this weekend. Can you suggest anything in the blocks near the building? My google/yelp searching isn't really getting me in the correct area.

If there's no decent proper bars, a restaurant/bar would also be totally ok.

Thanks! Forgive my NYC ignorance!

What should I do this Friday night in NYC?

dyslexictraveler — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 14:52:39 -0800

NYC filter: I'm visiting a friend in the city this weekend and due to her work schedule, I'm going to end up being by myself on Friday night. I don't make it down to New York that often, so I'd really like to do something fun, but I've already contacted my other friends who live in the area and I've come up empty. So I'm querying the hive mind: What should I do? A few additional details:
- I'm a mid-twenties guy, if that matters.
- My friend lives in Brooklyn (Crown Heights), but I can go anywhere that's reasonably subway accessible.
- I'm open to anything that's fun, interesting, and that I won't feel too weird going to/doing alone. I was thinking along the lines of a show, an interesting speaker, a museum that’s open late, or perhaps a one-off volunteer opportunity, but don’t let that restrict you in your suggestions.
- The time block I'm looking to fill is between 5 pm and midnight, with perhaps a break for dinner at some point.

Thanks in advance!

Why hello, Castro.

otolith — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 08:13:07 -0800

A friend of mine has a sibling who is studying in Cuba. How can said friend get to Havana from NYC for a visit? Or should one not post such intentions on a public site? Anyhow, suggestions appreciated either way.

More info: my friend is a US citizen living in New York City. Sometime in November, they would like to spend about a week in Cuba. What are the best routes to make the trip? Fly to Canada first? Or the Caribbean? Are there any ways to book such a trip from the US, or do you simply have to do it in stages, getting a flight to Havana once you've arrived in a more Cuba-friendly nation?

Cost is somewhat of an issue, so any information about relative expenses for different ways to go would be much appreciated.

We've read some recommendations about how to handle the return into the States, but any additional tips would be also appreciated.

If I'm asking a question too sensitive to be answered publicly, you can e-mail me at maybecuba at yahoo dot cawm.

Many thanks in advance. My friend would really love to be able to visit their sib in such an unusual (for USians) country.

Long Island Islip Macarthur Airport to Brooklyn, NY?

brokekid — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 07:51:51 -0800

What is the best way to get from Long Island Islip Macarthur Airport to Brooklyn, NY?

Cheap or Free Things To Do In New York Next Week?

Becko — Fri, 18 May 2007 18:20:28 -0800

I have a week in New York City and limited funds... I'll be heading to New York City on Sunday and I'll be there until Saturday. I'd like some ideas for cool things to keep me occupied without costing me a ton. I'm staying at the Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge. I plan on taking subways and walking, what is the best way to quickly get accustomed to the subway system? I've been to New York City once before, but it was about 3 or 4 years ago.

Friday I plan to hit some museums because they have free/pay what you can nights. I'd love to get tickets to see a taping of a show, but it seems like this is a bad time for that, are there even shows taping at this time? If so, how can I go about getting a hold of a couple tickets? I'd love to go to a neat tea store or cafe. I love tea, especially really unique atmospheres of tea stores. I'm sure there are a ton in New York, but what are some of the best?

I just graduated from art school and I think it would be cool to show my illustration portfolio to some art directors if possible. Does anyone know the best way to get in touch with art directors? Or is there a cool art scene I can hit up?

Also, this is probably a shot in the dark, but last time I was in New York we stumbled across a Udon place near the location of the former World Trade Center. My fiance's mom has tried to locate the place again on other trips but has been unsuccessful. Anyone know what this restaurant is called? It was almost exclusively udon, but it had other Japanese items as well.

I know there are a lot of New York tourist questions, but I didn't find any specifically addressing my questions about free/cheap things. Especially events that are taking place this coming week.

Affordable lodging in New York City?

4midori — Tue, 15 Aug 2006 16:02:27 -0800

I'm traveling to New York City in September. Is is possible to find a hotel that is clean, quiet, and safe without spending a fortune? I don't need much space or amenities, but I do need a place where I won't be awakened by street noise or rude guests. I will be visiting people in Upper Manhattan and Brooklyn, so anything that's reasonably close to these spots is fine.

I'm not opposed to staying in New Jersey, or other spots that are not NYC, as long as there is convenient train access in to the early a.m. that doesn't take forever. I will not have a car.

By "not spending a fortune," I mean a hotel under $200/night, preferrably closer to $100/night.

Parking in and around New York City

striatic — Thu, 17 Feb 2005 11:36:53 -0800

Hi, i'm looking for a place to keep a rental car in or around New York City. My friends {travelling from toronto} and i will be staying at a hostel on 891 Amsterdam Ave and will be staying arriving Friday, overnight Friday and Saturday, leaving early sunday. Leaving the car outside of the city is fine so long as it remains secure.

Is it better to pay to keep the car in the city? the hostel people say that we should be able to pay 15 to 25 dollars per day at a nearby garage depending on the size of our car.

Is it better to park outside of the city and "commute" in by transit? if so, any suggestions as to where to keep the car?

any and all help would be appreciated, and thank you in advance.

Travelling to NYC

ruwan — Mon, 07 Feb 2005 11:35:52 -0800

NYC Travel Filter (Thanks in advance from a confused Californian and NYC newbie) [+] On Sunday morning I'm flying into JFK. I need to get from there to Valhalla, NY (near White Plains). I know I need to take the "Harlem Line" train from somwhere in Manhattan. So what's the best way to get from JFK to Manhattan? I think I need to go to Grand Central Station (is that the same as Penn Station?), and is that where I can catch the Harlem Line train? And how long does the trip from JFK to Grand Central usually take? Will the fact that I'm travelling on a Sunday make any difference? Am I correct in assuming that my return journey should be just reversing all the routes/trains?

NYC Visit

jpburns — Mon, 10 Jan 2005 09:26:44 -0800

Considering the huge number of members in the NYC area, can anyone suggest touristy things to do on a weekend (Feb 12-14) in Manhattan? [<--] It's the three of us, me (tv graphic designer), my (magazine editing) wife, and my 12-year-old daughter. We're staying at the Millennium Broadway hotel, so Time Square and Central park is covered.

We wanted to take a ship into the harbor to see the SoL and stuff, any suggestions? Should we go to MOMA? Any tv show taping we should see (and how to get tickets)?

Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

NYC Travelfilter part sventeen thousand

Juicylicious — Tue, 16 Nov 2004 10:59:36 -0800

I'm off to NYC on Thursday and need advice on where to find the following.......... - Slam Poetry. I'm planning on the Nuyorican, but are there other venues? Is Def Peotry still in NYC?

- Latin music bars that give lessons early in the evening.

- Best women's clothing re-sell shops.

- Best trendy, yet low priced women's clothing.

- Are there any shows (on/off broadway) that are must-sees?

- Best place to find knock off handbags? I know Canal St, but is there are particular vendor? A secret word to see the good stuff? How about fur bags?

- Flying show. I was in NYC three years ago and went to a show with my sister. It was people on wires, hanging from the ceiling and flying around a room. I can't remember the name of it, but it was unbelievable. There is audience participation and it's performed in a large space. Anyone recognize this?

- A nightclub in an old church?

- Dancehall dance club?

- Any bars where I can get away with smoking?

NYC Weekend Fun

dobbs — Wed, 06 Oct 2004 10:45:44 -0800

A friend's off to NYC this weekend (Fri-Tues). I said I'd ask if anyone knows of anything that's going on that's specific for this weekend. She lived in the city before so knows the regular stuff but if there's anything someone in NY should definitely check out this weekend, please let me know. She's staying in Harlem but is eager to trek.

Give me some ideas for my NYC trip!

mhaw — Tue, 21 Sep 2004 13:35:06 -0800

I'm planning a trip to NYC with my girlfriend in November, I need ideas of a place to stay and things to do; we've both seen many of the touristy things, but wouldn't be opposed to seeing them again. I want to do the trip on a tight budget ($500-600 for the weekend, less if possible) since we are both students. Also, I would like to make the trip as romantic as possible. Any ideas?

Day or weekend trips outsode NYC

Vidiot — Wed, 14 Apr 2004 22:02:52 -0800

Recommendations for day- or weekend trips outside NYC? Within 150 miles of the city is preferable. So is relatively inexpensive, charming, interesting, scenic, et cetera. Where do you go? Why do you like it there? Any more specific tips re: places to stay/eat/check out? Thanks in advance.

Cheap travel from NYC to Vermont

scarabic — Fri, 19 Mar 2004 20:19:23 -0800

What's a good and cheap way to get from New York City to Middlebury, Vermont without a car or jet pack? My gf is attending a summer session there and finding transportation tangled and expensive.