New York

New York Travel Guide

Short History of New York

New York, often known as the "Big Apple", is a city with a rich and varied history. It was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before being discovered by European explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano in 1524.

The Dutch colonized the area in 1624, naming it New Amsterdam. After the British took control in 1664, they renamed it New York. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it became a primary entry point for immigrants, transforming into a cultural melting pot.

It's the birthplace of many cultural movements and is known for its towering skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty.

FAQ for New York

What is the best way to get there?

New York is accessible through three main airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport. The city is also reachable by train, bus, or car.

What is New York famous for?

New York is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, and Broadway. It's renowned for its arts scene, culinary diversity, and bustling urban lifestyle.

What are five interesting facts about New York?

• It's home to over 8.3 million people, making it the most populous city in the U.S.
• The New York Public Library is one of the largest public libraries in the world.
• New York's subway system is one of the oldest and most extensive in the world.
• The city hosts over 50 million tourists annually.
• The United Nations Headquarters is in New York.

How did New York get its name?

New York was named after the Duke of York and Albany, who later became King James II of England, when the British took control of the region from the Dutch in 1664.

What are some travel tips for New York?

Plan your itinerary well, be ready for a fast-paced environment, use public transportation, and explore beyond Manhattan's popular tourist areas.

Do I need a visa?

Visitors from most countries will require a visa or ESTA authorization to enter the U.S. Please consult the U.S. State Department website for the most current information.

When is the best time to visit New York?

Spring and fall are the best times to visit New York when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. However, visiting in December can be magical with Christmas decorations and holiday events.

Are there local customs I should know for New York?

Drinking

The legal drinking age in New York is 21.

Greetings

A handshake or a nod is a common greeting. It's customary to say "please" and "thank you".

Public Transit

When using public transportation, avoid blocking the doors, give up your seat for the elderly or disabled, and keep conversations at a moderate volume.

What is the time zone for New York?

New York operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) in summer.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage is 120 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A and B.

What is the currency?

The official currency is the U.S. dollar ($).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are widely available throughout the city.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in New York.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted in New York.

How much do I tip in New York?

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers. The standard tipping rate is 15-20% of the total bill.

Restaurants/Bars

In restaurants and bars, the typical tip is 15-20% of the total bill before tax.

Hotels

For hotel staff like bellhops, a tip of $1-2 per bag is standard. You should leave $2-5 per day for housekeeping.

Taxis

For taxis, it's customary to tip 15-20% of the fare.

Tour guides

A tip of $5-10 per person for tour guides is common.

City Information

Founded	Population (2023)	Elevation
1624	8.3 million (source)	33 feet

Weather

Season	High Temperature (°C/°F)	Low Temperature (°C/°F)
Winter (Dec-Feb)	4°C / 39°F	-3°C / 27°F
Spring (Mar-May)	17°C / 63°F	8°C / 46°F
Summer (Jun-Aug)	28°C / 82°F	19°C / 66°F
Fall (Sep-Nov)	18°C / 64°F	11°C / 52°F