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.
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.
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.
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.
Plan your itinerary well, be ready for a fast-paced environment, use public transportation, and explore beyond Manhattan's popular tourist areas.
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.
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.
The legal drinking age in New York is 21.
A handshake or a nod is a common greeting. It's customary to say "please" and "thank you".
When using public transportation, avoid blocking the doors, give up your seat for the elderly or disabled, and keep conversations at a moderate volume.
New York operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) in summer.
The standard voltage is 120 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A and B.
The official currency is the U.S. dollar ($).
ATMs are widely available throughout the city.
Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in New York.
Yes, Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted in New York.
It is customary to tip service workers. The standard tipping rate is 15-20% of the total bill.
In restaurants and bars, the typical tip is 15-20% of the total bill before tax.
For hotel staff like bellhops, a tip of $1-2 per bag is standard. You should leave $2-5 per day for housekeeping.
For taxis, it's customary to tip 15-20% of the fare.
A tip of $5-10 per person for tour guides is common.
Founded | Population (2023) | Elevation |
---|---|---|
1624 | 8.3 million (source) | 33 feet |
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 |