New York

English is the most common language for visits. Save your accommodation’s full address: in New York, the number, street name and borough help avoid wrong turns.

Prices are in US dollars (USD). Check whether service or gratuity is already included before adding a tip. Review the final amount, particularly in busy tourist areas.

UGO tip: Eat in the area you are visiting that day to save journeys and time.

Displayed prices may exclude taxes and some fees. Always compare the total payable for hotels, tickets and reservations. The final amount depends on what you purchase.

Conditions vary by street, time and situation. Use these pointers to plan your journeys.

Walk within neighbourhoods and use the subway for longer distances. Check Uptown/Downtown direction, express stops and weekend works. OMNY supports contactless payment; check the MTA for current fares.

UGO tip: Use the same card or device for every OMNY journey. A physical card, its phone version and a watch do not share the same fare-cap counter.

JFK, Newark and LaGuardia have different connections. Check the route from your terminal on the airport and transit operator websites. For a taxi, use the official rank and ignore unsolicited offers in the terminal.

UGO tip: Check the airport code on your return ticket: it may differ from your arrival airport. Allow for connections and traffic.

Summer heat can make long walks tiring: alternate outdoor time, shaded breaks and air-conditioned places. In winter, bring layers, gloves and suitable shoes. Wind can make bridges and waterfronts less comfortable.

UGO tip: Schedule long walks early and keep a museum as a backup. Check local alerts when extreme heat or a storm is forecast.

Alcohol sales are restricted to people aged 21 and over. Bring valid official identification; a passport is an accepted proof of age under New York State guidance.

UGO tip: Check entry requirements before booking a bar and plan your journey home before going out.

Call 911 for immediate danger or a medical emergency. On the subway, use a Help Point intercom or ask a staff member. Give the station, line and direction of travel if you know them.

UGO tip: Keep an offline map, your accommodation address and a way to charge your phone.

Our suggestion: four to six days for a first stay. Book priority visits and shows through official operators. With two days, choose two groups of neighbourhoods instead of repeatedly crossing the city.

UGO tip: Before buying a pass, compare its cost with the visits you will actually make. The municipal Staten Island Ferry is free and does not stop at the Statue of Liberty.