How to get around NYC on the New York Subway
Wednesday, January 21st, 2009There is no better way to get around New York than use the subway just like any other New Yorker. This will save you a lot of money and of course is cheaper than taxis and many cases a lot quicker. Sure 20 million New Yorker’s can’t be wrong? You will be surprised the number of times you will use the subway.
Navigating the system is not rocket science and contrary to those 80’s movies (Crocodile Dundee) it is very safe. The key thing to remember is that uptown trains travel north and downtown trains travel south. Once you have mastered this, than you will reap the benefits of being able to get from one neighbourhood in Manhattan to the other in a matter of minutes. Go to your local subway station and ask for a FREE New York Subway Map at the subway station booth. You will need this to help plan which lines to connect to and which is the best stop to hop off. Don’t worry if you lose your map as you can just pick up another for free.
The next thing you need to do is to buy a prepaid MetroCard from the automated touchscreen ticket booths in the station. There are a number of options here, but since most Irish people tend to be in New York for at least 4 days or longer, best go for the 7 day unlimited pass at $12.50 USD rather than buying 4 x 1 day fun passes at $7.50 USD each. The 7-Day Unlimited Ride MetroCard is good for unlimited New York subway and local bus rides until midnight, 7 days from day of first use.
One more thing to note is whether your local subway station near your hotel and destination stop is an express stop or a local stop. Reason being is that you can choose to jump on an express train which by-passes all the local stops and gets you to your destination even quicker. Just make sure that your destination stop is also an express stop.
If you ever unsure or have any questions on which is best stop be sure to ask a fellow passenger on the platform. New Yorkers are extremely friendly and helpful! To help plan your trip to New York trip can customise and print your very own New York Guide (shopping, attractions, restaurants and nightlife).
