The Big Apple. Gotham. The city that never sleeps.
No endearing nickname will hide the fact that New York City, like other major cities around the world, is lined with tourist traps. With all the glitz and glam of the metropolis, even the most seasoned travelers may fall victim to the sidewalk salesman advertising his I
1. Say no to horse carriages and pedicabs
Your romanticized dream of riding through the city in a horse-drawn carriage will shatter to pieces once you add up the total cost of the sitting fee, the tip and the actual rate for the distance traveled. R.I.P. life savings. Spare yourself the hardship and take a ride through the less-glamorous, but wallet-friendly subway system.
2. Avoid Times Square like the plague
While all tourists should visit Times Square for novelty’s sake, nearly every dining and shopping establishment in the general vicinity is overpriced. Also make sure you prepare yourself ahead of time, as you may or may not be mildly harassed by a gang of life-sized Elmos beckoning you to pose for picture.
3. Beware of Dolce&Banana, CUCCI and Louis Vutton
If the deal sounds too good to be true, that’s probably because it is. All across major tourists spots in New York City, you’ll find vendors selling knock off merchandise like purses and handbags. Make sure to thoroughly examine the goods before you end up rocking “CUCCI” through the city.
4. Opt for an easier methods of transportation
Why travel on a double decker tour bus when you can walk or take the subway to most of NYC’s major attractions? You’ll save a ton of money and also get in some exercise.
5. Don’t spend your money on the Empire State Building
Yes, the view from the Empire State Building is great, but it’s not worth the money you’ll pay for in tickets. Plus, you’ll have to wait in long lines and play frogger with all the other tourists trying to snap the same picture.
