Don't Get SCAMMED when Arriving in NYC (Airport Mistakes to Avoid!)

[@HereBeBarr]

⭐ JOIN REVOLUT And GET $10: www.revolut.com/en-US/promo/aff-10offerUS-barr/

[@VickyBantaChrist]

Please make my dream come true however there's in US 😍🇺🇸🙌🌏😇

[@lawnside82]

I feel like here be bar needs to sell a class or how to book thats a must read before comming to nyc and other areas. With money saved, it pays for its self.

[@Dinga271]

Can Revolut be used at the OmnyPay readers at subway stations?

[@ActionKid]

Wow! The Port Authority waiving the $8.25 AirTrain fare on a regular basis and then reinstating it 5 minutes later seems like the biggest scam to me. Just shows you how inefficient they are and it isn't fair to their paying customers.

[@HereBeBarr]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 AK Extra time

[@SKS8080]

It’s run by the government. Say no more.

[@TheFurreid]

how is that a scam?

[@RowletGod69]

@@TheFurreidit’s a joke

[@jqsmooth77]

F*ck the Port Authority! Stopped paying $8.25. It takes me a bit longer but I get from JFK to GWB for $2.90!

[@anlasbry]

I absolutely hate it when tourists get scammed, like the scam artists who stand in or near Battery Park and sell fake Statue of Liberty tickets to unsuspecting tourists.

[@ishaansingh6973]

My first day in NYC started with a scam. I mean it was just $50-60 and nothing too bad but yeah now as a resident it doesn't feel good seeing all this.

[@lawnside82]

I hate seeing people get scammed. Kinda ruins the whole trip/experience…

[@dannydaw59]

To get the real tickets you have to reserve months ahead of time on the correct website.

[@anlasbry]

@@dannydaw59 or you can buy them on the day you visit at Castle Clinton, the big brick building in Battery Park.

[@MustafaWahid-ub9ty]

Good information i from Sweden

[@AdelAlKooheji]

Thank you Barr, you're the best. You made my first trip to NYC in 2022 a memorable one. I was alone, I took the airtrain to Jamaica and from there I took LIRR to PENN station. There I spent some time relaxing in the Moynihan Train Hall before taking an uber to my hotel next to Battery park in lower Manhattan. You are indeed the best channel ever to enable first timers like me to tour NYC like pros and enjoy Fort Tryon 😂 Thank you again, Barr.

[@Dynomite611]

I saw this happen to an elderly couple. This taxi driver kept trying to direct this elderly couple to an unmarked car. I told the elderly couple to come with me and said I knew them. I directed them to the marked taxi stand. They thanked me and told me this guy kept hounding them and they got scared. Just stand your ground, find a local and ask for some help. We locals hate these scammers as well!

[@elliotstamler1244]

Do you not realize from what you have written that it was NOT a taxi driver trying. to divert the elderly couple to an unmarked car...it was the "bandit" with that car (that's the term both cabbies and P.A. police use) who was the offender and it can be a criminal offense in NYC with confiscation of the bandit's car?

[@sopdox]

A couple of things to keep in mind about LIRR City Tickets purchased on the TrainTime app… 1. Once tickets are activated they are valid for 1 hr. So don’t activate them until the train is at the station and boarding. 2. If you wait to activate your ticket until the conductor comes around to check tickets, you may be hit with a fine for making the ticket checker wait. It really depends on the ticket checker’s mood. I’ve forgotten to activate my ticket on occasion but never been fined. I’ve heard it happen to others, though. The fine is the difference between the City Ticket discounted fare ($5 or $7) and the cost for a full fare ticket. The last thing to remember is that City Tickets are only for inter borough travel. If your destination happens to be Long Island, you can’t use City Ticket.

[@rcbrascan]

If you buy a train ticket online or through the app, I am not sure there is wifi at the train station so you can't activate it there so you might have to go back to the airport to activate it but then you can't show the activation to the train ticket checker when you are inside the train without wifi.

[@christopher5692]

@@rcbrascan purchase an eSIM with data for $10 Problem solved

[@345paw]

Hi, great video as always! Just wanted to share a tip for the SUPER BUDGET travellers out there. I'm actually surprised it wasn't included in the video. I also didn't see it in the comments yet. 1) Take the free AirTrain ride from any JFK terminal to the Lefferts Blvd AirTrain Station. You will get out of there for free there since you only have to pay for the AirTrain if you are exiting it at either of the final stations (i.e., Howard Beach or Jamaica). No need to pay for the crazy expensive $8.75 ticket (as of November 2023)! Yay! 2) Take the Q10 bus to the Kew Gardens Rd/80 Rd where you will transfer to the E (blue) subway or the F (orange) subway (depending on where you are going). The bus ride takes about 30 minutes. The service is on a large articulated bus which has some special racks for big checked luggage. You might see lots of airport employees and locals using this bus so feel free to ask them for help if you are lost. Importantly, the transfer from the bus to the subway is free within the first 2 hours so it will be free for you on this route. The only thing you will have to pay for is the bus ride. You don't pay for the subway later. 3) Walk from the bus stop to the subway station and get to wherever you need on the E or F subway. For instance, you can get to NY Penn Station (West side of Manhattan) in around 30 minutes on the E train or reach upper Manhattan on the F train in roughly the same time. You can also change the subway line later on. All for just $2.75 (or a single subway ticket price whenever you are reading this). You can't go lower than that! Alternative solution: If you don't fancy a long ride on the bus you can also get off the Q10 bus at the Lefferts Blvd/Liberty Ave bus stop after around 15 minutes and transfer to the A (blue) subway. The name of the subway station is Ozone Park/Lefferts Blvd. Again, you can transfer for free and continue your journey on that train having already paid $2.75 for the bus. Many of my friends use this solution to get to their homes in Brooklyn. You can also get to, for example, Lower Manhattan (Fulton St) in around 30 minutes. Google Maps links for the lazy ones: 1st leg: maps.app.goo.gl/cyGP3951ukh5vpnQ7 2nd leg: maps.app.goo.gl/s8JXvoNn1vQboGV17 The alternative way: 1st leg: maps.app.goo.gl/CcoyF8eykYqEYXTY9 2nd leg: maps.app.goo.gl/CWjBWXGA74qsF3gJ9 This works great especially if you are not in a rush, such as after your flight (and not when heading for one). The only downside of this solution are the waiting times between the AirTrain and the bus and the bus and the subway so you have to take some extra time for this into account but they usually come pretty frequently. The total travel time from JFK to Manhattan (or the other way back) should take you around 1.5 to 2 hours max, depending on my experience. Personally, when catching a flight, I usually go with the LIRR + AirTrain solution since it's the fastest and the most reliable one. It's not so cheap though, especially nowadays. Please, feel free to check this route yourself, perhaps even make a short video about it. I've seen some on KZbin already but they aren't that well-made as your video and lack an in-depth commentary and visual cues. Hope this helps! Note: This is absolutely a legal and legitimate way to get in and out of JFK. There is nothing wrong in skipping the AirTrain fare. The free transfer between the bus and the subway is absolutely legal and legitimate too. It's just not many people seem to know about this way of travelling. And it's really hidden in plain sight - even the official MTA subway maps mark the route of the Q10 bus :)

[@BrananKDesigns]

Facts

[@wearepros1000]

Don’t even come to NYC if you are this level of broke

[@briantdaniel9280]

If you have a lot of time, not much luggage and it is during the day. You can get to Manhattan from JFK for $2.90 Take the AirTrain get off at Lefferts Blvd and catch the B15, Q10 or Q3 bus.  Q10 to transfer to the E train at Kew Gardens station is usually the fastest. AirTrain within terminals is free, bus is $2.90, transfer to subway is free.

[@HereBeBarr]

Yep actionkid did a video on this once

[@briantdaniel9280]

Oh yeah! Thea from Urban Caffeine did too@@HereBeBarr

[@Asad-ci9of]

Fantastic share. Thanks

[@johnoleary148]

Your detail and advice on this video is superb. So well researched and I am sure you will save plenty of people some money if they follow your hints and tips. Everything you would need to know seemed to be covered. If people don't recognise Jon as the best New York KZbinr and view the channel then they are missing out. Everything is covered and done in a simple way. Nice work again Jon.

[@HereBeBarr]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Demetre.Janness]

So glad you showed the subway... Transit workers and most people are kind to point you in the right direction too

[@kevinnorris6558]

That purple bus seen in the background at 0:27, my company actually handles those buses. My current job consists of driving those same buses around the Terminals, usually 1,4 and 8. I say this because I can't stress just how much toursts get scammed by those fake taxi drivers. I've heard stories of these fake taxi drivers lying to tourists and intentionally dropping them off at the wrong place for a high price. One driver dropped some tourists at Federal Circle (5 minutes away from the Terminals), told them it was Manhattan (their intended destination), and actually charged them $100. Another driver charged some tourists $70 to "cross the bridge into Queens", even though both JFK and LGA are in Queens so you don't have to cross any bridges if Queens is your destination. If you're a tourist coming to NY, I'd recommend either getting in a yellow cab or taking an Uber. When you're getting into the car of these fake taxi drivers, you're essentially getting into a random strangers car. They could be the next Ted Bundy and you wouldn't know. Even then, I've also heard of Ubers and actual taxi drivers dropping people off at the wrong terminal and telling them that they're at the right terminal (even though they're clearly not in the right place). Be vigilant in NY, or any city for that matter

[@HereBeBarr]

Thank you for sharing this. Your first-hand advice is MUCH appreciated.

[@rubyfaith2433]

What about flying in around 930 pm can you take transit into midtown/ LES?

[@light1888]

your lying

[@rodoglez11]

Just went on a solo trip to NYC a month ago, it was a short trip (2 days only) and these tips helped so much. I could easily use the subway from JFK into Manhattan and the LIRR as well since I went to a concert at UBS Arena. Both were super easy to use and these videos were so helpful. Got a little lost in the subway at first but once I found the right way everything was super easy. It was my first trip to New York and these videos made it the best, I would want to visit again for a longer time

[@SYDAirlineEnthusiast]

Subway from Manhattan to jfk is only 2.75. An Uber would cost more than a 100 dollars, and 97.25 dollars in New York is important considering how expensive it is there.

[@billmah2684]

Spot on! I'm a NY'er for 50 years and use public transportation all the time, and everything mentioned is 100% accurate.

[@mathewlee5712]

Which airport is best to use public transportation?

[@Locspocs2]

On our last trip I requested a quote for a wheelchair accessible van from JFK to Midtown. The travel agency of a major European airline forwarded me a quote for some $800. I asked them whether I get to keep the van for that price. If not, then I'd respectfully decline. We ended up taking the AirTrain and LIRR to Penn Station for cca $30. BTW: there are elevators at Jamaica for the E train and all platforms of the LIRR too: if you have luggage, or a wheelchair or both, you can take the elevator.

[@HereBeBarr]

Good point, i didn't look for the elevator!!

[@kfinn]

The best SIM option for international travel is an eSIM. No need for a physical card and most modern phones that supports eSIM lets you use your primary SIM as normal, but switch to the eSIM for data. Super convenient.

[@grapefruitsyrup8185]

What's the usual pricing and data limit you usually? Found too many options online with varying different pricing and idw to get scammed lol.

[@annew.1]

Interesting. I am heading to Malaysia later this year and plan to check out their numerous phone shops that have esim capable phones hopefully that also can work internationally if not the U. S. also. My U. S. phone is not esim capable.

[@MikeM-ll3ib]

I have been to Manhattan so many times. I DID NOT have one good experience with Taxi. Even though I confirmed is a flat rate before I got into the Taxi, he still demanded more money once I was in the car. He kept saying is not even worth it for him. Unwillingly, I even tipped him 18 percent tips for the ride. He canceled the transaction and told me I have to tipped him more. I told him that’s it. So he just stopped in near vicinity, threw my suitcase out and took off. I did not even know where I was, I had to walk another 15 min before I got to my hotel. Now I only do Uber or Lyft no matter how much it costs.

[@texassecession6422]

Yup. Uber and Lyft are more reliable. One time with Uber, the final fare ended up becoming more than twice of the original fare due to unexpected heavy traffic. I contacted the customer service and they refunded the money right away. You always want to get the service from major companies than from individuals.

[@erikh9991]

The nicest and most helpful people in NYC was the older black ladies. They came to my rescue so many times. Everyone else was super busy or smelt like pee-pee.

[@SamDVisual]

Another route you can take is drop off at the Lefferts air train station and take the Q10 bus, (you'll need a metro card/OMNY/ tap to pay) ride the bus until you reach Liberty Ave and as you get off, to your left will be the beginning of the subway A line (whatever payment method you use to ride the Q10 bus whether it be a metro card/OMNY/ tap to pay you'll use to get onto the A train) and from there you can ride directly to 34th St Penn Station, 42nd St and Columbus Circle. (it takes average about an hour to reach those locations via the A train)

[@lelandmatsuda5716]

Thanks John for the great advice. I was wary of these scammers because of you. They’re right by the taxi sign at JFK, they look somewhat in a company uniform(some of them) and they say “taxi?” to you. I asked one are you really a taxi service and he just looked away. I don’t understand how they can so blatantly scam and get away with it with the authorities not stepping in.

[@KnowledgeMass]

tipping in the US stresses me out. I am from Europe, live in the UK where tipping is 100% discretionary if you're over the moon with the service. If you're just happy with the service you say "Thank you". That's it. Can I refuse to tip in the US? Honestly I don't want to be doing math in my head 20% etc.

[@moonbeamskies3346]

As a 55 year old lifelong U.S. citizen, I can confirm that our custom of tipping for services rendered is a pain in the a$$. It is pretty much expected to tip at non-fast food restaurants when eating in the restaurant, and for food delivery, and cab drivers, and hotels whenever they clean up your room or for room service. People tip as much as 20%. Sometimes a gratuity is automatically added for parties of 3 or more, and people tip on top of that. I avoid tipping wherever I can, such as whenever I order food to go.

[@Jack-v4i4u]

I never do that math. I don’t eat at big fancy restaurants where they’d get picky about it. But mostly I just tip like 5 bucks. Sometimes it’s more than the percentage some times it’s not. I sometimes I’ll tip more if I feel bad for the waitress cause she’s the only working on a Saturday morning after the bars clothes. That chick got like $175 between me a friend.

[@BibW-t5g]

Never tip unless sit down restaurant!

[@darbas57]

The cheapest way to get to Manhattan from jfk is 2.95 . You take Q10 bus to union turnpike, last stop ,transfer is for free, to Manhattan. You can also take Q10 to lefferts boulevard and take the A train to to Manhattan. This is for skilled travelers. It's not short, timewise. But 2.95 beats 90 dollars. And you get to see 'other' New York.

[@MrBecker666]

I did just that… works good and a CC that supports wireless would work as a MetroPass no extra charge

[@Harrysharry1]

@darbas57 can you please guide more details like JFK to New York city by bus how to get bus thank you

[@darbas57]

@@Harrysharry1 you can take the bus at terminal 4. I would check it with people at the airport. Unfortunately, not many are aware of this option.

[@darbas57]

@ukreallife this will take you to kew Gardens Subway station where you transfer for free. Or you can get off at lefferts Boulevard on the air train and catch the A train. .

[@Harrysharry1]

@@darbas57 thanks

[@citizenleroy]

Thank you so much for this video! We just came back to Seattle from NYC. When we landed at LaGuardia airport, immediately we were approached by the fake taxi people. Instead, we used Revel the whole trip which we learned from you first! Thank you again! 🙏🏻📷🗽🚕 0:57

[@stevetaylormtb]

Great video! We went to NYC earlier this year and found using the Subway super easy. One of the scams we were a bit unsure about was a stall selling an 'unlimited Metro card' right after using the AirTrain. Quite a few tourists queued and paid but we opted not to as I hadn't seen anything of the like in any of your videos or on the MTA site. I'm fairly sure it's not a thing but just a warning to anyone reading! Thanks as always Jon, we'll be back soon!

[@carloscastano-y5h]

ive used to live in nyc my self for 16 years please dont acepet anythng from anybody dont buy metro cards unless is from an mtba teller and dont get into any car

[@emjayay]

If it is inside the AirTrain terminal it's OK. But there are a bunch of machines like in every subway station, and now you can use your phone or credit card at the gate instead, also like any subway station.

[@NJTDover]

I'd never ride on the NYC subway unless Charles Bronson or Jack Reacher are on the same coach.

[@AWESAM616]

@@NJTDoverwuss

[@boschmenno]

@@NJTDover Haha, how about Clint

[@luzon454]

For the LIRR at Jamaica Station, there are elevators that take you to the platforms. They are located on the opposite side of the escalators.

[@MattNav]

Wonderful job as always Jon! And for those who are super cheapskates, there's always the option of taking the Airtrain to Lefferts Blvd station in order to get the bus into Queens and connect to the subway for $2.90 (free transfer with OMNY from bus to subway) therefore avoiding the Airtrain fee since Lefferts Blvd station is part of the Airtrain's free travel zone.

[@Steeeve_]

What I'm wondering is if it is possible to save any significant amount of walking by taking the Q3 to Locust Manor or an express bus.

[@aeve94]

Glad you're doing this video. I wish something like this existed when I first came to nyc, and started traveling in and out of the city. I always spent a fortune on Uber, simply because I was never confident enough to travel by cab. But lately, unless I have more than one suitcase, I just take the train. Takes much longer, but definitely cheaper 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@lightning77125]

The E train is great and doesn't even take too long.

[@JoseFlores-kl6jm]

Hey Jon, so my next visit to NYC will be my fifth visit. Even though I'm an experienced traveler it's good to be aware of some potential new scams in NYC.

[@johnmiller5679]

If you don’t mind take the sky train to the Jamaica LIRR train station, then get off and wait for the next train that goes to Penn Station. While you are waiting there is a bar you can get a drink at.

[@gunsmoke7239]

You are just an amazing helpful man I ever know exist ❤ Thanks for the superb info and high quality vids Dreaming of visiting to NYC someday with your amazing super helpful tips.

[@HereBeBarr]

Happy to help!

[@Max0927NY]

You can also reach the A, E, F train by bus at terminal 8 . Buy a single, daily or weekly metro card before exit at Kiosk inside Howard Beach last stop Air Train (Do not exit ), than come back to terminal 8. Go downstairs and take the Q10 Bus. He stops close to A train and its last stop is at Kew Gardens-Union Tpke close to E, F Subway. Everitime I go to NY, I reach my destination in the same way the JFK workers do. Probably it takes a bit more time , but if you are in budget or prefer spend your money in a different way, You'll save a lot

[@Zantides]

I noticed similar scams in Oslo Norway. I order a local cab, couldn't see it so i figured i'd ask the cabs outside where i could locate my ride. One said it's not this cab, some other taxi told me to cancel my ride so he could take me instead, then the first on screams out the window "This is not your ride". Then thank f the local taxi calls my phone and tells me he's waiting outside of the peremiter, one love for local taxies, no bullshit.

[@cris2ivan]

Ty all these videos are helpful for people visiting for the first time👍 I was there over the weekend, my 2nd time, visiting from LA.. I took the air train to jamaica station, took the E train to 42nd vise versa on the way back, and moved around the city all for $30👍

[@yaycupcake]

I'm a NYC local and I never even thought of taking the LIRR to Manhattan, or really anywhere both too and from within city limits. But that's genius, definitely a consideration for the next time I travel, since I live in midtown anyway.

[@emjayay]

It costs more than the subway but is faster. It would also depend on where exactly you are going to.

[@rcbrascan]

If you are a carrying large luggage, I don't recommend the LIRR to Manhattan because there is usually no place to put the luggage and you can't take a seat and leave it unattended or have it blocking train aisles or doors.

[@caam0000]

With the sim card, if your phone supports eSIM, an app like T-mobile prepaid eSIM, is way easier. You don't need to go to a specific place, but instead buy it back home, or with the airport WiFi.

[@RedwoodGeorge]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I came into New York via JFK for the first time and this video was an invaluable guide. I'm a fan of public transit rather than a taxi and the suggest to use the LIRR rather than the subway is spot-on. After watching this video, it was easy to go find a ticket kiosk and by an off-peak ticket for $5, then take the train into Grand Central. (My hotel was at W 40th and Fifth, so a short walk away). And from having just passed through there this week, the Sky Train is now accepting contactless payment - I just beeped my smart watch at the turnstile and went right through!

[@tube.brasil]

Tip $15-20 a Uber? That's crazy, it doesnt happen anywhere else in the world. Maybe $5 for exceptional service.

[@SYDAirlineEnthusiast]

Usa has an expectation for people to tip up to 25 percent of the total cost and sales tax, and an Uber from midtown Manhattan to LaGuardia alone can come to more than 80 dollars when traffic is not heavy.

[@ezra420420]

Maybe you’re just cheap

[@ezra420420]

Uber and Lyft fix their prices

[@tube.brasil]

@@ezra420420 Maybe you are just naive and easily fooled.

[@tube.brasil]

@@SYDAirlineEnthusiast Interesting because in other countries it's not common to tip an Uber driver unless the service was exceptional.

[@ckong3309]

Great video Jon. I used your videos when I planned a trip to NY Feb '23. I find your advice always easy to understand.

[@robynmoore3434]

Nearly got caught. We were approached by a man (very well dressed) man saying do u want a limo to your hotel? Thought yes. Then he lead us to a car park a long way away. I just had a bad feeling then and there - said no thanks. Glad to this day.

[@romanccccc123]

I recommend Go airlink. My wife and I just traveled to NY and I pre-booked a shuttle shared ride and I paid $62 one way from JFK to midtown manhattan.. and $62 from manhattan to la guardia one way 🤷🏽‍♂️ to me and my wife taking a shuttle is like taking a tour on your way to your hotel ..

[@xdxdsheep]

There are these Chinese run "taxi" in Chinatown. I usually call a car ahead of time, and It was $35 + $5 tip last year. Your destination doesn't need to be Chinatown btw. They usually have someone handing out business card under the Manhattan bridge and in Flushing. This is more of a local thing, but it is by far the cheapest, most reliable and comfortable way for me to go to JFK or LGA.

[@tomjefferies4318]

Excellent advice. I’ve always taken the Air Train to the subway. Now I’ll be taking the LIRR instead.

[@7aloha7]

I live in Queens, NY. I usually use a yellow taxi from the airports, both JFK and LaGuardia. The Yellow taxi lines always move very fast at both airports.

[@ArmandRoseTV]

Your vlogs were super helpful on our trip a couple of months ago. We took Revel from JFK and the driver had issues finding us due to construction at that terminal but it was still the best experience and price overall.

[@JasonRuppVlog]

Brilliance. Everykne needs this airport arrival video. So nany will fall for this taxi scam.

[@cindee1794]

I have actually used shuttle services on my two trips to Manhattan from JFK. While it did take longer getting around the actual island, we got to the island quickly and it was considerably cheaper. I booked and paid for my rides in advance, so I only had to locate the shuttle desk and check in when I got to the airport

[@HereBeBarr]

I've heard mixed reviews on these. The people that sat for 2 hours though I felt for.

[@cindee1794]

@@HereBeBarr It took about that long for me, but I didn't mind. It's door to door service and you sit in the plane longer than that.

[@alguien1234]

How can you book those? Do they have an official website?

[@Jumogoh]

@@HereBeBarr Yeah! I also had two trips with a shuttle from EWR and JFK in 2016 and 2019. Both times we were stuck in traffic and the first time we were the last to unboard in Manhattan. It took us 2-3 hours to get to our destination. I swore, that if I ever travel to Manhattan in my life again, that I will take the subway (or the LIRR after watching this video), not because of the price but because of the traffic.

[@ClareB78]

I used the Air Train and LIRR when I visited recently and it was so easy! A really lovely member of staff at Jamaica Station helped me get the cheapest ticket to Penn Station, I’d definitely use the train again.

[@kathythompson9931]

John you kick a__! You are so informative and knowledgeable and smart and friendly! You are the lifeline to big & beautiful NYC! Thank you very, very much!

[@HereBeBarr]

Wow, thank you!

[@HyperDaveUK]

Thanks for sharing about this, its twenty years since I was scammed by a Yellow Taxi in NYC, I complained to NYC Taxi commission who paid half the amount back into my bank account six weeks later. The Taxi Driver tried to use a file with costs in to tell me they were special Airport charges. I'm glad I got the difference returned. Others might not.

[@alessandropataro4422]

Thank you for you for the very detailed information, great video!! I do not live in the US and I was mindblown when I heard in your video that even taxi or rideshare drivers are expected to receive a 15 to 20% tip!! Really?? Where I live, it is actually illegal to even "suggest" a tip, either printed on the recepit or vocally by the staff. Tipping should never be mandatory, but optional.

[@RowletGod69]

It’s because taxi drivers here are not paid the typical wages one would think. Yes, tipping culture is crazy

[@debmele48]

Thank you for your great info. I love nyc! Just left there a couple weeks ago. Will be back in the summer. I do something different each time. Normally travel into the city by lirr to penn station. Never had a problem (last time got a free pass as you did). On route to jfk this time used hotel taxi...it was great @$85! Tip was separate but well worth the lack of stress!

[@abenm613]

If I’m not mistaking, Airtrain is now equipped with OMNY, which means it allows direct credit card payment just like the subway.

[@5argetech56]

My brother Jon always has the goods! Born in Brooklyn, now living in central Georgia. When I visit my city of birth, brother Jon's tips are worth their weight in gold!

[@jimmyjames6492]

Thanks for the tips + video!

[@billwilliams4569]

On my last trip to NYC in January of this year, I also lucked out an got fee waiver at the end of the AirTrain. A nice surprise! Additionally I had the good fortune to take the LIRR into Grand Central the day after that segment opened, a train trip that takes less than 20 minutes. Once I arrived at Grand Central, I only had to walk across the street to reach my hotel. In total, it was under an hour between stepping off my airplane and getting settled into my hotel room (all for less than $7.00). As you pointed out in the video, there is no "down" escalator to the train platform at Jamaica Station, but there is an elevator for those with mobility issues or a lot of luggage.

[@AnonymousV4]

It used to be so much worse before the airtrain and dedicated taxi stand. You'd probably get approached about 20 times before making it to the street. Also I think the flat rate back to JFK from anywhere in NYC is worth mentioning.

[@farab4391]

FYI. From the UK I got a 3 (Three, the mobile provider) Pay As You Go SIM. When you top it up with £15 you get 12GB roaming data which includes the USA, plus the usual unlimited calls/texts. It actually comes with 75GB local data, but that wasn't important to me, since I'll only be using the SIM while in NY. The other benefit of getting this PAYG SIM is that the top up is valid for a month, whereas the other 'holiday' SIMs I see are usually only for 6 or 7 days and becomes very expensive for more days.

[@NewarkAirportTaxiService]

I am very happy with your thorough and engaging explanation about these illegal individuals who ask travelers to use their cars for transportation, while they are scammers. I am glad to support your advocacy for legal transportation means and I seek your permission, on behalf of the official airport taxi service, to borrow a segment from your video and share it on our social media page, and I will give credit to you

[@johnslyfield5096]

A lot of tips apply to anywhere you go virtually anywhere. Like make sure your ride is good. Public transit is the cheapest and it’s actually quick - 30 minutes from JFK to manhattan (plus wait time for air train and LIRR)

[@letsrolloutnyc]

Hey Jon, it’s Vinny 😎. Yeah, this is very good information for all the tourist coming into New York City. You have given them so many options and what to look out for. Great video Jon 💪🏽

[@TheRealDeeMarie]

I’m planning my first trip which just so happens to be a solo trip. I think I’m more confused now but I like all the gems about cost of taxis and ride shares. I’m going to do more research

[@MikeyDarwish]

I’m a native NYer, born and raised and still living in Brooklyn, and I was entertained and learned things I didn’t know 😭

[@noelht1]

Absolutely right about Revolut. I’ve used it all over the world for years. Put it into perspective on $10,000 exchange you will say £500 compared to a British high street bank. All that’s £50 on $1000. That’s worth saving.

[@cleevensguerrier7724]

Very useful video, great job 👍

[@nandanarasimhan7634]

Awesome Coverage..absolutely loved it!

[@mistersuisse2864]

I love you - knowledgeable, helpful , kind and very very cute xx I used to fly to JFK once per month and well things have changed in 8 years , that was the last time

[@albertmuhe5529]

Great a video,I had been driving for 32 years in New York City,and those drivers always are there. those dispatchers knew,and everyone are conecten. It is a big scammed.Also is bad for the turism. With all those problems after you visited “ the big apple’’ people will never comeback. It very sad

[@jasonruppextras8313]

Absolutely I always take the subway to and from the airports. Simple. Good video!!

[@patricequinn7733]

I agree with other commenters that these videos are really helpful. It's not barr's fault but negotiating all this with apps is daunting for seniors.

[@Justin-jr7xq]

Love your content, we followed lots of your tips when we visited in june. Only slight negative from your videos is that if people make an effort to come over to say hi, be a little more welcoming, you do come across as quite dismissive and abrupt, I know its New York but giving a little time and warmth means a lot to people.

[@fabianmckenna8197]

One very important point to make is for travellers to stick together........ UK citizens who arrived in New York from Washington DC by train with our American daughter and made our way out the subway. My wife couldn't manage the ramp so took the lifts and ended up stuck behind ticket barriers with no tickets while our daughter was outside. Trying to get a phone signal was a nightmare but our daughter eventually figured out where we were and rescued us but also had to buy tickets to get back in and to get us out......

[@general682002]

Great video! I've been to NYC few times myself in the past. The official NYC yellow 🚖 is look for the medallion on the hood and license plate matches along with number, letter, number, number, etc! Uber I've used experienced in the past, always look at the license plate matches on your info from your phone as well the type of vehicle and color!

[@justsomerandomguy4269]

I was in New York over new years and the first thing that happened in the arrivals hall was a woman approaching me who then told me that I can get a better price by coming with her to a taxi. When I told her I’m not interested she insisted that I’m wasting money. I had to directly tell her that I don’t care until she finally left me alone.

[@dcapelasso11]

Basic rule for tourists! Anywhere.

[@bernadettedearness4532]

Some great tips t Here, very useful! I've been to NY 3 or 4 times...last time did a shuttle...not again. Coming in from Australia the easiest way is Taxi.

[@andrewbarrett2685]

My wife and I visited NYC last October for our 40th wedding anniversary our first holiday for 10 years..we flew in got a yellow cab he drove us to Manhattan and asked me at the destination was I paying by card or cash, I said cash he promptly said he loved cash and charged us 200 dollars for a 20 minute ride his name he told me was Mr Singh...I'd call him a con artist to be honest it was not a pleasant start to our holiday.

[@shane_gentle]

And for international travelers needing local SIM cards, if your phone supports it, you can consider getting an eSIM and activate it without another stop.

[@iseemelanie]

I usually come through EWR when I go to NYC but in October I flew out of JFK. I took the subway/LIRR/Airtrain to get there and I swear I will never do it again!

[@tomatogoat]

Thank you so much for the Video! Without it, I would have fallen for the scam at JFK. Be aware, the scammers changed tactics. When I went to NY last week, they did not try to catch me within the airport building but waited outside right next to the taxi dispatchers. When a person approached me - while standing already in line to get a taxi - I thought it was just another taxi dispatcher helping me to get a taxi more quickly. Only when that person entered a grey Tesla, I realized they were trying to rip me off and I got back into the official taxi line.

[@John-wx2ce]

Taxi from the airport is the way to go. They are right there waiting, as opposed to ride share and the difference in cost is a rounding error. Going back to the airport get your hotel arrange a car service. They will be on time, so you can maximize your time before heading out. We routinely check out, leave our bags with the hotel valet and grab lunch. Avoid public transit to and from the airport. It will take way longer, you will have to take multiple legs and still will need to shlep with your bags to your hotel. And it can be complicated.

[@MegaLokopo]

Take public transportation one stop away from the airport and then get an uber the price is often much much lower.

[@rebelwithatwist13]

What would you suggest if arriving at LaGuardia

[@MegaLokopo]

@@rebelwithatwist13 I have never been, I assume there is no public transport to the airport, you could try any free hotel shuttles often they don't check for reservations, and you can just leave after they drop you off at the hotel, that would avoid any airport fees and just uber from whatever hotel they dropped you off at. Yea it may be a bit slower, but if it saves you 50 or more dollars in uber airport fees it may or may not be worth it for you.

[@kristinchong629]

John is the best. He like really did it. Like he has that skill of just being that person who can make a wide range of people feel like you're in the right place at the right time.

[@alguien1234]

I already have Revolut, but I think I'll need cash to buy things like the pizza for 1 dollar and those kinds of things... Which app are you using to check where the ATMs are? Are there some at the airport? Do you recommend getting the cash there?

[@Skaahn]

Even the Taxix from jfk dont run on meters, they charge a flat fare about $75 to $90

[@robinandthedog]

I don’t know about NY, but where I live in Lisbon, taxis are the best option because they are allowed on bus lanes, but almost nobody knows this and takes Ubers. It can save you up to one hour in big traffic.

[@grsshpr1854]

We're about to go to new york in 8 days and your videos are helping to understand so much thank you!

[@bowei4237]

Just fly to Lga if you can. It’s gonna save you a lot of time (no traffic it only takes 15-20min to manhattan) taxi ride is around 40-50, and it’s recently renovated.

[@selmaselmoushe]

There's a bus people 😂

[@donttar3196]

Hi, quick question. Any advice on if I want to rent a Turo at LGA, JFK airport? Are there scammers for rental cars as well?

[@lisaconway2553]

I'm coming over from Edinburgh Scotland in October and I've binge watched so many of your videos now. Thanks for all the hints and tips. Definitely lots of great recommendations.

[@gotham61]

It probably would have been handy to mention that the AirTrain is only a thing at JFK and Newark. Public transit options at La Guardia are very limited. At JFK, it's usually better to take the AirTrain to Howard Beach, then the A train to Manhattan. The A covers more useful stops in Manhattan.

[@mrtom7584]

Extra tip...never pay for a trolley with a credit card. i can't remember exactly, but the price at jfk started at an ok price, plus credit card fee, plus, plus, plus, plus..in the end it was a crazy price, for almost nothing.

[@simonp37]

We were there earlier this year. Just went straight for the licensed cabs and got to Long Island City for a decent price. We arrived quite late, so it was a good option for a first timer in NYC I think.

[@vilmawilson7058]

Incredibly helpful. Thank you so much.

[@ashwilliams999]

I had a similar instance of being targeted by an unofficial taxi. I’d booked a town car and went to the designated stand at JFK. After a few minutes a black town car pulled up alongside me and looking at his tablet told me that he’d just seen that my designated car was delayed in traffic, but it was OK as his job had just been cancelled and he was free to take me instead. I asked him what my surname was and he initially tried to ignore my question but when I asked again, he just drove off. Needless to say my car arrived a few minutes later and had my surname on his tablet. I often wonder what would have happened had I accepted the fake car, given that I’d paid upfront on an app for the service.

[@amymalina5073]

Best thing to happen at JFK is the air train that connects to the LIRR that takes you either to Grand Central or Penn Station. Easy to do and cheap! Maybe if you have a lot of luggage it’s not so easy but otherwise, this is the best infrastructure change to NYC and JFK. Cost one way from Grand Central: $13.50 (including one senior rate from GRand Central) Cost of cab from JFK to Grand Central: $110 + tip Note: the cab rate was cheaper than Uber by $10 so that’s why I chose the cab. These rates were from June, 2024 The Air Train costs $8.50, one rate for everyone

[@BgirlAxe]

This video is very helpful. Especially since you run us through the transit part

In my last trip to NYC I was about to take a TownCar Service but my Travel Mate though that a regular Transfer Bus would be cheaper, BIG MISTAKE! The TownCar Service asked for U$D 55 while the Shuttle service was U$D 38 (per Pax)... then the Driver was quite moody, he came across two separate incidents while driving towards MidTown and upon arrival left us 3 blocks from the Hotel due to "delay onn schedule"... Take a Limo/TownCar Service instead the Shuttle Bus Service.

[@wallyg77]

Another good tip is to avoid the people selling swipes at Jamaica Station, also the E train to the 6 train for me is easy if you're going to midtown on the east side

[@ec7568]

Took the LIRR to GC last weekend....was on Track 2 at Jamaica and as the train was pulling in they said sorry it's on Track 1 now....track 2 is going to Penn. Tourists need to pay attention because the LIRR has no cares to give to any passenger.

[@timjohnson1578]

great information!!

[@bridgetanderson149]

I got a big yellow taxi from JFK to Times Square and in total was $100 but I asked to avoid all tolls. We had no stress and direct to hotel. However I’ve had many people try and scam me for a lift. Travel safe ❤