12 Dumb MISTAKES Tourists Make in New York City

What are some of the most common Tourist Mistakes to avoid in NYC?
📝 Plan the Ultimate NYC Trip! Shop our NEW Guides/Itineraries: www.thatch.co/@...
🎬 Watch our NYC Observation Deck Reviews: • EDGE Sky Deck at Hudso...
⭐ CHEAPEST Way To Book NYC Attractions: gyg.me/J449y9gl
⭐ SUPPORT The Channel on Patreon: / herebebarr
🎨 Buy an NYC Art Print/Postcard from Adriana's Store: www.etsy.com/s...
✔️ SUBSCRIBE NOW! DON’T FORGET! The more the merrier! :)
🍕 Buy Me A Slice of Pizza: www.buymeacoff...
✈️ TRAVEL FOR FREE With These Rewards Credit Cards: bit.ly/328jVBX
👕 Buy Some Merchandise (T-Shirts/Hoodies/Coffee Mugs): teespring.com/...
CONNECT-
✅ VISIT MY WEBSITE: www.ny-guide.com
✅ FOLLOW ME ON IG: / here.be.barr
✅ FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: / herebebarr
✅ LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: / herebebarr
✅ FOLLOW ME ON TIKTOK: @HereBeBarr
📧 SEND ME AN EMAIL: ny-guide.com/c... (Note: I don't offer private tours of NYC. I only have the time to respond to business/media inquiries)
👋 Shout out to our Highline and Higher Members:
ActionKid , Chelsea Prince, Robin Palmer, Gerome L David, Susie Okimoto, Colten Jordan, Todd Stilphen, Pittsburgh Living, Jennifer Goff, Aimey Tunthasuwatana, Adam Wood, Joe Mann, Mihael Kašnar, Cole, Kevin Lippes, JJ, Martin Hannis, Tom Shaner, and Joe Sutton.
🎥 My Equipment:
(Support this channel, by buying through these affiliate links)
Canon M50 (Main Vlogging Camera): amzn.to/2v2b3Sb
Brevite Backpack (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED): www.brevite.co/...
DJi Mavic Pro Drone: amzn.to/2qOfyJj
CANON G7X MARK II: amzn.to/2ket6Oz
GO PRO HERO 5: amzn.to/2iYr8g9
Go Pro Sport Kit/Accessories: amzn.to/2m0kUzF
Big Joby Tripod: amzn.to/2m0mFNk
Little Joby Tripod: amzn.to/2m0pApr
New Outlander Daypack (20 L size great for holding gear): amzn.to/2mjy0KX
Canon Battery Pack NB-13L: amzn.to/2kIWokF
SanDisk Extreme 128GB Flash Memory Card: amzn.to/2jLJYsr
Skinny Micromuff (essential for wind noise): micromuff.com/
"More About Here Be Barr"
I'm Jon Barr, an ex-sportscaster turned travel vlogger. If you're looking for waste no-time ,incredibly informative videos loaded with useful travel tips, you've come to the right place! My vlogs are made for the savvy traveler. Subscribe to learn all of my travel tips, tricks, and secrets that have helped me visit 33 countries. Based out of NYC but always on the go.
Disclosure: Some of the card links and other products that appear on this video are from companies which Jon Barr will earn an affiliate commission or referral bonus. Jon Barr is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com. Some offers may no longer be available or expired from the date of the published video. The information in this video was not provided by any of the companies mentioned, and has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
🎼 Get 1 Month Of Free Awesome Music For Your KZbin Videos: share.epidemics...
Music w/Epidemic Sound: Fall Call- Dusty Decks
Mystique- Dusty Decks
Soul Single Serenade- Dusty Decks

[@HereBeBarr]

📝It Would Be a Mistake NOT To Shop Our NEW NYC Travel Guides Here: bit.ly/BarrGuidesNYC1

[@chsheraz4946]

New York city beautiful 😍😍😍😍😍😍❤️❤️❤️

[@VickyBantaChrist]

😍🇺🇸🙌😇🌏

[@ICECHICK5]

We were headed to the Bronx zoo on the train and missed the stop! When we looked confused and asked someone for help six people gave us the proper advice all at once and we got there with no problem!

[@crazeyjoe]

Another major mistake that should be added is visiting the same chain eateries in NYC that one can find in one's own home town.

[@lordhelmit1499]

That's an insulting one IMO. I see so many tourists eating at the Times Square Olive Garden or Applebees and I want to shake all of them

[@vyprrgirl3012]

I don’t even go to those chains in my hometown

[@agustindejesus7398]

@@iamethanmiller Et, Rats live in McDonalds. They come out at night to lick whatever they can when the store is close.

[@agustindejesus7398]

@@iamethanmillerEth, they live in any rest in NYC....i guess you will stop eating out....but it is a good idea. On the other hand....if you dont see it, it will not hurt you...but it could.

[@java-gn1xs]

@@agustindejesus7398 the first time I ever went on the subway in New York as a kid there was a rat on the subway and I was terrified but the locals didn’t really seem to have to much of a reactions

[@Itsbrentk]

The restrooms at the Shops at Columbus Circle are the best in midtown!

[@The_Alexandra_B]

ParkWhiz is my go to when looking for parking in the city. We once parked our car for 3 days over Presidents’ Day weekend for less than $80.

[@PostcardCathy]

That weather report tip, to me, is mostly common sense but even so, you should do it everywhere, including your hometown, not just NYC. And the stopping at the topping at the top of the stairs is simply common courtesy and can be applied to many other places ie the escalator at the mall amd is something you should have learned in early childhood.

[@susie9893]

I found a lot of these common sense but unfortunately there are SO many ppl out there who do exactly this! Happens where I live all the time and most of the time it happens you can tell that person is new to the city (OR just in their own little world and inconsiderate of everyone else)

[@akahina]

I only visited NYC once for a week about 8 years ago. We spent a whole day and evening exploring Central Park. Walked and zig zagged back and forth for the entire length. We would take the subway sometimes to a destination and walk for miles back. Mostly we got familiar with a Iot of the city. My suggestion is forget observation decks unless the wait is short. It was hours when we were there. Maybe I am a savvy traveler because I try to avoid tourist areas. I like to call myself a traveler, not a tourist.

[@blahzayy]

I love this!👏🏽💯

[@debbiegum2226]

Unfortunately “stopping” in a high traffic area happens everywhere you go

[@dkgy75]

Last time I visited NYC, I managed to get the wrong Subway train, I was travelling with my son who was 9 at the time, and didn't realise until I was in Brooklyn when I wanted to be in the Financial District. As a Londoner, I was really surprised how helpful the other passengers on the Subway were in helping me find my way back. One person was getting off at the next stop, and accompanied us through the station until we were certain to get the right way back. New Yorkers seem gruff, but it's no-nonsense rather than unfriendly.

[@ActionKid]

All great tips! Restroom usage is so important in NYC!

[@agustindejesus7398]

Act, do i have to sit in the place for one and half hour before i walk away....that is usually when i feel like to go after i eat.

[@Hypestrike1]

Here's another tip: When strolling on the sidewalk, if you want to pause to take a photo, step close to the curb (but obviously not into traffic) or back against the side of a building to take your photo. NEVER stop right in the middle of the sidewalk because you will impede the flow of pedestrian traffic and are likely to get shouldered or bumped into by a fast-moving pedestrian.

[@agustindejesus7398]

Hype, thats a good one. I always get upset when three or four people stop on the middle of the sidewalk to talk and i have to say....excuse me in order to go by.

[@grazz7865]

Knocked to the ground and stepped on if it’s me😂😂

[@Hypestrike1]

@@grazz7865 I'm in New York right now and am sticking rigidly to my own rule.

[@nigel4776]

He mentions this in a previous guide

[@lohphat]

As Johnny T says: "Walk fast or get outta da way!"

[@psucsi4145]

Actually avoided a lot of these by watching a ton of your videos and piecing the tips together. Great compilation video. If I can add a tip, consider a bicycle tour of Central Park. Rent an e-bike if you worry about hills or pedaling for a couple hours. We saw most of the major attractions and can now target specific areas to focus on in future visits.

[@jamesr4464]

I went to Tokyo then NYC and Tokyo is far better and cheaper.

[@derekosborne375]

My brother in Christ as someone who lives in America, flying to NYC is a fraction of the cost of

[@amandaleggett]

I know people assume that New Yorkers are jerks, but we were just there for the first time for a week in April, and every single local we interacted with was *wonderful*. Friendly, helpful, engaging. We didn’t have a single bad experience, and we’re from the south, so we have a pretty high standard for friendliness 😅

[@E4Sierra]

That largely depends on what particular area/neighborhood you're in (within any given borough). If however you remain mostly in places where tourists tend to concentrate, it makes sense that residents were friendly and willing to take time to help.

[@marti_flute]

#8 Please don't engage with (Disney or other) characters on the street AT ALL. And do not take a CD or bracelet that someone offers. They are worthless and the people want your money for nothing.

[@HereBeBarr]

That's the BEST tip. I was referring to people that actually want to engage them and not tip.

[@marti_flute]

@@HereBeBarr I get what you are saying. I guess I don't get why people want to engage with them. Thanks.

[@Neville60001]

@Marti, the bracelet scam also exists in Paris as well, according to Mark Wolters of the Wolters World website and KZbin channel.

[@woltersworld]

Great tips! And number 1 is the best one! So true!

[@HereBeBarr]

Thanks 🙏🏻 can’t wait to meet for pizza in NYC

[@JF-vw9lv]

Here be Mark.

[@SeaBassTian]

I definitely concur with the "knowing what you plan to order before getting online" tip. Once when I was a teen, we came into the city and stopped off at a diner for lunch. When I started hemming and hawing about what to order, the server straight up told me "I ain't got time for you, boy!"" Kind of sums it up.

[@douglasjgallup]

I lived in NYC for years and tip#4 is gold. New yorkers really aren't rude, but if you stop and look for directions in a busy part of a station or in the middle of the sidewalk you'll get some crap. As a tourist please be aware that 9 million people actually live here and they're trying to get to work/pick up kids/buy groceries/get home. My two big tips: 1) spend time in the outer boroughs. They're less busy but there's lots of great things to see like Coney Island, Arthur Avenue, Brooklyn museum, etc. 2) schedule a Big Apple Greeter. Did you know you can get a *free* tour guide to take you around for 4 hours? They even match you with someone with similar interests as you.

[@janettejones5264]

I love the boroughs first places I visit on any day trip

[@janettejones5264]

New yorkers are Not rude some of the nicest people on earth they are just trying to get to where they need to go

[@amorepixie7]

Hi how can I schedule a big apple greeter ?

[@stevenj2380]

Reiterating abut subway. There is no such thing as 'red line, blue line..' etc. Don't ever ask about taking 'Blue Line" etc. to such and such a place. Nor is there anything called "OWL Service" *bus, or " Night Busses". Most NYers have never heard of such a thing. Bus routes and numbers stay the same. Unfortunately, some late night subway line overlapping services are combined, amongst differences. But then, repairs and emergencies may cause detours or service stops that your apps can't account for. At your own risk. Even some deaths this year, from pushing onto tracks and knifings in subway at increasing rate - mostly mentally ill homeless. Be aware of persons around and stay back from track. while waiting ( avoid crowds as well, if possible) . Too many young females are totally absorbed in their phones. lots of time on entering/ exiting I have been inches away and they are oblivious.

[@Carl_Johnson_from_grove_street]

Rule 3!!!!! should apply everywhere. hate when people wait for the LAST second to check the menu when theres a huge line

[@HereBeBarr]

amen

[@JF-vw9lv]

Especially when you can view menus online or from your phone.

[@ellebelle6439]

I never do i just look and order anything I can see because I usually walk in randomly and it's too busy to stand outside and pull up the menu 😅

[@jocelynsmyth6604]

And of you're not sure, let someone go in front of you!

[@EscapingtheEmptyNest]

All right.. We made ONE of those mistakes on our trip. I wanted a gyro in times Square, and I ordered one from a cart, and it was served on a HOT DOG BUN! SMH. Great video Jon!

[@HereBeBarr]

Hahahah. That's too funny.

[@agustindejesus7398]

Esca, if you only knew about how filthy those carts are, where they rest at night...you will forget about eating anything from those carts. They rest around 11 and 12th avenues in a nasty warehouse full of rodents....big ones.

[@Neville60001]

This is why the city government oF Toronto tried to create an official Toronto food cart a few years ago.

[@Hockeydad25]

My family and I just did our first NYC trip. I think these are great suggestions however I do have to disagree with one of them… instead of picking one observatory I think you should pick two. One to see the city during the day and the other at night. We did The Edge at Hudson yards as our day observatory and Top of the Rock for the night one. You really need to see the City from both day and night perspectives.

[@Travelwithchris]

Checking the weather is definitely a must in NYC , I made that mistake both times I've visited! 😂 Great video brother!

[@HereBeBarr]

Most definitely!

[@juanone66]

Thank you for pointing out that New Yorkers are almost always willing to help out visitors. We're usually in a hurry (I mean, just look at the place!) but if your question is specific you'll get a quality answer most of the time. If you're ever in a real jam, there's no one you'd rather have around than a New Yorker!

[@tleed6474]

I live in a huge tourist area and have to deal with tourists all summer. I know it is annoying, but I would NEVER give them attitude or be mean or even tell them to hurry up, geesh. They are bringing money into the area, as I am sure tourists are in NY. So, New Yorkers, take a chill pill and maybe smile and laugh it off. You chose, just as I did, to live in a tourist area. Its not the end of the world if someone gets in your way. I am going to Manhattan for the first time ever, and surely hope I am welcomed. The more I see these Videos the more I wonder how my happy my visit will be....

[@hicksi53]

MUST say that my favourite/surprising thing about Manhattan was how NICE the locals were to me (Australian). SO MUCH is said about New Yorkers and their behaviour that I expected to get lost/take a wrong turn/ need help and have to step aside, get out maps, look to the heavens to determine north, and re-orient MYSELF. But often someone would just stop to help. It was amazing and I will be forever thankful.

[@orangecat5036]

Another thing is makeing sure you carry you're medical insurance card and ID card, Cause hospital or clinic heaven for bid, you need to-go inside they won't even be bothered with you if you don't have that information on you.

[@themi6sportsnetwork171]

The biggest mistake is not taking public transit over Uber, Lyft, or taxi because NYC has such a good transit system. I would say this mistake applies to other large cities such as Chicago, SF, and Boston.

[@vailewalders1395]

Bathrooms go to the bathroom before you leave home, we were at a fancy restaurant in the Sea Port area on the water, I went to the ladies room, locked the door to the stall and then it wouldn't open I couldn't get out, I called my boyfriend, my boyfriend and a guy manager came in the ladies room the manager announced for ladies to get out they couldn't get the door open, then maintenance guys had to take the door off, I was stuck in there about an hour LOL, subway my boyfriend is real good on the subway knows his way around but one time we went the wrong way at his direction no big deal though, another time don't jump out at the 11th hour just as the doors are closing, my boyfriend jumped out I was right behind him but dropped my tote bag I went to pick it up the doors closed and off we went, I don't know my way around on the subway at all, I got out at the next stop but simply going the opposite direction on the NYC subway isn't always the the correct thing to do, so I had to go to street level and get a cab, rooftops one 4th of July went to a rooftop club in Chinatown, people were right up against the railing however we weren't so we couldn't see the fireworks but still had fun with all the drinks I think they were included with our admission fee, Times Square entrepreneurs, a guy had a gigantic snake I wanted to hold it, I had never held a snake, I gave him $5.00 I didn't look at it as a rip off, food trucks we walked past a huge line at Halal Guys I had heard so much about it but we didn't eat there, when I got home we have a Halal Guys restaurant where I live I didn't like it

[@triste1517]

I went to the Star Wars Expo parked my car on the street near Little Island came back to find a $95 parking ticket ‼️🤦‍♀️ Ppl really need to be careful about those characters when taken a picture. There was a Hello Kitty there and I asked her for a picture. As we were taking the all of a sudden a bunch of other characters jumped in the picture. Went to tip Hello Kitty & turns out all the ones that jumped in also wanted a tip‼️‼️‼️‼️ One actually told me well we also got in the picture‼️ I said * YES, YOU GUYS DECIDED TO JUMP IN. I ONLY ASKED FOR HELLO KITTY"‼️‼️‼️

[@jorgeperalta6581]

On my first trip to NYC, I wanted to order some pizza but wasn’t sure about which type of pizza. I was holding up the line for about 30-45 seconds and the pizza clerk told me to “get back in line when I’m ready to order because we have other people in line.” I understood and learned from it.

[@HereBeBarr]

It's nothing personal.

[@jorgeperalta6581]

Didn’t take it personally but understood that this is a fast paced city and we to be ready. I love NYC, can’t wait to go back.

[@johnmshaw49]

Hahaha.

[@maril1379]

Things move fast here. Yes that's normal. Best to know what you want to order.

[@TheSanityMachine33]

"No pizza for you!!!" Seinfeld style.... ;) like the soup N*zi episode!

[@simonmhamdi2955]

one more mistake that i bought the ticket for the red bus to visit all downtown Manhattan from the Africain guys in the street and they scammed for 100 dollars and the never mention that the red bus will stop arround 6 pm the guy was from ghana Africa .be carful try to buy your ticket for the tour online.

[@Escafranc]

Hi, I'm planning my first visit to NYC with my family and I'm really enjoying your videos and tips, which really help me! By the way, I have a question ... don't judge me, but I'm a smoker and my husband too. We know the New York smoking ban policy and we wanna be respectful and maybe smoke less when we'll come there. So where is smoking allowed cigarette or tobacco? Can you have any advice on this? Thanks

[@thomasbell7033]

I'm a smoker and live here. Not indoors anywhere but your own home, pretty much. Not in the parks, either. Best advice, look for another smoker and join them. If you are outdoors, minding your own business, smoking, and someone flaps their hands like a seal and wrinkles their nose at you, tell them to F off. Still lots of smokers here. Cigs are $16 a pack, so bring plenty, if you haven't already learned the hard way. It's how they punish us.

[@globey1]

8:50 my dad got a £50 fine because he used a bus lane in edinburgh he didnt know it was a bus lane untill he was fined

[@elcaliandres]

bro I pee a lot during the day, I’ll be 5 days in New York for the first time, I heard you saying to use the restroom before getting out of a restaurant, but where else can I use the bathroom? any public restrooms around? i am from Fl , here you have thousand of restrooms anywhere

[@HereBeBarr]

Hotels. Bars. Bryant park. Restaurants Starbucks

[@AmbroseChamberpot]

hospitals, museums, libraries, 9th ave sewer grates

[@BxBabyDoll]

Grand Central Terminal, any department store...

[@gabbym2000]

One of the biggest mistakes I made as a tourist in NYC was telling the taxi driver I wasn’t from NYC and was in fact a tourist. At first, he came off as very friendly and polite, but that quickly changed once the ride was over. I didn’t have cash on me, so when I went to pay with my card, I clicked the card paying option and all of the sudden he was demanding I pay in cash and that I had apparently clicked the cash paying option, which I certainly did not. My sister was there as a witness. After arguing with me for a few minutes, he forced me take out money from an ATM at a nearby convenience store after threatening to call the police. Moral of the story is: always carry cash on you when riding a taxi and don’t let them know you’re a tourist. I ended up taking Lyfts and Ubers the rest of the trip when I wasn’t walking. 😅

[@datguySC2]

that my friend is why cabs are going out of business

[@Stonecoldalston]

Rule never when when visiting any city never let them know you’re a tourist people will try to get over on you especially in a as city like New York

[@bkNEWYAWK]

No, you definitely could've paid with your card. It's just that the processing fees would come out of his pocket. You should've taken him up on the offer to call the cops. The cop would've sided with you.

[@CGSevenxPhoto]

That's called bullying smh and it's scary. No regular taxes for me.

[@chuckielong1]

Aii for all tourist who plan on driving in the city, dont lmfao but all joking aside if u do wanna drive then be aggressive or u aint gonna get nowhere and people r just gonna cut u. Parking can be confusing but there's an app that can help download spot angel it'll give u all street that has free parking so u dont even have to pay a dime most of the time. Important note that I think he forgot lmfao dont make eye contact or stare too long at crackhead please, ur gonna attract them to u lmfao just look real quick to check sht out and make sure ur good and move on. Weather wise its brick in the weather, if it says it cold dress warm don't try to be fancy and wear something that look nice but aint gonna keep u warm, same with boots it get real nasty with the snow.

[@aeve94]

Rule 4 just reminded me of my most frequent frustration. I already hated it whenever people stopped in the middle of the street even before I came to new york. Now I've been guilty of displaying the famous stereotypical "attitude" nyers have whenever someone gets in their way. Especially when ur trying to get in/out of a train, and someone stops right at the door. I mean I understand, ur lost and don't know what to do, but PLEASE STEP ASIDE while you try to figure it out

[@HereBeBarr]

Took me a little while to get that "attitude" but even I have it now.

[@TaylorJaneK]

Most people in America do step away in airports, so idk why they do it in way busier places

[@williamstrother6027]

New York is a great city

[@kevinhealey6540]

You have to be careful about booking a hotel there. You might try going through a travel agent. It either costs nothing or a modest fee. But I believe you can avoid off the wall hotels. It's not required by the hotel to inform potential guests that the hotel houses homeless. Before you book with a hotel, look up on the internet for a rating, that might explain it. And you can even call the hotel or email them asking if they rent to homeless. 20% of hotels in NYC rent to homeless. If you go there, try to look like a New Yorker and not a tourist. When someone comes up to you and wants to start a conversation, get away from the person. It could be anywhere from a pick pocket to a scammer. That rule should be applied most other tourist destinations as well. You can see an aircraft carrier there and go inside it as well as a sub. When you go on the subway stay away the platform near the tracks, just to stay on the safe side. Insane people have pushed people onto the tracks.

[@alexandermaurizio3937]

The biggest mistake tourists make is to go to NYC. I am sure that you have open cesspools at home that you can enjoy and think of the money you will save. That is provided that you don't get pushed in front of a subway train and do get to go back home.

[@BxBabyDoll]

Bathroom tip is good, but if you're caught out there and you're near a department store, go for it. We were near Rock Center and we all had to go, so we went into Saks. Not only did we use one of the nicest restrooms in a dept. store that I've ever seen, we got to see all the fabulous things we could not afford🤣

[@federicosonnino7912]

With all due respect, It's stretched to say that riding a Bike is difficult in NYC. Come to Rome and you will experience the real struggle.

[@si06civic86]

I was drunk one time and ended up taking an express train to Brooklyn 🤦‍♂️. Now I always make sure its local.

[@HereBeBarr]

Well at least you had a good excuse

[@mentonerodominicano]

I was in NYC last September and avoided the Observation decks because I did not want to get into long lines. I almost did get the train in the wrong direction once and this seems to be more common on the tiny stations with old confusing signage.

[@grazz7865]

The observation deck at Hudson yards -I think it’s called the point? There is such a long line, they give you about 9 seconds to take your picture and move out for the next person.

[@orangecat5036]

Don't forget pee and poo before you ride the subway cause there's no bathrooms any where unless you make it to Macy's on 34th st. New york is very cheap with the restrooms.

[@cyrusmallison6157]

📀Only buy a CD if you approach the band first, never buy one from some guy waving it on a sidewalk.

[@alisonthorn2573]

Terrific video. I drive in all the time and always use a parking garage. One time I needed to make a pit stop, 20 minutes or so. Parked on the street and refused to use the kiosk to pay. I left, came back 45 minutes later and some fabulous New Yorker had paid for me and left slip under my wiper blade. Can you believe it? New Yorkers are the best! (This was two weeks ago too!)

[@HereBeBarr]

Wow, that's amazing!

[@peterwelby]

@@HereBeBarr Multiple robberies and stabbings on the subway yesterday

[@chuckh4077]

@@peterwelby where are the ninja turtles??? ( not the lame CGI Turtles)They are still stuck back in time. Hope they return soon to deal with the rising crime rate.

[@peterwelby]

@@chuckh4077 I don't know but the guy who got mugged and stabbed at and 168th st could have used some help. Is this a joke to you?

[@chuckh4077]

@@peterwelby that's what the city needs. Ninja turtles beating up bad guys so innocent people don't get hurt. Simple

[@shahjehan]

The actual arrogance of New Yorkers to feel inconvenienced by tourists deciding what to eat, where to go or how to get here. If we stopped visiting and spending our money there, your precious city economy would feel it. 😂

[@tek87]

Honestly, that's annoying anywhere. If the menu is posted above the register, there is no excuse for getting in line without knowing what you want.

[@PV-pu5iu]

My goodness. Attitude, dude.

[@mariyahsmith1539]

The New Yorker helping you out is 100% true even if you don’t ask I was there just this past week and just me thinking out loud provided me with great help just about anyone there is willing to help with directions don’t be scared to speak up they are listening 👂

[@roselol7398]

My dumb tourist mistake was accepting a CD from someone because I’m too nice. Regretted it immediately

[@mr_hands]

id love to visit new york one day much love from england 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿❤️

[@insertnamehere5146]

my daughter had the same dream. she is there with her boyfriend at the moment. They are both from the UK like you. it might be a big disappointment for you. the food is good but there are addicts everywhere and whole place stinks of cannabis.

[@georgiasmith7615]

I never felt the need to visit an observation desk. I usually stay at a hotel in Williamsburg Brooklyn. I just look out my hotel window for a great view of Manhattan. I think people should think about staying in a hotel outside of Midtown Manhattan to get a view of how real New Yorkers live!

[@HereBeBarr]

That's an interesting point, stay on a high floor at hotel with a view. Skip the observation deck.

[@barbarany69]

Always get a yellow cab from the airports. The "others" might be cheap but not insured. You ride at your own risk. and yes leave a tip!

[@catchermom4090]

I know you’ll laugh. Most people do. While in NYC, at the corners, is a sign that says ‘no standing’. We thought you couldn’t just stand at the corner to look at a map or just look around or whatever. So I asked someone why that was. Yep. You can start laughing.

[@valkhorn]

My tip is if you can, get an unlimited 7 day pass for the metro instead of just a regular metro card. You wouldn't believe how quickly your $20 card will run out of money if you don't have an unlimited one, and running out of funds when the subway is busy is really annoying to everyone else because you have to swipe once or twice to realize what's going on, THEN go back to add more money. And trust me, not all metro card kiosks are functional and will easily allow you to recharge your card ESP if you're in a hurry. Lots of people were using the OMNY cards and I didn't try it out, but it looked extremely effortless and I will likely try that instead the next time I'm there.

[@abbyleung8286]

Not just in New York city, in any other major cities in the world people are the same, everyone is too busy and have stuff to do

[@peterjaro6804]

The last one is SOOO true! People say Paris and Rome are nightmares to use a car in, but NOTHING is worse than NYC, especially Manhattan. Everyone drives with a kind of perseived entitlement, as in ' I live here; I can do what I like driving ' or ' I'm a Taxi so MOVE OVER ' not to mention the money making 'machine' of parking- and traffic fines/tickets. Everywere else in the States (including LA, DC and Chicago) a car is good to have, if not essential... but in NY I use the Subway, the Hudson River Transports and taxies. Not always convenient but WAY better than driving and parking yourself.

[@captainphoenix]

So the car thing needs to be expanded upon. THERE IS NO STREET PARKING IN Manhattan, or, at least, that's how you should treat it. I may have found on-street parking _once_ in all my years of driving into NYC. And, FYI, the parking garages are insanely expensive (bank on at least $100 a night), and, very often, if you don't get there early enough, they'll fill up. There are also ZERO gas stations in Manhattan, the traffic is perpetually brutal, roadwork is everywhere and non-stop, and the cabbies are _insane_ . Couple all that with the fact that NYC is probably the one place in all of North America where the mass transit is genuinely convenient and easy on-and-off, and you get to a point where the conclusion is a very straight-forward *DO NOT BRING/RENT/GET A CAR/DRIVE IN MANHATTAN IF YOU ARE VISITING NYC*

[@spoonie821]

As a Londoner who visited New York (just Yesterday as of from this post) I do have to say the city is AMAZING 😍 I am glad to say that I only did 2 of the things that you said to avoid to 1 of which is Central Park we spent 2 hrs in Central Park but we did want to do other things 2 was misreading the Subway but I must say that is probably the only gripe I've got with NY. The public transport either partial informal or just isn't informal non whatsoever (tho I never did use the bus so I cannot speak for that) but go to any London Underground & you will know not just your line (or be reassured that this line will call at your stop) but also if there are any lines ideal for you to transfer in order to reach your destination. Not only that but I wish that for the sake tourist's there was any way to say if this is a stop that is nearby a landmark for example if you were at London Underground & you wanted to get off at Hyde Park or Buckingham Palace the train via an automated PA or on map will say "this is Green Park alight here for Hyde Park or Buckingham Palace " other than that the Subway was ok to use but one I can't stand is NTransit (NJ Transit?🤷‍♂️) but you really need to be more forthcoming with the info on your trains dude we only used it twice (from & to the airport) but using your train system was hella confusing. But hey I do plan to go again New York is one hell of a city & the fact that the city is mapped like a grid it's really easy to find your way around, put bluntly 7th ave = Times Square 6th ave = financial district & 5th ave = is shops galore! Anyways I'll keep this video in for when I next go. CHEERS!!!!!! 😁

[@chevychase]

I love NYC but it is a very difficult city for handicapped persons. Most restaurants do not have restrooms that can be accessed without going down very steep steps. And the subway system is not accessible without walking down very crowded stairs also. There are not enough restrooms anywhere; I always have to wait in a long, long, long line to get into a restroom, and that can be a serious problem.

[@Neville60001]

Canadian guy from Toronto (considered to be like New York but of Canada) here: many of these tips are the same for visiting Toronto as well, particularly the one about using public transit.

[@susie9893]

Yes, I think for a lot of major cities. It's the same here in Sydney (and I think a lot of tourists think that cos Australia has the reputation of being laid back that Sydney will be slow paced. Nup)

[@georgefoord475]

going to the toilet is key, there is none in nyc and coming from the uk it was a shock not see any public toilets

[@HereBeBarr]

yes, it's annoying.

[@chuckh4077]

Just go into the alley and take a leak behind the dumpster. Take care you don't piss on a bm sleeping behind the dumpster. 😄

[@AmbroseChamberpot]

@@chuckh4077 only problem is that there's only like 4 alleyways in all of Manhattan

[@chuckh4077]

@@AmbroseChamberpot not according to the movies. Alleys everywhere in NYC

[@annek1226]

Do not stop in the middle of a busy sidewalk either! Tourists do this all the time!! That is a no no!!

[@richgrealish]

Great tips John and things that everyone, not just tourists must follow. Must admit they're pretty much tips for absolutely anywhere in the world regardless of how big or small the city.

[@har8397]

Ground breaking inside info.... this guy is telling you to pee and check your train? I need this guidance every where in my life

[@frolege1]

Tip: before buying water from vendor FIRST ask the price. I see people get a bottle and open it and the vendor charge double the actual price.

[@SerErryk]

Take a swig and give it back.

[@russellgutmann7960]

Tipping is fine, but I went to pull out a $5 from my wallet to tip a performer and they grabbed all the cash I had. So avoid them anyways or have tip money divided in hand already

[@LSCBTHEWAVY]

Nah out in jersey and nyc U BETTER CHECK THAT WEATHER BEFORE U GO ANYWHERE

[@dovrose5155]

Don't engage with these guys in character uniforms

[@renaudgisselbrecht7603]

I’ m french and i’ m preparing my first trip to NY with your advices ! Thank you john !

[@chuckh4077]

Mistakes I made while visiting NYC #1 looking for the ninja turtles in the sewer. #2 asking a local: How do you get to Carnegie Hall? #3 asking a local to mug me in Central Park #4 asking how everyone was coping after the attack on NYC from Thanos. List goes on. 😆

[@orangecat5036]

Another mistake people do is they don't know MTA Buses go across town, so they don't necessarily need a taxi or uber's to get from the Eastside of Manhattan or the westside of Manhattan or vice versa.

[@edgarrosher3475]

Yes step tf away from the steps let people go , new Yorkers like to move fast 🗽💯 you will get confronted by blocking or walking too slow on the streets

[@tiamarrow6366]

Honestly I’m a local NYer and I’ve even made some of these mistakes a few times…..but that’s probably because I don’t come to the city very often.

[@HereBeBarr]

Heck I took the wrong train last week. We ALL can make some of these.

[@old.not.too.grumpy.]

These apply to most major cities in the world. All defiantly apply to London 😂😂

[@johnmshaw49]

I'm from Texas. We do not buy food from people on the street

[@mrreese2342]

I know you're a newyorker but you seem a little too afraid and too considerate about people's time and feelings, if someone is a tourist he's a tourist of course he'll make some mistakes and that's the charm of it

[@TripHacksDC]

This video is gold. If you ride enough you will eventually take the train the wrong direction (don't ask how I know) 🙃

[@HereBeBarr]

hahha happens to the best of us

[@anncalisi2062]

I went to NYC in September 2023. It was basically disappointing, I saw a lot of homeless, drug addicts . Dirty streets etc.. 10 years ago honestly I didn’t see all of that.

[@MrThe1234guy]

Use the bathroom check the weather. OK this guy doesn't sound very helpful book so far

[@MickAngelhere]

When in the subway, tube or using escalators find out which side of the escalators you need to stand on , for the London Tube you need to stand on the right , Sydney it’s on the left. If from a country town where the bus stop is on the road don’t assume it’s the same in a big city , saw a couple of tourists from a small country town nearly get cleaned up by a bus because they stepped onto the road in front of I as it was pulling up to the stop. The driver gave them an earful and asked them why the hell they did that? Their reply was Oh we come from such and such place in South Australia where we stand on the road for the bus , The driver told them that in Sydney on busy main road that’s what one does. Being a tourist doesn’t mean that one leaves your brain at home, bring it with you to wherever you are going , because you are going to need it

[@missnellie1023]

Oh please…one suggestion if you are a tourist and don’t want to scream same…no pure white sneakers with loads is team attire.

[@agustindejesus7398]

Not checking hourly forecast is not necessarily. It does not snow in summer. It can rain at any time in any country in the world, not only in New York.

[@NotoriousMAN1]

6:05 Me and my parents had a picture taken with Micky Mouse in Times Square and my parents did not tip, now I am an orphane.

[@chandlerbingbong]

Big stores like Macey's, Bloomingdales etc are always handy for the loo

[@Kevin-yh9yt]

Do NOT stop on busy street corners and have a conference on which direction you should go,...all while staring down at your phones to figure it all out! Move out of the way of people....and also just ASK someone if you know your exact destination but are just not sure which direction it is in.

[@manolokonosko2868]

If you visit NY and plan to drive there, do some research and find a parking lot for the time you will be in town. Leave the car parked in a lot in Queens or in a safe neighborhood where it's free. Do not drive into Manhattan. Use public transportation. Not only will a subway get you to your destination faster and without a hassle, you will also not waste your vacation time looking for parking or paying through the nose for s spot or risking at least a $100 fine.

[@garypavlick5825]

I made a mistake. That's for sure! I jumped into a New York city cab. It was a 1970 Coronet. How the hell can I get back.

[@theblueflame7592]

The biggest mistake tourists make is to bring their loved ones to this open cesspool.

[@Blackhole48]

2:57 a rule not only for the subway...if you have to stop...don't just Stop go to the side or enjoy the bumbs you get ;)

[@HereBeBarr]

Actually yes, anywhere :)

[@edvaira6891]

Ok, Jon, just curious….Did you help out poor Ben with cost of the parking tickets (honestly, I’m surprised it was only $100…it’s about $250 here in San Diego!)

[@HereBeBarr]

I assisted here since we were together and I missed it. But for Manhattan videos he doesn’t drive anymore

[@jazmine6904]

So it’s okay to take pictures with characters as long as you leave a tip?

[@SunshineTwilight]

When I go into the city it is strictly for pleasure so I do not drive and ruin my mood lol. I take the train across NJ to Hoboken and then the Ferry to Pier 11. I mostly hang out downtown and will walk to midtown once in a while. If going uptown from there I will take the subway. It's about doing what is least aggravating.

[@danmacdonald3565]

Do you have a video about what street vendor items are worth buying? I’ve purchased gloves and scarfs that I still use 10 years later but is there junk to avoid? And what’s the deal with the electronics shops? Are they just selling junk?

[@Totes_ma_Goat]

I just got back from NYC. I live in Atlanta in the city and thought I was a good city driver. Don't do it! It was raining and at night when I decided to go to Manhattan, The dashes in the roads to help you know which lane you're in don't exist. I white knuckled it the whole time. Even if you live in a big city, I'd highly recommend taking public transportation in Manhattan. Also, parking decks START at $40-$80 a hour.

[@f.d.6667]

Watching tourist-cyclist "interactions" is my favorite activity: *two obnoxious species trying to eliminate each other* is probably the best free entertainment when visiting NYC!

[@HereBeBarr]

🤣

[@naomiferreira8255]

NY subway system is confusing. Weekends are the worst. I also have made the mistake of getting on the train and going in the wrong direction. I have helped tourists figure out Uptown (Queens) and Downtown (Brooklyn) trains.

[@vinyalonde]

I am visiting New York City in mid March and your videos are extremely helpful - thanks. For what it is worth, I remember hearing my parents and their friends talking about visiting NYC in the sixties and their comment about cabbies was that it was always best to give the driver an intersection rather than an actual address.

[@rickyc2651]

How was your trip? I’m going next week alone and I’m nervous but excited lol

[@vinyalonde]

@@rickyc2651 It was a good trip. I loved it. I never felt that I was at risk or in danger. Yes, there were some rough patches, and as in any big city, I try to be aware of who and what is around me. I got approached a few times on the subway by people asking for money. I just said no and they moved on. I hope you have a great time!

[@rickyc2651]

@@vinyalonde thank you so much and I’m glad it was good for you! That was one thing that kind of made me nervous was I didn’t want anyone to bother me or try to hustle me for anything but I guess that can be expected in a big city. I just hope they’ll move along as well lol.

[@vinyalonde]

@@rickyc2651 You will have a great time. I got approached twice in 10 days. I had more people offering to help me to be honest. There are some very kind people in NYC.

[@UnseenVoices]

Missed your NYC videos! Great one 🙌

[@HereBeBarr]

Thanks Tasos!!