Transportation in New York City
New York is best explored
on foot. Travelers really don't need a car when visiting
New York - even those travelers heading to Long Island or
other surrounding neighborhoods. Extensive public transportation
makes it convenient to travel between areas of interest.
Driving in the city can be hazardous to your health, especially
if you're inexperienced at it. There's no such thing as
defensive driving here. It's more about survival of the
fittest and the fittest are usually cab drivers. Also, there's
basically no such thing as free parking. Parking in most
garages costs up to $20 (for three hours). It's ridiculous.
The subway system is one of
the most comprehensive around. Stretching 714 miles long,
it's the fastest way to get anywhere in the city and the
outer boroughs (including the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens),
and it runs 24 hours a day. Tokens are a mere $1.50, with
reduced fares for people with disabilities and for senior
citizens. For travelers on an extended trip, MetroCards,
purchased for a specific amount, are also available at all
subway stations.
Everyone has heard the
horror stories about New York taxis. However scary they
might be, they are very convenient. You can hail a cab at
nearly every corner - even at night. The fare is $2 for
the first 1/5-mile, 30¢ for each 1/5-mile thereafter,
and 25¢ for each 75 seconds not in motion. A 50¢
surcharge is added to rides begun between 8 pm and 6 am.
Bridge and tunnel tolls are extra, and drivers expect a
15% tip.
