New York City Travel Tips

1. It doesn’t just smell like pee; it is pee. Watch your step.

2. When shopping for an authentic Rolex in Battery Park, don’t pay more than $20 (see previous post).

3. If you are going to a Yankees game and want to tour the museum, arrive a couple hours early. The lines are long and things close before the start of the game. (Below pic: Husband, Jason and Brother, Mike)

4. Wear comfortable shoes, bring an umbrella, drink plenty of water (tap water ok), and if you can’t read a map, don’t be afraid to ask for directions. New Yorkers love to give directions (read: sarcasm).

5. Speaking of directions and maps, the Metropolitan Museum can be tough to navigate. When asking a docent for directions, ask him or her to walk you there if they can. It took us at least 30 minutes to find the rooftop. (Below pic: Me and my sister, Jen)

6. Visit Coney Island, but skip the hot dog. Corn dogs are where it’s at. (Below pic: Jason looking forward to a dog)

7. One more thing about Coney Island. When visiting the magic machines, don’t ask “to be big.” Tom Hanks had trouble with that one. (Below pic: Jen asking grandma about her future)

8. David Letterman tickets may be hard to get, but Jimmy Fallon tickets are a breeze to get. Always call several weeks ahead, if you can. We lucked out and got tix to Letterman, which proves it’s not impossible. Just know that Fallon is a good back up. (Below pic: That’s Mike again)

9. If you are out enjoying the sights and need a restroom, find a Starbucks. They’re everywhere and usually have a public restroom. If that fails, access SitOrSquat.com from your phone.

10. Don’t overlook Brooklyn. The Manhattan views are great, the food dynamite, and the parks world class. Prospect Park even has waterfalls and paddle boats (illustrated by Jason in this pic here).

BONUS NYC TRAVEL TIP: Notice the pigeons crowding on the sidewalk before you. As you approach they will scatter and fly all about. Close your mouth to be safe. I recently had a pigeon poop on my face.