Thanks. I want to do a bit of everything really - shopping, sight seeing, museums etc. Vague question, but how much are taxis and subways? someone told me the subways were not nice when they went (a couple of years ago i think) - is that still the case?
The subway is 100 years old. It smells bad, and most downtown stations are clean, but others are quite dirty. Still, if you can't afford to tip, you can't afford to go out. That' s the attitiude of New Yorkers. So, if money is a concern, let me assure you you need to ride the subway. Cabs are very costly. A cab from Times Square to Chinatown will be $12-16 plus 10% or $1 tip. A subway ride? $2. The subway is safe, well lit, and full of people 24/7. Who is you cab driver? Do you know him? Well you're alone with him. I'm just sayin'.
Tip bartenders $1/drink in bars and clubs. Tip barbers, massage therapists, and waitstaff 15-20%. Of course, if you receive poor service, do not tip (or reduce your tip). Also, check your bill to be sure a gratuity has not already been included.
While you're here, besure to eat Pizza. The best Pizza is in BROOKLYN. But, if you're afraid to go to the outer borroughs, There is truly excellent
Pizza in the East Village by
St. Mark's Place. While you're down by St. Mark's, be sure to spin the
Cube. You'll see it. Accross the street from Cooper Union and the 6 train (Astor Place Station). Beware, you can be ticketed for misdemeanor mayhem ( I shit you not.). It's not likely, but technically, it can happen. Also, it's rude to spin the cube if someone is sleeping under it.
I usually tell people to visit one of our awesome zoos, but that's not much fun in January. Instead, go to the
Aquarium. It's on
Coney Island. Be back on the train before dark. The last time I was down there, the neighborhood around the Aquarium wasn't great, and tourists clearly stand out as tourists here. Do a web search to find out what time they feed the sharks. I think it's 3PM.
Eat dessert at
Serendipity. It's expensive, but something to do once before you die. Do NOT go on the weekend. In fact, if they take reservations, make one. They are famous for Frozen Hot Chocolate. If you buy one, you'll know why. Prepare for a long wait and sticker shock.
Do a
historical tour of
Harlem.
Are you religious? Whatever your faith, you can find a worship center with historical roots somewhere in the city. New York is a very old city. It was once the nation's capital. I'm sure you can find a church, temple or mosque ten days older than dirt to suit your needs.
When you respond to this thread, please include the dates you plan to travel. It's much easier to guide you with that information. The city always has something free happening.
I also suggest you buy a copy of Time Out NY the week before your visit, as well as the week of your visit.
Want to see a Broadway show, but can't spend much money? There's a play called
Perfect Crime that is just off-broadway. If you go to the TKTS kiosk in Times Square the ticket is only $25, and because ity isn't a musical, you won't have to wait on the long lines at the kiosk. Just go straight to the front, and look for the line for the non-musical plays. There won't be more than 10 people on it.
The best karaoke is in Gay bars. It's usually free. In Japanese restaurants and bars, it can be $1-2/song.
Have a nice visit.