Planning notes for New York

New York City, located on the Atlantic coast of the United States, was established as a Dutch trading post in 1624. The city's historical heritage is characterized by its five boroughs—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island—which were consolidated in 1898. The architecture of the city includes a variety of styles, such as the Art Deco designs of the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building, both completed in the early 1930s. The neo-Gothic St. Patrick’s Cathedral, finished in 1879.

Must-try foods nearby

• New York Style Pizza Slice
  The quintessential NYC staple characterized by a large, thin, hand-tossed crust that is crispy yet pliable enough to be folded in half.
• Everything Bagel with Lox and Schmear
  A dense, chewy, malt-boiled bagel coated in 'everything' seasoning (salt, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried onion, and garlic).
• Pastrami on Rye
  An iconic Jewish deli classic consisting of navel-cut beef brisket that has been cured in brine, seasoned with a rub of black pepper and coriander, smoked.
• The Chopped Cheese
  Originating in Harlem and Bronx bodegas, this cult-favorite sandwich features ground beef, onions, and melted American cheese all chopped together on a flat-top grill.
• Bacon, Egg, and Cheese (BEC) on a Roll
  The definitive New York breakfast. This sandwich consists of fried eggs, crispy bacon, and melted American cheese served on a soft, buttered Kaiser roll.

When to go: The best time to visit New York is during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October.

Local tips

• Walk to the right on sidewalks and escalators, and always step to the side if you need to stop to check a map or take a photo.
• Use the OMNY contactless system to pay for the subway with your phone or credit card, and always let passengers exit the train before you board.
• Expect to tip 18-22% at sit-down restaurants, as service workers rely on tips for their income, and double-check your bill to see if a service charge is already included.
• Avoid entering empty subway cars on an otherwise crowded train, as they usually lack air conditioning or have an unpleasant odor.

What travelers are noticing

• Savory breakfast bowls and protein-infused coffee (mushroom and fiber-focused morning foods)
• Monday Diner: A new all-day concept by pastry chef Caroline Schiff featuring blintzes with lox and signature desserts
• RYE by MARTIN AUER: The first U.S. location of the Austrian bakery specializing in 100% rye sourdough and 'On Rye' open-faced sandwiches

Extra place context

• Golden Diner
  A trendy Chinatown spot that fuses classic NYC diner vibes with Korean and Japanese influences. Their honey butter pancakes and lemongrass avocado toast have made it a favorite for locals and critics alike.
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• Thai Diner
  A high-energy Nolita destination serving inventive Thai-American fusion. The Thai tea French toast and stuffed cabbage are standout morning dishes in a kitschy, vibrant setting.
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