Always gives the best tips on what to see and how to see it safely, need to watch those scammers, been a little over 40 years since I have been in New York, would love to see it one more time. RIP to Ben, may he always rest in peace.
Hey John. I'm a city kid (Philly) and I want to see if you could talk about "situational awareness" in NYC. It happens in any city, but people who walk as a group in a side-by-side line. This blocks the sidewalk and the cross-walks. If you need to stop and talk or look at your phones, put your back to a building wall and do your thing. I'm of the school of telling people to "keep on movin', keep on walking cause your blocking the way". I'm only 5ft, but a teacher, so I can make people move! I'm not rude, I'm efficient.
Superb video content, thanks so much! Title is different than what I expected in the video, glad this auto played. Thanks again, I plan on touring NY and this is perfect!
I’ve been watching your channel since 2020, getting ready to move to nyc next fall! Love you, Ben, and Adriana!! Peace and comfort your way! Rest in peace Ben the camera guy:(
I go to broadway a lot and I live in Hell's Kitchen but I really think that people could have a much richer NYC experience if they stay in a different area, be that that the UWS, Williamsburg, the Lower East Side or Chelsea. Focus on local galleries, some of the smaller museums , restaurants that are popular with locals, get connected with real NYC life. Nothing wrong with strolling through Times Square after a show. Also for some reason a lot of visitors don't know about the High Line! But for sure walk the High Line, go to some galleries, do a little shopping and eating drinking in Meatpacking or the West Village. Also read about the shows before you get to the TKTS booth!
A lot of the Upper Manhattan stations have those vaulted ceilings, stinky elevators and cross-over bridges that are nice. That being said, just recently a woman ran over to us freaking out. She had been leaning against the wall at the 1 station at 181st and realized there was a swarm of waterbugs next to her. She was hysterical thinking they had gotten in her hair and on her backpack. She calmed down after we checking her out thoroughly. I can't even imagine how she didn't just lose her mind completely. I sure would have.
Hi John, my husband and I recently returned from our first visit to NYC. I watched many of your videos prior to going and I have to say a big thank you! We were visiting from rural Alabama, culture shock is an understatement lol. At first I would say, the videos say do this or don’t do that to which my husband would roll his eyes. However by our second day he was asking me what did the videos say about this lol We did many tourist things but so much more we didn’t have time for. Definitely want to go back soon and most definitely will watch/rewatch your content. Keep up the good work and thanks again!! Also… RIP Ben😢
Me who's lived in a seedy place all my life: if someone's stops to talk to you in public, they're probably 5% nice, 30% going to scam you, 60% straight up stealing your stuff right now, and 5% you are going to die.
This is nice Jon! Here we get the Full Monty about how to keep safe and avoid being scammed. This is even good for returning NY'ers Who were born in NYC, but have moved to other states, like me. Keeps us fresh and up to date. 🖖👍
Rolled laughing at the mention of Olive Garden! lol No idea that Manhattan even had an Olive Garden. Agree that Restaurant Row is the nearest go-to for peeps who insist of staying in Times Sq. Informative video. Nicely done.
Thank you for all of your amazing videos. I can’t wait to go back to New York again it’s been a while. It’s actually been way too long. All of your information will be so very helpful. I’ve shared it with a friend of mine. Who’s planning a trip as well. I’m so sorry to hear about Ben. Thinking of you all. Peace, Suzie from Baltimore.
I made the mistake of wearing slip on sandals to tour San Francisco. That place is nasty! Going potty and using drugs are freely done in public. It’s disgusting what’s going on there.
Jon - Your videos are wonderful and makes me feel a little bit better about visiting New York for the first time in a couple of weeks. My hubs is going for a conference so of course we're staying in Times Square and I will be exploring a few days by myself. I grew up in San Francisco but have lived in the burbs for way too long to feel comfortable by myself. Your videos will be very helpful.
I'm in Lisbon Portugal for World Youth Day and I'm including Ben (for his eternal repose) Ben's Family and you (for comfort) at the final Mass this Sunday.
I remember I got a CD from when I visited New York City for the first time. I loved it too and they were blasting the music out of their truck and he autographed it. I wish I still had it.
When I was there last weekend, I made note of the street food vendors and their lack of prices listed. I got that tip from you before a previous video. I noticed maybe 1 out of 10 had prices.
I def made sure to remember this after paying like 6 bucks for a hotdog! And ive lived here i assumed itd be like 4 as it usually was in the area, felt like such a dummy 😅
I’d like to add to the “watch where you’re going” point because you reminded me of something. The second time I ever visited New York was the first time I ever used the subway system without a native New Yorker guiding the way. I took the subway from JFK to midtown. When I finally reached our stop, I was one of the first people to get off my subway car. Luckily I was staring at the ground when I walked off (introvert here, lol). There was a good 6-7 inches between the car and the platform. It was enough for me to do a slight hop when I stepped off. I lived in SF at the time & never saw that coming. I 100% know I would have done a face-plant if I wasn’t watching.
Revisiting this video and wanted to add...at about 46min you mentioned mentioned going on a daytrip to Philadelphia. So many of us from Philly, South Jersey and Northern DE (Wilmington) do this trip in reverse. When I can, I take a day trip to see a Broadway Matinee, go to Brooklyn, Manhattan, etc. I recommend a China Town bus (Philly), Bolt Bus, or Amtrak (direct to Moynahan - Penn Station). Cheaper is transferring from Septa to NJT to Penn Station (not Newark - Penn Station). Not going to lie, it'll be a tiring day, but it's worth it.
I just do not understand how people can think that there are no supermarkets in NYC. There are over 8 million people living here, do you seriously think none of them buy groceries ????
My fiancé got us tickets for Betelgeuse in December before they stopped the show on Broadway, and we drove in with his brother and his wife. I told them we needed to leave in the early morning if they wanted to go to Bryant Park for holiday festivities and shopping, but we didn’t arrive until around 5pm when our show was at 8:30. They all acted surprised that Times Square was as packed as it was even though I told them of my previous experiences going to TS in the past during the holidays. It wasn’t a ruined trip, the show was great! BUT if you’re going to the city you should ABSOLUTELY consider travel and anything that could impact your travel (crowds, dining due to crowds) if you want to make the most of your experience.
I’m sorry to hear of your loss. Can you please direct me to how I get a hotel hack for nyc and if it is safe to stay in Chinatown??? Love your videos by the way!!! ❤
As a native New Yorker, there's a shared sentiment among us to steer clear of Times Square as much as possible. While it undoubtedly stands as an iconic symbol of the city, the crowded streets and overwhelming tourist presence can be a bit much for those of us who call the Big Apple home. There's a distinct charm in exploring the lesser-known gems scattered across the five boroughs that showcase the true essence of New York City. Diving into the vibrant neighborhoods like Astoria in Queens for its diverse culinary scene or strolling through the historic streets of Brooklyn's DUMBO with its breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline provides an authentic experience of the city's rich culture. Local markets such as the Arthur Avenue Retail Market in the Bronx, known for its authentic Italian delicacies, offer a more intimate and genuine taste of New York. These off-the-beaten-path destinations unveil the hidden treasures that make the city truly extraordinary, away from the bustling crowds of Times Square. It's about embracing the diverse neighborhoods that define the city and discovering the unique pockets of culture that make New York an unparalleled place to call home.
Riding your bike around Central Park on the bike lanes inside the park is awesome. Going one full time around the park means your in good shape, more than that you're in excellent shape. Just be aware not to run into someone. Sometimes pedestrians will not get out your way.
We love your honest opinion of places and showing them for what they really are. Thank you for all of your hard work. Your videos have opened our eyes as to what to look for. We will watch your next set of videos. Take care.
The bump into you scam was tried on me in Brooklyn. Born and raised in the BK and dude tried pulling that with me. I looked at him and just kept walking.Eff outta here.
3 weeks to go until we're in the Big Apple for 4 weeks! I've been following your videos since we booked the trip in January and you've been a godsend. So many great tips to see and do as well as what to avoid. We feel fairly prepared but as Aussies, we're still a bit concerned about the tipping culture right. I get tipping the servers and service providers, plus drivers but what about the guy who hands over the take out Nonna Maria Pizza slice from Bleecker Street Pizza? On a sadder note, RIP Ben. Condolences to his family, you and Adriana, and all who loved him. x
You don't need to tip drivers if they're bad drivers. Restaurant is 15% suggested, but you tip less is ok. Groups of 6 or more will be automatic 15%, we don't tip takeout food unless it's delivered. If there is a tip jar for takeout, and you feel service was great, then we may tip $1 to $3. Most things, it's up to you if you want to tip or not. Enjoy trip.
I throw a buck in the tip jar for my guys at bleeker and any pizzeria. I worked in a pizzeria for 13 years So I appreciate the work they do. Tip on the pretax amount. I do 15% min on checks and will increase to 20% depending on the service I get. Don't even cab. Do uber/lift/revel or if you confident, take the subways. Google maps is amazing for getting around. I got to nyc weekly and I use Google maps constantly.
@@arfriedman4577 Not quite accurate. Businesses like restaurants and bars in the US unfairly don't pay a living wage and expect customers to supplement the difference for the workers. One definition of tipping is an acronym for "To Insure Promptness or Professionalism". But there are many variables before you receive your meal or drink that the server has no control of. Even if the service is adequate, the workers are depending on the tip for a living wage, not just because of expected awesome service. New York City is an expensive place to live, so servers need your tips for a living wage. That's the American hospitality business.
@user-xo6bl8qc5o I'm American and live in a big city area. Years ago, tipping was only in certain services, and the law is still written this way today. The last several years, everyone expects a tip, when some make proper wages. It's ok to disagree with me.
Watching this breaks my heart. I’m a New Yorker and it makes me sad what these people are doing to us. We don’t deserve to be struggling but at the same time we’ve must continue to fight for our home.
The thing about the doggie doo, I learned that from my son. 🤣🤣🤣 I usually don't go to Manhattan when I visit my son (except to eat at Kissaki. Oh my, their Valentine's Day omakase was so good!). But, even when we limit ourselves to LIC, it's still the same. I have to look out for doggie doo when walking. 🤣🤣🤣 Not too crazy about Philly, but I would love to dine at Morimoto's.
Are religiously come to your videos man being a comedy club promoter in times square knowing over the years we had a lot of rotten eggs always afraid of seeing us being talked down I come to these videos and just happy to see we are never to targeted for unnecessary bs
Nah it's an awesome experience for a tourist. However I will say once you see it once, there's no reason to go back. You gotta remember, Times Square is the first thing the majority of tourists think of, especially those from over seas. If you know how to avoid the scams Times Square is a great place to check out for an hour during a vacation here
@@muscleman125 lol, okay, okay, just read your post after I wrote my anti-Times Square rant...and you've got a point there...heck, stop by, if you must, but an HOUR, k? 😉That sounds about right! Then, get movin' and experience the real NY! But sure, may as well say you did it...although as @GothamTalk says, one & done 🤣
I bought my usual 2 cheese slices and water for $3 and I dropped the pizza just as a bike rider stopped next to me. I picked up my slices and put them in the trash. The bike rider was waiting for me to finish and said this is all the money I have for the pizza. I replied "you didn't cause me to drop my pizza. That was on me" We're both locals so not all of us are bad :)
I was checking out of the Las Vegas Hilton in 2014, when a man and his wife were arguing with the clerk about the Hotel Fee. They had paid for their vacation on Expedia. Now the hotel wanted their credit card number for a $39.95 a night "resort fee". I had a deal of $29.95 and stayed a week, but I listened to the man and his wife. I told the clerk as I checked out, that I will never come back if you charge a resort fee. And meant it.
Chambers Street is super scary at night. I was offered a position and i was going to have to take one of those trains and i did not accept the position because of that station.
Thank You for Mentioning Sarges Deli…. Blows Katz away. I tell people avoid to avoid Katz like the Plague. Great tips on the Scammers also. Don’t even break stride to listen or respond to them. NEVER LET ANYONE TAKE YOUR LUGGAGE / BAG !!! I think if people follow the guidelines you laid out they’ll be fine in NYC ✅🤙🏼❗️ Well Done. 👍
My biggest mistake was assuming that New Yorkers wouldn't be helpful when I got lost or was otherwise having trouble. Living in the south my entire life, I have always been told that new yorkers don't know how to walk slowly and that they will bite your head off for just saying hello lol. My experience was quite the opposite. People were soooo helpful especially when this Georgia boy could not wrap his head around the subway system.
Well, yeah. There's just no fake smiling or pretending to like things. See, I don't have to like you to describe in detail how to do X thing in the city. Just don't stand on the left side of the escalator. That _will_ get your head bitten off.
I’m trying to teach my family how to act in NYC! We just booked an overnight for our daughter’s 10th birthday!! She’s so excited! It’s in December so it’s going to be so beautifully decorated ❤
@@kimmurray9346 Kim, you're gonna have an awesome time! As a lifelong NY-er, I can guarantee that your daughter and you're entire family will be welcome with open arms, as we're a warm and loving bunch...we just love for folks to visit, and in fact this entire city is one big melting pot of folks who've eventually landed here after fallling in love with it. So just be yourself, and you'll feel right at home! (Just please, walk to the right side, that's the only prerequisite, scout's honor! 🤣) Oh, and please, please don't stay in Times Square or in midtown in general. There are so many stunning, vibrant, much safer and much prettier neighborhoods that you'll adore!! (either near the park or the water..take your pick...but in the middle of yucky midtown/Times Square? basically a dirty business district...that's not the real NY....just a heads up, so she'll fall in love with the beauty of the🍎🤗
@@Katt1989 thank you so much. We are BEYOND excited!! We are trying to find out all the rules of the city. We do want to pop into TS but I heard Bryant Park is gorgeous also. We want to bring a food donation while we are there to bring for the houseless in the city at the holidays. (My daughter’s idea). The walking pattern is definitely a skill we are trying to master! 7 weeks and counting!
@@kimmurray9346 I am a life long New Yorker. I live in the Bronx, and I do not recommend going to Time Square. When my cousin came to NYC with her friend during the holidays, they insisted on going to Time Square. I told them to wait for me to help them navigate the place. I couldn't wait to get out of there LOL A better alternative, if you want to see beautiful holiday displays, go to Saks Fifth Avenue. They have a beautiful display outside of the store and it is spectacular. The inside is worth a visit as well. If you care to brave the crowds, the Rock Center Christmas tree on 6th is pretty awesome. Enjoy and be safe!
Tip culture is getting out of control in the United States. Times Square for example, bruh nobody asked, booked or scheduled u to entertain, nobody asked you for merch. Get out of my face trying to force a tip.
I work in Hospitality, My guests biggest complaint comes from Pedicabs. More than the resort fees. Do not do Pedicabs unless you like surprises at the end of your journey. 🤬
#1 Excellent video! #2 If you don't want to get scammed as a senior remember the cardinal RULE: The answer is always NO! NO to questions, no to requests, no no no no, the Answer is always Noooooo! Rule #3 skip the ATM. Go to a CVS, Target, or any other store where you can get cash back. You won't have to pay the bank and machine fees either. My bank knows to alert me if there is EVER an ATM Charge because it's NOT me. #4 All streets have rats and roaches 😢 do you think food trucks are hermetically sealed? Get a restaurant guide and tip 20% it's good karma. You are helping a New Yorker pay their rent. If you don't want to shell out for a sit down, then make yourself a picnic lunch to go. Sit in the Park. #6 Remember you're a Senior, don't be shy about inquiring after discounts. 😊😊
If you accidentally get off at Newark Penn. Just get on the next train to NY which will be on the same track. Odds are they wont punch a whole in your ticket before Newark Penn because at Newark Airport station you have to go through a fare gate.
If you're a military veteran the best / most economical place to stay overnight is the Airman, Soldiers, and Sailors club on Lexington & 38th st. In the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The building is old, but it's very clean, and be aware that you have to go upstairs to get to your room. Be advised it's really for the handicap or very old.
My biggest mistake is planning to many activities per day. I just got back yesterday from our 5th visit and we continue to over book our days(this time we were a group of 10) yes we were exhausted and are looking forward to our 6th visit. We always stay at the St Marks hotel in the east village ❤️
Pack more clothes if you perspire easily and are visiting NYC during the summer months when it's hot and muggy. You'll realize you're going to go through one or two changes of clothes from sweating, especially when you're waiting for a subway train in underground stations, especially 2nd sublevel stations for the F or 7 trains.
New York is cool but all these "rules" and the fact that its dirty and you have to line up for everything and its crowded and has a filthy subway and there's so many weirdos around make it so over rated.🤷🏽♂️
Thanks for your great uploads! I have just booked a hotel not too far from 9th avenue all because......i want to visit 5 ninth avenue 😀😁😁👌 Watched all the original footage filmed in the 80s and cant wait to go and see Nelson Sullivans home and the vine that is still there apparantley...Great video thank you 👌☺
