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Just one more week before we Rock The World – starting with NYC! So, if you are about to launch your maiden voyage into the Big Apple, here’s a few thoughts after my virgin trip in January.
Myths?
1. The Subway is hard
Nope, it's really easy!
Here's the math
1 ,2, 3 go North/South along the west side of the peninsula
4, 5, 6 go North/South along the east side of the peninsula
7 goes East/West and links them around Time Square. So, if you’re at the bottom tip and hop North on the 1, transfer to the 7 then hit the 4,5,6 and head up to the east side of Central Park. What's there? I don't know. Let's have an adventure and check it out!
Easy peasy.
2. Hells Kitchen = Hells Angels
Nope. Lot’s of great restaurants, theatre goers and theatre peeps. I ate there a lot on my trip and overhead some incredibly funny conversations (by the theatre types) – even the waiters were laughing one night.
3. NYC isn’t safe – watch your purse
No…and yes
I walked, subway’d and taxi’d all over and had no problems and no “hinky” vibes. But it’s just a good idea to watch your purse.
4. Taxi’s are expensive
Yes and no
They can be if you get stuck in traffic and the meter is running. But I watched Angela in action and she would negotiate the fare before getting in! Best to know what a fair fare is though, I think. Bring comfy shoes, the walking is good. (Another myth buster: I had good drivers who spoke English).
5. There’s great coffee shops
Um..NopeThere’s Starbucks and tons of them. Get your last Peet’s at JFK and "savor" it slowly. There’s not even very many mom & pop coffee shops.
I thought in a city that’s famous for Italian food, there would certainly be nooks and crannies for espresso. Nope. (Oh, and if you think the ‘bucks is "great" coffee…come on out to the Left Coast!)
6. Getting to the city from JFK is tricky
Yep, alittle bit, the first time.
The minute I exited baggage claim I was approached by many “independent” drivers. We were told on the plane to avoid them. It was a bit confusing finding a shuttle. When I got one it took 2 hrs to get to my hotel – he dropped off all 10 other passengers all over the city first. No worries, it was my first time, I got to see a lot. But this time, I’m packing light and hitting the subway!
Tips
The Highline
An old elevated rail line that has been made into a walking path/park. It was awesome in Jan, can’t wait to see it in May!
The Theatre
American Idiot (the musical by Green Day) and The Addams Family are playing now – anyone in? Oh, but if you haven’t seen Wicked, that would be the one to catch. I’ve seen it twice in SF – it’s mesmerizing!
Walking
This was my favorite thing about my trip. I walked all over from Times Square to SoHo, The Village, Chelsea and back to Hell’s Kitchen. The vibe changed every few blocks. The architecture, people watching, shopping and nibbly bits were amazing. Can’t wait to do it again without freezing MAO this time!
Virgin
Beg, barrow, steal but get on Virgin America!
Once you try Virgin, you won’t want to fly anyone else! Leg room, order drinks and snacks from the online menu at your seat, great TV, movie, music, game selections, "mood" lighting and free WiFi.
Oh, and you gotta watch the “buckle your seatbelt” movie that comes on at the beginning. You’ll think “Oh I know this, I’ve seen it before." But this little movie is cute and funny.
OK girls, let’s rock this joint!
Anyone got any other myth busters and tips for NYC newbees?
Jenn
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