Visiting New York City on a modest budget – Part 4

Start your trip by doing research. Don’t assume you can pick a random amount of money and that it will cover all of your expenses. The Big Apple can cost big bucks if you’re not careful. Do you want to see the Statue of Liberty? It costs to go up the monument but also to take a ferry across the water to it.

Would you like to see a Broadway show? If you buy same day tickets while in New York you can save a bundle. One way to do this is by visiting a TKTS Booth for shows at up to 50% off the original ticket price. Find more detailed information on the TKTS Booths at: http://www.entertainment-link. com/tkts.asp

You should also visit a few museums while visiting New York. While most museums charge admission you can check their individual websites for any specials they might have. The Guggenheim normally charges $18 for an adult admission. However, on Fridays after 5:45, they have a “pay what you wish” program to gain entrance.

City Pass tickets also offer travelers a way to package multiple attractions into a single cost. At only $65, the NYC City Pass gets tourists admission to the Empire State Building, a number of museums, and a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise. For more info. visit: http://www.citypass.com/city/n y.html

Where you stay in New York will affect your cost. The closer you are to downtown or the coast the pricier your hotel will be. If you can’t find a budget hotel, look at a map of the city and use that to find a good deal. A hot dog on a street corner or a small family owned diner can enrich your experience of New York while giving your wallet a break. It can be okay to splurge every once in a while and maybe go to Tavern on the Green, but make sure you understand the costs of these places ahead of time.

Finally, you will need to get around New York. Cab fares have standardized fees, but be aware that they charge you for miles traveled and also time idling in traffic. The subway can be confusing, but if you familiarize yourself with underground tunnels ahead of time you should be fine.

Just remember to plan out your budget ahead of time and stick to it. Happy traveling everyone!