Walking
If you saw "Super Size Me" (go immediately if you haven't) you may have heard our narrator/star mention that New Yorkers walk, on average, four or five hours a day. If you take into account that these are usually people who know exactly where they are going...you'll probably realize that you are going to be doing some walking here. Be ready and have shoes and clothing that are comfortable for foot travel. If you're anything like me you won't be going to places with dress requirements.

Timing
Once I heard a character from that NBC/Manhattan sitcom "Mad About You" say that everything in New York takes two hours. Take into account that you may be waiting in line, you may have to walk to the train, you may (will) have a wait for the train, and you'll be doing some walking once you get off the train. Don't schedule things too tight. You'll just end up being disappointed and angry. Believe me, there enough of both of those types in New York already.

If you get in a jam, timewise, and you don't mind spending a little extra money, flag down a taxi. And while you should take at least one NYC cab ride while you're here be aware that these rides can get expensive for those on a budget.

Backpack
Make sure you bring a backpack or bicycle messenger bag that you can carry your junk (maps, extra clothing, bottle of water, reading material, notebook,camera, purchases you make throughout the day, etc.) around. I have one with me at all times and never set it down or lose track of it.

Planning/Notebook
Your time here is limited and precious. Use this and other web sites to do some research ahead of time. Print useful information and put things together in a small three ring binder. Use my "Printable List" link for a compact (well, six pages) version of this site. There are all kinds of travel guides that I've found useful, too. Carry your information binder around in your backpack.

SPA

Maps
Sure you're going to look like an uncool jackass perusing your map but its better than wandering around like a lost jackass. There are (links to)four maps you can print at the top of each page of this web site and, while you may be able to find a decent New York map at a bookstore, I've always had the best luck buying one at the airport. Keep yer maps in yer backpack.

Metro Pass
For $21 you can get a 7-day metro pass that is good for unlimited usage on all New York City subways and buses. Buy it from the guy selling subway tokens or from one of the machines at any metro station. Do this and do it before you take your first subway ride.

If you're stuck, or in a hurry, tired of the trains, or simply lost you can grab a yellow taxi cab almost anywhere. Its a little expensive but in a pinch you can usually count on finding a cab. Just tell the driver where you want to go.

Cash
Sorry American Express, but the truth is that those traveler's checks are a huge pain in the ass for everyone involved. Many places will just not take them. They suck. Bring enough cash and/or make sure you have an ATM card (you can't close your eyes and spit without hitting an ATM) that will work in NYC. It would be a good idea to have a credit card or two also but be aware that there are a lot of places here that are "cash only."

Food and Eating
First off you can get a cheese slice (trust "Ray's Pizza") or a decent hot dog just about anywhere, just about anytime. If a deli or falafel place looks decent take a chance on one of their sandwiches. There's no reason for you to be eating at McDonald's (even though there are over 80 in Manhattan alone) or Subway when you are here.

If you go through my site you'll notice that I recommend a half-dozen decent low-priced places (all over the city) you can grit.

Speaking of delis watch the places that don't have their prices marked. Don't be afraid to ask the price of things before you buy. Some of these guys will make up prices on the spot and charge as much as they can get away with. If the counter-guy smirks smirk back and go to the place on the next block.

SPA

Beer
There's nothing worse than that sinking feeling the first time you pay $6 for a bottle of Budweiser...followed by the bartender telling you to go to hell for only leaving a $1 tip. Drink water or look around. There are bars and restaurants where you can get a decent draft for three or four bucks, and you can always buy a decent six-pack (I recommend Brooklyn Lager) at a deli for less than $10.

Tourist Crap
Most of the standard tourist attractions are a boring pain in the ass. Go to Ellis Island if you want to look up your ancestors, hit a tall building if you want a nice look at the city, take the tour of the New York Stock Exchange. The Guggenheim building is nice to have a look at and you'll see some beautiful art at the Met. But the truth is if you're not interested in these things consider skipping them. Don't feel obligated to visit the typical tourist traps. In my book you get the feel of the city by walking the streets, riding the trains, and visiting stores. If you love music you can easily find enough interesting music-type stuff to do for a week.

Be Careful and Ask Questions
My last, and perhaps most important, piece of advice is to always be careful and never be afraid to ask questions.

If you maintain self-control, be patient and tolerant, and don't do anything reckless you should have a great trip with no problems. The horror stories that make the front of the New York Post are, 99% of the time, a result of people who didn't follow these simple rules. If you stumble around the Lower East Side dead drunk at 4 a.m. or give some guy hell because he bumped you on the subway stairs you're asking for trouble.

If you're not sure about something (directions, procedures, cost of something, etc.) there is probably someone close by who can help you out. Be short and succint but don't hesitate to ask questions. Most people are reasonably friendly and will be glad to help you out.

SPA