GETTING AROUND

The NYC Subway is cheap, reliable and easy to use. It may also be considerable faster than taxis for longer distances. Regardless of how far you travel, the fare is USD 2.25. The MetroCard has replaced tokens as means of fare and is available at any ticket machine where you can top it up using a credit card or cash. Unlimited ride passes are available for either one way (USD 7.50 FunPass) or one week (USD 25 7-day Unlimited Ride). Transfers between buses and the subway are free using a MetroCard.

The buses in Manhattan typically travel only along uptown-downtown or cross-town routes, making it difficult to get on a wrong line, and if you’re only going a few stops, then it may be faster than either subway or hailing a cab. The fare is USD 2.25, payable using exact change or a MetroCard. Transfers between buses and the subway are free using a MetroCard.

Taxis are relatively cheap in Manhattan and you’re able to get most places for less than a tenner. Fares are metered and start at USD 3; a 10-15% tip is expected. If the rooftop numbers are lit up, the cab can be flagged down. The cab is occupied when the top light is switched off, so pay attention and save yourself some embarrassing arm-flailing. All licensed taxicabs are yellow – accepting a ride from anyone else can be dangerous or expensive. Make a habit of noting the cab number before you get in and it’ll be a help if you encounter problems or leave something behind. A few drivers now accept credit cards, although the majority prefers you to pay in cash.

For those credit card burning shopping sprees.