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Saturday, August 16, 2014

First Time in New York - Part 2


   We've already started our journey in New York, as we promised; here are some ther things you have to be aware of on your first time in the city.

4- Electronic


I Always laugh at these plugs because they seem like a confused face, i don't know about you guys; Leave in the comments below if you agree with me

The standard voltage in North America is 120V 220V against the rest of the world. Thus, it may be that your electronics do not work in the United States; outlets also have a different shape, so it is highly likely that your cards are not compatible with American made. Make sure you buy adapters comply with American standards for all your portable devices.

5- Rules of etiquette in the metro stations



At all hours of the day, people go to the station nearest metro because it is a means of rapid transport. And if there's one thing that New Yorkers do not like is to be delayed by something trivial. 

It may be that the turnstiles are congested - large stations can be dozens, less popular just two - so always keep your metro card available when you enter a station. This will save not only the criticisms of an impatient New Yorkers, but you will also save valuable time (which could be the difference between make or miss his train). Confirm your front side card. Stay on the right side of the escalators to allow those who climb on foot to pass on the left side. Never hold the doors are now closing - even if your train is stopped. You can not drag you into the train and you could put your life or the lives of others in danger. Finally, beware of scammers. It is best to ignore them, no matter what they sell. No need to avoid the subway for fear - be careful, use common sense and everything will be fine.

6- Sidewalks

Do not stop in the middle of the sidewalk! This is the main concern of any New Yorker of origin. Pedestrians need to move on and if you stop in the middle of the sidewalk you slow foot traffic. (This is especially true if you are traveling with a group of people - do not take everything the sidewalk!). If you need to consult a map or if you want to take a picture, you simply push the side. If you notice someone walking at a faster pace, give him room to pass. Be courteous walk as you are in the car and everyone will find his account.

7- Directions

In Manhattan, if you want to go "north", you say that you go "uptown"; go to the "south" means you are going "downtown." (There is no equivalent terminology to describe the east-west direction.) Keep in mind that this is the way that the subway system classifies directions in Manhattan. If you want to visit 14th Street (Greenwich Village) from 42nd Street (the heart of Midtown), so you should use public transport toward downtown. Also, when you refer to places in Manhattan, first start by street and by the avenue. For example: if you want to get to the corner of 10th Street and 3rd Avenue, say 10th and 3rd, and vice versa. However, even these directions are vague: remember that 5th Avenue divides streets east and west; once the West 33rd through 5th Avenue, it becomes, on the other hand, the 33th East. The streets run east to west while avenues run north to south (or uptown-downtown). One of the many advantages of Manhattan's grid system are, which makes the traffic - especially for beginners - easy to manage. Keep in mind that some of the oldest parts of the city - below 14th Street - does not work with this grid system. You see the streets forming strange angles and you'll struggle to find street names by numbers. Little secret: New Yorkers, despite their reputation, are not always sharp. If you talk to them and politely ask them your way, there's a good chance these - native or expatriate seasoned - to agree to help. Do not be afraid to ask if you are comfortable doing.

8- Taxi rules


Sometimes - especially when the weather is inclement - you might be tempted to go to someone to catch a taxi. Do not do it, period. It's very rude and it does not speed up your trip. Remember: Taxis are everywhere in New York, and there will always another corner of the street. That said, be careful. Never get into an unregistered vehicle. Taxis from Manhattan (medallion cabs) are world famous for their yellow color. All other taxis in the other boroughs - and north of East 96th and West 110th in the central district - are green apple (the "boro taxis"). Rooftop legal taxis is a plaque stating "livery" for taxis that are not yellow or T & LC for others, and an identification number. If you want a free taxi, be aware that if the warning light on the roof is on it means the taxi is free; if it is off, it is busy. Also try to see if the words "off-duty" is on - if so, the taxi is not available.


And now, you are ready to go to New York, share with us your favourite moments there :)


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picture credits:
wikipedia.org

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