New Yorkers know the easiest way to get from point A to point B. They know when to pay to less, what museums to go to each day of the week, and can usually pick out tourists in a crowd. As a result, here are some tips you may want to think about when travelling to the big city.
Number one rule above all the rest
Do not look like a tourist. Yes, it sounds a bit ridiculous, and you might question how this can be achieved. You should not walk around wearing an “I heart NY” t-shirt, with a huge camera hanging from your neck, walking slowly in the crowds as you gaze up in awe at the huge skyscrapers. By doing this, you avoid the possibility of being taken advantage of. Street vendors will most likely charge you more and taxi cab drivers will probably take the longer route to your requested destination, thus having you pay more money.
Prices can be negotiated
This does not mean you can go into a McDonald’s and bargain a better price for a cheeseburger. You can however, haggle better deals with street vendors and small “ma and pop” shops. Canal Street, for example, is notorious for this (and a great place to buy a knock-off Gucci purse). If you see an item you would like to purchase, ask the seller how much it is. After the merchant gives you the price, ask him or her if they’d take less. If he or she says no, walk away. I repeat, always walk away. Almost ninety percent of the time, sellers will call out and say, “Ok, fine it’s a deal!” In the unlikely event the seller does not call out after you, do not stress about going back and swallowing your pride. Chances are, you will find the exact same item, two blocks away, on the same street. Most places downtown, and even in Times Square, will negotiate prices so don’t be nervous to do so.