New York City Dos and Don'ts
Over my past eight weeks of studying in New York City this summer, I learned a new lesson seemingly everyday. Before then, I had only been on a handful of weekend trips with my friends where we squeezed in every Broadway show we could manage, took Ubers everywhere and never turned down a cocktail or a coffee.
For a weekend trip, you can treat your stay like what it is, a vacation with complete and utter freedom, but this time I was living in the city, actually, really living here. I knew that it would be much more of a learning curve, but I always try to go into life with confidence and faith in myself to succeed.
Still, I am not invincible and I definitely had my fair share of humbling moments this summer, but I always stood up, dusted myself off and got back out into the streets to slay another day. So, here is my list of dos and don’ts I curated over my time to help you be your best self in New York City, whether it’s for a weekend or the rest of your life.
Do: Learn Your Subway Routes
Absolutely lock down your subway routes as soon as possible. Learn the difference between downtown and uptown and express and local. Once you have that figured out you’re golden. I learned that difference the hard way, but just follow along on your Google Maps and always leave extra time before you leave the house.
Don’t: Take Ubers Everywhere
Ubers and taxis can get super expensive in the city, so it really is best to just brave the subway. You could, of course, walk places where possible, too, but I promise the subway is not as scary as it seems and you will be shocked at how seamlessly you can move around with its help.
Do: Invest in Groceries and a Keurig
There are convenience stores and small markets littered everywhere around the city. Especially in the village area, where I lived, there were little places on every corner where you could grab your quick groceries or other essentials. Try not to eat out very often or hit the Blank Street everyday.
Don’t: Get a Latte Everyday
I know it can be tricky to not go buy a fresh bagel each morning, but if you spread out your little treats throughout the week, they will be more special and valuable. You’ll also, of course, save money because you would not believe how much a couple of matchas a week can start adding up in your bank account.
Do: Go Explore
Being in the city in the summer, I used every chance I got to be outside exploring my surroundings. Depending on the season, this may not be an option for you, but even if you can’t spend all day getting a tan in Central Park, you should still get out there and explore parts of the city you have always wanted to. If it’s cold and rainy, discover a new coffee shop or bookstore. It’s New York City, there’s always somewhere to go rain or shine, so go cross off some bucket list items.
Don’t: Stay Inside All Day
Setting up the look of your new apartment or temporary living space can be fun, but make sure you make the most of your time in the city, however long it may be. I know there’s something you have always wanted to do or see, and there’s no time like the present to go accomplish it.
Do: Make Some New Friends
I used my summer classes to meet some new people this summer, and I am so grateful to have had their company over my eight weeks in the city. Use your social media accounts, local flyers and just generally keep an ear to the ground for social circles, local events, clubs and groups that share the same interests as you to make some new friends. As you’re well aware, New York is huge and there are dozens if not hundreds of people new to the area who also need some new like minded companionship, so go out and find them and take on the city together.
Don’t: Try and Take on the Whole City Alone
Searching high and low for a tiny pop up shop or an unfamiliar subway platform is a lot more rewarding when you have someone to experience the adventure with. Spending time by yourself can be beneficial sometimes when we need to recharge, but in a city that can be this overwhelming, make sure to find friends where you can.
Do: Find Thrift Stores (Not Just Vintage Stores)
Shopping areas like Soho and Fifth Avenue can be really overwhelming, and it can feel impossible to resist splurging all your money on one article of clothing from a high-end label. However, thrifting is completely doable and rewarding in the city, you just have to look a little harder. I found some delightful hole-in-the-wall thrift stores in places like the Village and Soho, and there is even a great Goodwill by Union Square. Be warned about vintage stores that pose as lower-cost. Thrifting and vintage shopping are not interchangeable.
Don’t: Overspend on Name Brands and Shop Locally
Thrifty girls like me can sense a nearby deal from a mile away, but if you get easily frustrated by the vast size and uncertainty of thrifting, honestly, New York is a great place to start. If you don’t find anything in one store, just try the one a couple doors down. The sheer size of the city works in your favor this time and I guarantee you will find a new store you absolutely love, even if it doesn’t come with a known label. Smaller labels or various local artist markets also occur frequently in the city for sustainable, cheaper choices.
Do: Go Out Responsibly
I turned 21 in New York this summer, and so I learned a lot about purchasing alcohol and bar culture in one of the most intense environments possible. I had no idea how expensive one drink could be, so I encourage you all to locate all the happy hours you can or pre-game a little with your friends to avoid getting scammed into an over-expensive drink while out. Also if you feel you have had too much to drink, feel free to take an Uber this time. You need to have your wits about you on the subway late at night, especially if it’s just you.
Don’t: Splurge on Crazy Cocktails
I would also recommend trying a sober night out, or just one drink. Alcohol is expensive everywhere and getting too drunk in such a large, overwhelming city can get dangerous fast. Stay close to your friends, drink responsibly and take any measures necessary to make yourself feel safe while out and while getting back home. You could also just go to dinner or a movie with your friends and avoid the bars and clubs altogether.
Keep this list in mind the next time you are in the city, and above all, have the best time ever!
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