New York, the city that never sleeps, attracts millions of visitors every year. With its iconic skyscrapers, world-class museums and vibrant atmosphere, it represents a dream for many. However, a stay in New York requires a careful preparation to make the most of it. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to the Big Apple, it's easy to get the most out of your stay. essential to be well prepared in terms of health, safety, budget, and cultural adaptation.

Health & Safety

Travel insurance, vaccinations and health precautions

Before flying to New York, it is imperative that you take out a travel insurance. The United States, and New York in particular, can be costly in terms of medical care. A simple visit to the doctor or emergency room can quickly turn into a hefty bill. Travel insurance is therefore essential not only to cover medical expenses, but also to deal with unforeseen events such as flight cancellations, lost luggage or other incidents that may occur during your stay.

As far as vaccinations are concerned, there are no specific vaccinations required to enter the United States if you are coming from a European or North American country. However, it is always advisable to check that your routine vaccinations (such as tetanus, diphtheria, polio, etc.) are up to date. In addition, since New York is a very busy city, it's a good idea to get a flu shot, especially if you're traveling during the winter.

As for sanitary precautions, access to drinking water is safe throughout the city, and food sold in restaurants and street stalls is generally well prepared. However, it's always wise to observe a few basic rules: wash your hands regularly, avoid eating food sold in dubious conditions, and hydrate frequently, especially in summer when temperatures can soar.

Safety in New York: tips for avoiding high-risk areas and staying vigilant

On the whole, New York is a safe city, but like any large metropolis, there are areas and situations where caution is called for. The first rule is to stay alert, especially at night. Tourist areas such as Times Square, Central Park, and Manhattan in general are very secure, with a strong police presence, but some areas away from the center can be less safe, especially after dark.

It's advisable to avoid going alone to neighborhoods like the Bronx or parts of Brooklyn late at night, unless accompanied by someone who knows the area well. Similarly, it's advisable to avoid parks after dark, with the exception of busy areas like Times Square or the Meatpacking district.

In addition, it's important to be vigilant about pickpocketing, which is common in tourist areas. Keep your belongings close at hand, never leave them unattended, and be particularly careful on public transport and in crowded places.

Another precaution is to avoid showing ostentatious signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or expensive electronics. Although New York is a cosmopolitan and diverse city, it's always best not to attract unnecessary attention.

Budget and foreign exchange

Estimated budget for your stay

New York is a fascinating city, but it can quickly turn into a dangerous one. very expensive if you don't plan your budget carefully. Visit high cost of livingThis is reflected in the prices of hotels, meals, transport and tourist activities.

For a five- to seven-day stay, we recommend a budget of around $150 to $250 per day per person, depending on your travel style. This budget includes accommodation (which can vary from $100 to $300 per night, depending on the location and comfort of the hotel), food (count around $15 to $20 for an economical meal and up to $100 or more for a meal in a fancier restaurant), transport (the metro is economical, with an unlimited pass for a week at around $33), and tourist activities (tickets for museums, shows and attractions can quickly add to the total).

For travelers wishing to save money, there are affordable alternatives such as hostels, fast-food restaurants or food trucks for meals, and extensive use of the subway. What's more, many attractions are free of charge, including the High Line, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty as seen from the Staten Island ferry.

Advice on currency exchange and local payments

It's best to arrive in New York with a small amount of cash in U.S. dollars, but most payments can be made by credit card. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted everywhere, even for small amounts. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, tips, or places that don't accept cards.

For currency exchange, it's generally more advantageous to exchange your money in your home country before you leave. Exchange offices in airports and tourist areas of New York often have less favorable rates and high fees. An interesting alternative is to use cash dispensers (ATM) to withdraw money in dollars. However, make sure your bank does not charge excessive fees for international withdrawals.

It's also a good idea toinform your bank of your trip to avoid having your transactions blocked on suspicion of fraud. Finally, remember to check whether your bank card offers a good exchange rate and reduced fees on international transactions.

Cultural adaptation

Language and cultural differences: etiquette, local customs

Although English is the main language in New York, the city is also a a veritable cultural melting pot where dozens of languages are spoken daily. If you're not fluent in English, don't worry: New Yorkers are used to interacting with visitors from all over the world, and are generally patient and understanding.

In terms of manners, New Yorkers are often perceived as hurried and direct, but they can also be extremely helpful. If you're lost or need advice, don't hesitate to ask for help. Locals will appreciate it if you make an effort to speak English, even if it's only basic.

Local habits also include respect for public spaces and queues. New Yorkers are known for their discipline when it comes to queuing, whether to take the subway or buy a coffee. Not respecting this could be perceived as impolite.

Tips, meal times and local customs to know

Tipping is a a practice deeply rooted in American cultureNew York is no exception. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip 15 to 20 % of the total billunless the service has been particularly bad. Waiters rely heavily on tips to supplement their income, as their basic salary is often very low. In bars, it's also common to leave a tip of around $1 to $2 per drink. For cab drivers, a tip of 10 to 15 % is expected, and for services such as luggage porterage or room service, a tip of 1 to 2 dollars per service is appropriate.

Visit meal times in New York can vary, but in general, lunch is served between 12pm and 2pm, while dinner is generally taken between 6pm and 9pm. However, the city offers dining options at almost any time of the day or night, reflecting its character as the "city that never sleeps". You'll easily find diners, food trucks and restaurants open late into the evening, or even 24 hours a day.

Another local custom to consider is the respect for other people's time. New Yorkers value punctuality, especially in a business environment. If you have an appointment or reservation, it's advisable to arrive on time, or even a few minutes early.

Finally, when it comes to local culture, it's good to know that New York is a very ethnically and culturally diverse city. So it's essential to show tolerance and respect for the different cultures you encounter. Whether it's avoiding inappropriate remarks about people's origins or respecting local customs, respectful behavior will help you enjoy your stay and leave a good impression.

A stay in New York, with its incomparable cultural richness and dynamism, can be an ideal transforming experience. However, to get the most out of your trip, you need to prepare yourself thoroughly. Whether it's to ensure your safety and health, manage your budget optimally, or adapt to the local culture, every aspect of your trip deserves careful attention. By following the practical advice presented in this guide, you'll be well equipped to discover all that this iconic city has to offer, while avoiding common pitfalls. With the right preparation, your stay in New York will be not only enjoyable, but unforgettable.