The subway/bus is definitely safe and a cool way to experience NYC for the first time.
However, if you think you're gonna be tired and are interested in seeing the city itself as you get in (considering it will be your first time) you might want to take a cab just to let it all in without having to think about anything.
Also, you'll have lots of time to utilize the subway on your other days there. A cab/car service just might allow you to soak in the city more easily/comfortably for the first time.
However, if money is tight/an issue, definitely subway/bus it. It'll save you at least $25.
you couldn't swing if you were hangin' from a palm tree in a hurricane.
The original poster also mentioned that he has no idea what he's getting into here in NYC.
If one of my family members from out of town were coming in, there's no way I'm telling them to find the bus and transfer to the right train, then walk some distance. Or trapse around harlem & 125th street. The risk of getting on the wrong bus, train, or getting lost in the mix is high with someone unfamiliar with NYC transit.
If you're competent and good with directions the subway and train is not an issue, even for first timers.
Edit: plus, if you're not in a rush, getting a little lost in the long run is a really good way to learn the city and get a better sense of direction/where you are.
you couldn't swing if you were hangin' from a palm tree in a hurricane.
For your first time in NYC you need to take the cab... For $25 bucks or so, tell him to take the Grand Central to the BQE to the LIE and then you want to take the 59th street bridge upper level into midtown. It's the best view going into mahattan there is....
I recommend that for any first timer to the Big Apple...
the LIE at 7pm? Oy!
I would cab it also.
"...like a word misplaced, nothing said, what a waste.."
"Sometimes life should be consumed in measured doses"
6-01-06
6/25/08
Free Speedy
and Metsy!
I am going on the experience of being traveler to NYC, rather than living there. And I think that it is definitely two different experience bases. If it is your first time going, I think you should take a cab and save the time/energy for seeing the sights when you get settled. If you have been there a few times and are comfortable navigating around, then maybe take a chance on the bus etc...I wouldn't have wanted to go the bus route my first time there, if only to get the ball rolling, but also out of comfort. Now, if the spread from bus ticket to cab fare is too much, well, the decision is made for you I guess.
One thing though..once you actually get to your hotel and are settled...forget about the cabs until it is time to go back to the airport ;-) Walk...walk..walk...or hop the subway
take a taxi. it will get you into Manhattan at a reasonable time. you can check in, even take a shower and have plenty of time for dinner and hit a bar or two.
subway and bus service can be sporadic at night in Queens.
see ya at the shows.
Again thanks everyone for all the great taxi/subway/car service advice. I am pretty travel savvy and I have backpacked across Europe via trains and subways so I think I could figure it out in NYC subways too. Some people who have traveled with me have asked me if I have a GPS system in my brain because for some reason I have always been pretty good with my sense of direction. I doubt I will be tired arriving in NYC so I think I might be good to jump on the subway and go drop my backpack off around MSG before I go find some NYC food. see you all at the shows!
Comments
The subway/bus is definitely safe and a cool way to experience NYC for the first time.
However, if you think you're gonna be tired and are interested in seeing the city itself as you get in (considering it will be your first time) you might want to take a cab just to let it all in without having to think about anything.
Also, you'll have lots of time to utilize the subway on your other days there. A cab/car service just might allow you to soak in the city more easily/comfortably for the first time.
However, if money is tight/an issue, definitely subway/bus it. It'll save you at least $25.
If you're competent and good with directions the subway and train is not an issue, even for first timers.
Edit: plus, if you're not in a rush, getting a little lost in the long run is a really good way to learn the city and get a better sense of direction/where you are.
*Official Marker in the Sand Fan Club Junkie*
Member # 0003
wont let the light escape from me
wont let the darkness swallow me
I would cab it also.
"Sometimes life should be consumed in measured doses"
6-01-06
6/25/08
Free Speedy
and Metsy!
One thing though..once you actually get to your hotel and are settled...forget about the cabs until it is time to go back to the airport ;-) Walk...walk..walk...or hop the subway
subway and bus service can be sporadic at night in Queens.
see ya at the shows.
22.11.05 Santiago
23.11.05 Santiago
11.06.08 West Palm Beach