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5 Tips to Stay on Budget in New York

NYC skyscrapers on the Hudson

A trip to the "Big Apple" doesn't have to cost a fortune, the trick is to know the right tips to optimize your budget and make the most of your stay in New York! It's known that New York is an expensive destination but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy everything that the 'city that never sleeps' offers.

We've teamed up with Eric, from NewYork.co.uk, to share his expert advice to help you save money on your trip to New York. With one click, you can contact Eric directly on Facebook.com/NewYork or by email - eric@newyork.co.uk, he will give you his best tips and tricks to make your trip unforgettable!

Discount passes to visit attractions

There are many must-see attractions and sites to visit in New York City, but all those visits can quickly add up, costing you a lot of money. Discount passes are a great way to save on ticket prices.

 

Attraction passes

There are two different types of passes: one for the number of attractions and one for the number of days. With an attraction pass, like the Explorer Pass or the Sightseeing Flex Pass, you choose the number of attractions you want to see during your stay. This pass is ideal for a leisurely schedule of shopping, walking, and strolling the streets of the Big Apple.

 

Day passes

With a day pass like the New York Pass or the Sightseeing Day Pass, you choose the number of days you want your pass to be valid. From the moment you activate your pass in New York, you have unlimited access to all the included attractions in your pass selection for the duration you choose! This is perfect for those who want to see and do as much as possible in New York.

 

Tip: Because it can be hard to choose a discount pass, you can find all the benefits of the main passes at a glance on this New York discount pass comparison post. You'll also find promo codes to get even more discounts on attractions in New York!

View of dinosaur at the Smithsonian with people walking around

Save on transport costs

The New York City subway is not only the most efficient way to get around the city but also the most economical. If you're landing at JFK airport, you can avoid the traffic jams by taking the AirTrain and then the subway, which will take you straight into the heart of Manhattan. To avoid queuing at the ticket machines on arrival, consider ordering your MetroCards and Airtrain tickets online before you leave. You can do so on the website NewYork.co.uk.

Empty NYC subway car

Unlimited MetroCard 

Spending a week in the city or having a busy schedule? Buy the 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard for unlimited access to the underground and all local buses for 7 consecutive days.

 

Pay-per-Ride MetroCard

Only in town for a few days? Then opt for the Pay-per-Ride MetroCard which entitles you to 12 journeys. You can also use this card with up to 4 people. 

 

Tip: Download the ‘Eric's New York-  Travel Guide’ app, to see which subway stations are close to you. It is completely free and works without an internet connection once you are in New York. You can geo-locate yourself on the city map and easily find all the stations and lines nearby. The ideal way to simplify your life regarding public transport!

The Best of Broadway

Seeing a Broadway show is another must-do activity in New York. Book your tickets for Broadway shows in advance to avoid missing out on the show you're most excited about, but more importantly to get the best deals online.

'The Lion King' ad on Broadway

Broadway is a must-see in New York and performances take place 365 days a year, which means that tickets are always in high demand. From classics like The Lion King and Chicago to newer shows like MJ The Michael Jackson Musical and Harry Potter, there's something for everyone. Don't be one of those people who arrive on the day and end up paying full price for their tickets.

 

Shopping at bargain prices

You can't visit this fashion capital without visiting Woodbury Common Outlet. With 220 outlet shops, this is where you'll find the best deals on designer brands. Some attraction passes include a day trip to Woodbury Common, another good reason to get one! Hop on the bus, sit

back and relax for an hour until you arrive at the 'Disneyland' of shopping. Don't forget to leave enough room in your suitcase to bring back all your finds!

Macy's billboard sign over Sunglass Hut store

If you don't have all day to shop, then pop into New York's most iconic department store, Macy's. Spread over 11 floors, you'll find everything you need. Plus get 10% off your purchases if you present the Eric's New York app at the checkout, so you don't want to miss out!

 

Eat well and cheap

Discovering New York's culinary specialties doesn't have to be expensive. Some of the Big Apple's best restaurants are very famous, and the bill can quickly skyrocket, but you can also eat out for less without sacrificing taste!

 

Pizzas

Do as the New Yorkers do: grab a slice of pizza for only a few dollars at Joe's Pizza (7 Carmine Street). This little pizza place is often a favorite with celebrities. Who knows, you might be lucky enough to run into one!

 

Bagels

For a quick lunch, bagels are popular with locals. Bagels come in a variety of flavors: salmon, chicken, tuna, and vegetarian, there's something for everyone. Visit Russ & Daughters, a New York institution that has been serving bagels since 1914.

 

Hamburgers

What could be more American than a hamburger with a side of fries? But not just any burger! Head to the Shake Shack in Madison Square Park for a juicy burger and a milkshake, their specialty. Be prepared to wait in line, but it's definitely worth it!

Slice of NYC pizza with taxi in background

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About

Hi there! 

We are Jacob and Taylor. Travel is our passion and we love sharing our experiences here at The Travelling Souk. Our hope is that you would be inspired by this little blog to try something new, embrace an adventure, and live life to the fullest. 

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