New York, one of the three “Global Cities” of the world and the biggest city in the United States (U.S.) is always crowded with tourists. Times Square, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge — New York is full of attractions. New York’s pizzas, cheesecakes, and burgers are also famous on a global scale. Kingos, how about discovering the actual atmosphere of New York with us? Become Kevin of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and explore the city with the Sungkyun Times (SKT).
New York, New York
-The City That Never Sleeps
New York City (NYC) is located in the state of New York, on the northeast side of the U.S. To many people, the key image of the U.S. stands in New York or NYC. This is mainly because the key tourist attractions, such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square, are all located in New York. Due to its popularity, New York is often misunderstood as the capital of the U.S., suggesting that NYC has a significant influence over numerous fields, from culture to industry. The city’s endless charms and adventures rise from its “New Yorkers,” the people who live in the densely populated city. The New Yorkers, bold and confident, always in a rush, make the city full of energy and excitement. In fact, New York is the most populated city in the U.S., with a population of 8.51 million in 2023, according to the United States Census. NYC also held approximately 56 million visitors in 2022, as to NYC’s Original City Guide; this outstanding figure implies that it is one of the world’s most popular cities to visit.
-Discover the Actual NYC
New York is often portrayed as a playful yet industrial city in the media. This image is demonstrated in many legendary movies that hold their background in NYC. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and The Devil Wears Prada are two of the most famous examples of films taken in New York. In Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) is left alone in New York; however, he manages to enjoy his winter vacation in his own way. The film conveys a festive sense of the city, implying that magical events may happen in New York. The Devil Wears Prada portrays New York as a hectic yet remarkable city. At first, Andrea (Anne Hathaway) gets stressed by the large amount of work she has to do in the city but soon finds beauty within the hustle and bustle of NYC. Will actual New York give Kingos the same impressions?
Explore the Big Apple
-The Icon, Times Square
With its 50 million annual visitors, Times Square is the hub of entertainment. This junction of 7th Avenue, 42nd Street, and Broadway in Midtown Manhattan makes one of the busiest pedestrian areas in the world. It is full of brightly lit large digital billboards, unique flagship department stores, historic theaters, and shows. The gigantic billboards will greet you as soon as you enter the square, forming an overwhelmingly beautiful sight. Without a doubt, it is an iconic tourist place and a vibrant epicenter of New York. However, Times Square means more than just the “busiest crossway in the world”; it is full of things to do. World- famous Broadway musicals never miss out. From the classic Wicked and The Lion King to the new Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, it will offer Kingos some extraordinary experiences. Normal ticket prices are around $160, but it is worth trying the Broadway ticket lottery that provides tickets for the next day at $50. Besides, shopping in Times Square can be a whole new experience. Here, each store offers unique experiences. For instance, M&M’s World allows visitors to design personalized M&M’s. The wide range of designs will offer Kingos a unique way to cherish memories from New York. If you are a fan of Disney, it is also worth visiting the Disney Store for a brief throwback to your childhood. Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the store is full of the characters’ figures, dolls, and mugs. Times Square also has various restaurants worth trying on the way. Los Tacos No.1, one of the city’s most popular Mexican fare, proposes a wide range of tacos and burritos, perfect for a quick meal.
-A Promenade in the Sky: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Built by New Yorkers, for New Yorkers, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is currently the tallest skyscraper in Midtown. Constructed in 2020, the 93-story building merges art and technology to provide a thrilling scenery of the city. It has become one of the most visited skylines in New York, making it a popular tourist attraction. Therefore, Kingos must purchase tickets online before the visit; a few days in advance is enough. There are three types of tickets, and the most popular one is the SUMMIT Experience package starting from $42. Kingos must be careful not to wear skirts and heels, as the floors will be either mirror or glass, and heels will not be allowed. The journey at SUMMIT starts at the elevator, where you ascend 90 floors in just a few seconds with suspenseful background music and lights. This mini adventure automatically makes the journey feel magical. However, it is too early to be surprised as it is only the start. Once you reach the top floor, magnificent views of NYC will greet you. From the Empire State Building to Central Park, it covers all of New York from a different perspective. Visiting SUMMIT’s signature silver ballroom is another way of enjoying the view of NYC. As the final step of the SUMMIT tour, there is a café named Après with breathtaking views. Why not enjoy some coffee at the top of NYC?
NYC Tourist Checklist
1) Transportation
If you are planning for a trip of seven days or longer, a 7-day unlimited Metro pass will help you guide yourself through the big city.
→ With a total cost of $34, it enables unlimited rides on subways and buses around the city.
→ More than 12 rides will earn you money.
2) Tip culture
Tip culture may be unfamiliar to Kingos, but it is important in the States.
→ About 10-20% of the price is charged as a tip for the waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers and it forms an essential part of their wage.
→ Keep in mind that the total price is composed of the price of goods, tax, and tip.
3) The “Must Know” essentials
The transportation conglomerate application, Uber, is a must in the States.
→ Kingos can simply call a taxi on the phone, which becomes especially useful on the way to the airport.
→ Do not forget that in the case of an emergency, call 911, not 119.
4) The Legal drinking age
If you are 20 or under, drinking is illegal in the U.S.
→ Kingos under 21 are minors in the States and thus will be considered underage drinkers.
“New York, New York, I want to wake up in a city that never sleeps.” New York is undoubtedly a city full of excitement and joy. The culturally gifted city offers countless admiration through its museums, views, and its people, the New Yorkers. It is never too long to explore all sides of the city, from its busy midtown Manhattan to the beautiful views of Brooklyn. Kingos, why not fly to the States next vacation? Do not hesitate to start an adventure in New York. It is guaranteed to be worth it!