Getting there

Nearly every airline serves New York from one of three nearby airports: LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy (JFK) or Newark Liberty International (just over the state line in New Jersey). A taxi ride to Manhattan runs about $24–28 from LaGuardia, a flat $45 fee from JFK, and about $84–90 from Newark. These charges do not include tolls and tips. Visit the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s Web site (panynj.gov) for additional transportation options.

Getting around

Locals and savvy visitors know that the best way to get around the city is via its extensive, convenient subway system (mta.info). Purchase a MetroCard at kiosks in most stations or at certain newsstands and convenience stores. Individual rides run $2, but multi-ride cards are also available. Yellow taxis are usually plentiful, but be sure to accept rides only from cabs displaying the New York City Taxi and Limousine medallions on their hoods. Fares start out at $2.50 on entry, and are metered from there. A ride from downtown to midtown costs about $10, including tip, which should be about 20 percent of the metered fare.