How to Walk in New York City

Posted by Anonymous , 9/5/2007 Tags:WalkNewYorkCity
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How to Walk in New York City

Introduction

New York City has five boroughs: The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island. When most people think of New York City, they think of Manhattan, which hosts Broadway theater, the Empire State Building and many television shows. Since the roads are difficult to negotiate unless you're a seasoned New York City driver, walking is an efficient way to see everything Manhattan has to offer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Decide what district you want to see. TAWNY (Take a Walk in New York) offers free guided tours of areas in the five boroughs. Visit the website for information on walk dates and meeting places.
2

Step Two

Walk briskly when in Manhattan, and stay to the right. People who live and work there are on the move and don't have time to watch for gawking tourists.
3

Step Three

Move next to a building if you need to stop. Think of it as a roadway on which you wouldn't disrupt traffic by stopping in the middle of the road. NYC walking traffic has a flow and an energy.
4

Step Four

Go with the flow of the foot traffic at intersections; if there aren't any vehicles coming, keep walking. The "Walk" and "Don't Walk" lights seem to be a suggestion in New York City, not a rule.
5

Step Five

Blocking a subway entrance or a door to a building may get you reprimanded the New York City way. Don't be offended, just keep in mind that you are hindering someone's ability to get where he or she is going.

Tips & Warnings

  • Call Big Apple Greeters if you're new to the city. A free tour guide will lead you through the areas you want to see. You'll also get a lesson on negotiating the transit system.
  • Do not suddenly stop in the middle of the sidewalk. New Yorkers don't like dodging obstacles.
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