An aerial view of New York City. Credit: jerryfergusonphotography.
By Steve Jermanok
While based in New York, which I called home for over a decade, one of my goals was to live as affordably as possible. Living on a writer’s salary, I had no choice. A common misconception is that this city of dreams is only for the rich. That’s simply not true. You can see the flashing neon lights of Times Square, rest your weary legs on the Central Park’s Great Lawn (perfect for a picnic), and grab a Staten Island ferry with requisite views of the Statue of Liberty, more or less all for free. If you’re taking a New York City trip, I’m the best guy to give you advice on inexpensive activities and cheap New York hotels.
There’s no need to waste money on taxis when the public transit system in NYC is one of the finest on the planet. And you never have to wait long for a subway, especially when you’re traveling up and down the West and East sides of Manhattan. Though fares are only $2, I suggest buying a MetroCard, which allows you to switch from bus to train for free. A one-day card will set you back $7.50, while the 7-day MetroCard costs only $25.
