HEADING ON A TRIP TO THE BIG APPLE?
By Jason Jourdan
Any time you take a trip to a location either for business or pleasure, there will be many logistical aspects that you need to consider. What to bring, how to get around and where to eat are just some of the decisions you will need to make. Planning the details beforehand is essential for the smoothest trip possible. If you have an upcoming business trip to New York City, then take the time before you go to plan the logistics.
Look up the weather
It is handy to know the weather forecast in order to be comfortably dressed while in New York. According to Budget, the climate in New York City can be enjoyable or harsh, depending on what time of year you plan on visiting. The temperatures rise to a pleasant warmth in the summer but become quite hot in July. The winters are frigid and windy, so brace yourself for the biting cold if you’re planning a trip between December and March. Look up what the weather will be like for the dates of your trip and pack accordingly.
Have some cash for tips and emergencies
While most of your expenses can be handled with a debit or credit card, it is always a good idea to keep cash for the many times you may want to tip drivers, guides, luggage handlers and maids. It is difficult to tip with a plastic card. Aside from that, it is also always a good idea to have a little cash on hand for emergencies and unforeseen events.
Investigate transit systems
New York City has a massive public transit system that consists of subways, buses and trains. You can look up the schedules and routes online and also buy transit passes through the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). All MTA transit is paid for by an MTA card and not by tokens or cash. MTA cards can be purchased ahead of time online or at the terminals.
Check reviews for your outings
It is always a good idea to know as much as possible about the places you intend on visiting before you go. Look up the reviews for restaurants, plays and musical events so that you will know which ones will be the most pleasing. Also be sure to check the prices, because New York City is one the most expensive cities in the world.
Plan your routes
Once you have investigated the transit systems and schedules, take the time to think about not only how to get to your meetings and other important events, but also how to get to restaurants, stores and fun excursions like Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Discover where the nearest transit terminals are to your various locations and calculate how much time is involved in the travel times. Be sure to include the time needed to walk.
Taking a trip to New York is exciting, especially if you can combine business and pleasure. With thoughtful planning, your trip can be stress-free and productive. Knowledge is power and preplanning will allow you to concentrate fully on the business at hand.
Of course, before you decide to go, be sure to consider an insurance travel plan once everything else is set up. This will help give you peace of mind should any go wrong during your time there.
