If you need to stay in New York City for more than a week or two, such as if you have a work assignment or a family issue to deal with, there are things you should keep in mind. Here is what you need to know about a long-term visit in New York:
Bring clothing that can be good for a variety of weather conditions
If you are in New York, you should be sure to have clothing that can get you through different weather conditions. An umbrella is a must, as is a sweater for cold offices and restaurants, even during the summer. You may never know what you can experience – last October, there was both hot weather and a snowstorm! Layering your clothing can help you meet a variety of conditions as well.
Be prepared to have to stay longer
Speaking of the weather, if an extreme weather condition comes up, you need to be prepared to stay longer than you expected. In the last few years, New York has had several weather events – from the Snowpocalypse to Hurricane Irene to this month’s Frankenstorm – that have caused people visiting to have to stay longer in town. So be prepared with sufficient clothing, money, medication, and whatever you might need if you would have to stay around longer than expected. If you need to get more medication, CVS, Walgreens and Duane Reade are national chains that could transfer or fill your prescriptions.
Buy an extended MetroCard
Taking New York’s buses and subways will save you a lot of money over cab fare, and it will make you feel like a real New Yorker, and not a tourist. You can save even more than the $2.50 single ride MetroCard by buying a MetroCard and putting money on it. Not only will you pay $2.25 a fare, but you will spend even less than that with discounts available on $10 or more for fares. Buying a weekly or monthly unlimited-ride MetroCard can save you even more money. The city’s public transportation system is one of the best in the country. Why not take advantage of it?
Stay in corporate housing
A hotel is fine for a short-term visit, but if you are going to be staying in the city for a month or more, a corporate housing unit is a great option. Not only will you have more room, and feel more like you are living at home, but it is generally more cost-effective.
Save some time for sightseeing
You may never know when you will be in New York again, so you should try to do something other than work or dealing with family issues. There is so much to see and do, and you should make some time to see what makes New York the greatest city in the world. You might as well get the most out of your visit.
Lisa Swan writes for a variety of sites, including KG Furnished.