Geography
New York City is composed of five boroughs. The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
Time Zone
New York City is on Eastern Standard Time (Greenwich mean time minus four hours during daylight saving time, from about mid-March into early November, minus five hours the rest of the year).
International Visitors and Arrivals from
Abroad Visas
Visitors to New York City from outside the United States may need a visa to enter the country. For details, visit the US Department of State’s website.
US Customs and Border Protection
Discover what to expect when arriving from an international destination by watching “You Have Arrived,” a short instructional video; to learn more about the self-service kiosks and app, watch “Global Entry – The Quickest Way Through the Airport!”
Tours and Visitor Passes
New York City Explorer Pass
NYC Tours
Seeing the City by double-decker bus, City-Bike, boat, or helicopter—or just being led on foot by a knowledgeable guide—can make for a memorable trip, and there are convenient, affordable ways to visit all of NYC’s major attractions.
Local Laws
If you’re headed out for a night on the town, you should know that the drinking age in NYC—and throughout the United States—is 21, and smoking is banned in public places throughout the City, including bars, restaurants, subways, and taxis, and public parks and beaches. In NYC, only 21 or older can purchase cigarettes and other tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes.
Useful Phone Numbers
Here are some important phone numbers to keep handy during your NYC visit. Here are some important phone numbers to keep handy during your NYC visit.
• Emergencies (police, fire, or ambulance): 911
• NYC government agencies and any questions or requests about City services (nonemergency): 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (639-9675)
• Directory assistance: 411
• Printed NYC literature: 800-NYC-VISIT (692-84748) or 212-397-8222 (the latter is for international callers only), Mon.–Fri., 7:30 am–5:30 pm CT.
Currency
In New York City and throughout the United States, the dollar is the standard currency. Google converter calculator allows you to determine the value of other currencies compared with the dollar. Below are two of the many places where you can exchange your currency for American dollars.
Associated Foreign Exchange
870 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019; 212-757-9280
805 Third Ave., Ste. 1210, New York, NY 10022; 646-231-7820
Safety
New York is America’s safest large city, but visitors should still use common sense to protect themselves and their property. Be aware of your surroundings, and make sure always to use licensed, reputable businesses for any services you need. For example, don’t hail livery cabs (as opposed to taxis) at the airport, and don’t rent bikes from companies that seem suspicious.
Keep reading
5 New York City Attractions You Should Visit at Least Once
New York City is packed with things to do, but it can be hard to decide what to visit first on a trip to the city. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a frequent visitor, aim for these five iconic attractions to make the most of your stay in New York City.
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