Keep walking and other New York City, NY Local Custom Tips

I know NYC is overwhelming, but do yourself and the locals a favor. If you are lost, step to the side (preferably to the right, or the inside of the sidewalk). Don't stop in the middle of the sidewalk and stand there. You will become the equivalent of a road block and will seriously impede all foot traffic behind you. You may be on vacation, but for the other 8 million people who live here, we are trying to get somewhere. Also, don't be afraid to ask someone for directions or to orient you (which way to Park Avenue?). NYers are quite friendly and willing to help. Just don't slow us down! :)

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When using the subway system, keep in mind that you will have ample time to get on and off a train. There is no need to stand directly in front of the doors, blocking everyone from getting on and off. Before stepping onto a train, allow passengers to get off first. This will make things much easier for everyone involved. Don't worry -- the conductors are watching and know when people are still trying to get on and off. Also, please don't hug the poles in the cars -- they're meant for several people to grab onto when the train is moving. Step as far into the car as possible to allow others on. There will be plenty of time for you to exit when your stop arrives. If you've got lots of bags or a big backpack, try to take up as little space as possible. In fact, it recently became a violation for anyone to put their feet up on the seats or to place bags onto seats next to them. Finally, if the train is so crowded that you can't get on unless you push and shove your way, just wait for the next train. The subways all run only a few minutes apart from each other. The train following the one that is overpacked is sure to have more room on it.

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Website: http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us/nyct/subway/howto.htm

In case you haven't heard, NYC became smoke-free in 2003, meaning you cannot smoke indoors in any establishment. No matter what...monsoon, blizzard, scorching heat...if you want a smoke you have to stand outside on the sidewalk.

Also, as archaic as it sounds (especially for NYC), you may NOT dance in any bar/restaurant/lounge. Dancing is only permitted in certain establishments that have been issued a cabaret license - so most dancing will be limited to night clubs. That means no dancing in a bar to a DJ or jukebox, no dancing while seeing a band perform...it's ludicrous and Mayor Bloomberg is working to have the law repealed, but as of now, don't assume that you can dance anytime you hear music. Management, or a bouncer, more likely, will probably tap you on the shoulder and kindly ask you to refrain. In fact, my girlfriends and I have been told to stop "dancing" while we were sitting on bar stools grooving and listening to music at a bar. Bet you didn't know that NYC was like that backwards town in the movie "Footloose"?!

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