How to Make the Most of Your Trip on the New York City Subway

Navigating the New York City subway system may seem daunting if you are not comfortable with it. The best way to feel comfortable is with familiarity. This article will teach you about the NYC subway so you will be able to ride like a native New Yorker.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Plan your trip from start point to end point and know where you may need to transfer. Main transfer points are: Atlantic Avenue/Pacific Street in Brooklyn and 42nd Street in Manhattan. Here you can pick up almost any line. If you are not familiar with the subway lines, consult the official map:http://www.mta.info/nyct/maps/index.html

2. Have the correct fare. To enter the system, you need to by a Metrocard. The quaint days of tokens are over. Every station has Metrocard machines. You can use cash (bills), debit or credit cards in these machines. Usually about 80% of the machines are working. The fare is $2 per ride. If you are making many trips during a day, but an unlimited pass for $7.50. This will allow you to travel to your heart's content for just $7.50 A seven day unlimited pass is $25 , a 14 day unlimited pass is $47 and a 30 day unlimited ride metrocared is $81. A 15% added value credit is given for all metrocard purchases over $7. Senior citizens and people with disabilities ride for half price. Children under 44 inches ride for free.

3. Walk with confidence and purpose. This is the most important step but step one is a prerequisite for this. Having a confident air will allow you to blend in with other working New Yorkers and will stave off the muggers, beggars and the like.

4. Bring something to read. New Yorkers are a touchy breed and there are a lot of crazies out there. New York is bigger than most cities, so it stands to reason that there are more crazies than elsewhere. Being able to bury your nose in a book or newspaper will avoid eye contact with strangers who may take offense.

5. Pay attention (even though you've got your book or newspaper) and don't miss your stop.

6. Position yourself at the correct end of the platform. Subway stops usually have at least 2 exits. Position yourself at the place on the platform that will let you be at the exit that is closest to your ultimate destination. For example if your destination is 40th Street and 6th Avenue, and you are on a downtown train, positioning yourself at the front of the platform at the station. This will allow you to exit at 40th Street when you disembark at the 42nd Street station. Doing this will save time and will avoid having to walk through (sometimes eerie) tunnels.

7. Hew York City has lots to offer. HAVE FUN!!

Resources

• NYC MTA Site

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on 12/8/2008 What fantastic advise. I will put this in my pocket for my next trip to the big apple!!