Would you consider the Bronx Zoo a good spot to see, I have never been to a zoo before and NYC zoos are famous? I am visiting your City later in the year and your videos are the best on YT. thnx so much.
Tipping culture is getting ridiculous in US, and service workers are always getting mad at people who they "think" is tipping too little or don't tip at all. But really they should be blaming their company/owners who aren't paying them a fair living wage and they "need" tips. There's also an incorrect notion that tip is "expected" for some professions even if the service itself is mediocre or lousy. I would say to tourist to just tip when they feel they are getting something extra/special beyond what they are paying for, or that they received excellent service or experience, or they are requesting something different/beyond what other customers are paying for.
If people in the service industry does their job the way they were trained, the boss should give them incentives. If they do MORE or beyond or put an extra mile to deliver the customer needs, then they deserved a tip.
This is horrible advice. When I travel to other countries, I learn about their customs ahead of time and do my best to behave like a local. If you're visiting the US, factor tips into your budget. If you can't afford to tip 20% at a restaurant, then you shouldn't be traveling to NYC. Now, if you receive very poor or rude service, let a manager know and just leave a few extra dollars.
I’m just back from my honeymoon this morning. I absolutely LOVED New York. Never felt unsafe once and we walked EVERYWHERE day and night. Only negative thing was how expensive the place was but that was to be expected. Some places also try to rip tourists off but you can suss them out quite easily. Ive fell in love with the place. Going to make a video on my visit soon
I will visit NY for the first time in april, and my hotel is near Hudson yards... I got tickets to the Phanton of the Opera and I don't know if it will safe me and my husband walk to the Majestic in 44th street. It will be just 15 minutes if we will go by foot but there are parts of the 10 th avenue near the Lincoln zone which seems to me dangerous...Anybody from New York can give me an advice?
As someone who visited NYC regularly in the 90's, and who has just returned, I can assure everyone that it is not in decline. On the contrary, the place is a lot cleaner than I remember it - certainly around the main tourist spots. I would agree with what John says - the sheer volume of people around at all times makes it feel, and be, a lot safer than many other places both in the US and abroad. Sure, the subway is a bit dirty and you WILL come across quite a few "characters" when walking around but, hey, that is part of the city's charm. Go. Enjoy and soak it all up. However, do take LOTS of money - the place is very, very expensive! Worth it though..
Subway a bit dirty....that's the understatement of the century, its fucking shocking. I was there this January forna visit having lived in New York from 99-01 and simply couldn't believe the state of the place. People shooting up on the Subway, homeless junkies everywhere, the JFK skytrain station from the Bronx is a homeless hostel now with dozens of crazed junkies living there, people selling candy on the Subway like some third world city all the while the NYPD seem to be in hiding. Personally I won't return until its sorted out, as an aside every local I spoke to thought the place was fucked up aswell
I lived here 62 years and the city is worst than in the 80s during the stinkin Dinkins years, crime, homelessness , no bail laws, and Manhattan DA Bragg who doesn’t prosecute criminals. What makes it bad is the leftist leadership , that isn’t looking to solve problems , but add more
As someone who splits their time between Philadelphia (80 miles from NYC) and NYC, I can tell you the open drug use, homelessness and crime overall is way worse in Philly. That city has a huge gun violence and fentanyl problem that is well documented. No neighborhood, no matter how nice is immune. NYC is a much safer place.
I used to live in the city of brotherly HATE! It was the biggest mistake in my life! It's a dirty depressing miserable city and its people are rude impersonal and hostile!
When my husband and I were in NYC for the first time in May of 2022, we walked into the Chrysler building (it's my absolute favorite, so gorgeous!!) Lobby security immediately came for us and chased us out, like to the point that I cried. 🤣 We had even googled before we went and saw that they do have hours open to the public, because we wanted to be positive it was okay to go in. After that, I asked one of my travel groups and the overwhelming majority of people said nobody is ever allowed in unless you have a meeting. I'm going back this year and I will be trying it again!
@jeremywilcox4251 I did just see that after looking into it more!! I'm so bummed! Hopefully one day they'll have an observation deck or change their policy. The little glance I got was breathtaking!
Yeah I was really disappointed. As a huge fan of Art Deco, I was most excited to see the inside of the Chrysler building and out of every building in NYC, the security there were borderline aggressive!!; almost about to physically shove me out the door. It really put a downer on the while experience...
I e lived in NY For 28 years since I was 8 years old and the quality of life here has definitely worsened in the last 3 years! I’ve never seen so many homeless people and it’s not as safe as before I hope the city officials do something about it
Flushing has a heavier concentration of Cantonese, which is where you wanna go for dim sum. Spot on. But Manhattan Chinatown also has Pings, whose dim sum is also pretty darn spectacular.
Homelessness for anyone who’s visiting after the pandemic or a little before the pandemic would think it’s up because it’s more viable now for many reasons. Pre pandemic homelessness was always up but it was less visible because significantly more people were commuting/ traveling everyday. Since Feb pandemic a lot of people are remotely working so you’re just seeing less people doing day to day things and more homeless people. During and after the pandemic however a lot of hotels in NYC houses homeless people for almost 3 years. Now that does programs are over with people have gone back to the street, subway and sidewalk
Came to the US six months ago and living in LA right now. Still miss your videos and came to see you time to time. I think I am going to relocate to NY soon! Love your content as always💜Arigato
NYC is one of the world's great places. But I visited last November and one thing that I noticed had changed from pre-pandemic was the overwhelming scent of weed on almost every block
Every big city, especially ones with a lot of tourists, have "homeless". That's because they get the most amenities and begging opportunities. I've also heard of other locations transporting them. And, you know, you usually see vast majority of them are men who are alcoholics, drug users, etc. It's a constant battle for cities. So anyone who thinks I'm being mean. When do you see these folks out in sparely populated rural areas? I'll be going back in a few weeks, so I will see if things are any worse than the last time.
It's not just a New York issue, my home city Belfast NI has definitely the same issues going on, most if not all major cities especially since the pandemic seem to have gotten worse, alot of people are getting it tough and should be shown empathy not contempt.
I first went to New York in 2009 and then again last week. I have to say i think the homelessness was worse in 2009 than now. May be wrong though. We did have a scary experience though when getting the subway subway back to JFK early morning at 42nd Street-PABT. There were a number of homeless guys, obviously mentally disturbed, on the platform behaving very aggressively to tourists, who were pretty scared. What was annoying was there were 4 NYPD Police Officers that walked straight past and didn’t intervene. Also, the entire city now appears to smell of cannabis which a lot of people find really unpleasant.
My Australian sisters travel the subway even to Harlem. I really don't like the tipping culture. I have experience with waitresses telling me the amount my tip should be or basically demanding the change as the tip when the amount of change is a lot more than 20%. The waitress was not doing above service, she charged us items we never got. My sister was abused by a person who didn't agree on the amount of the tip. I would be interested in seeing you testing the tipping culture with a tourist with a different accent and see if the person is treated differently
I got kicked out of a comedy show because of a stupid waiter thinking i disrespected her. The only thing i told this women was the drinks i wanted. They forced me to pay for drinks i never received and tip her for drinks she never brought or they would call the police on me. After the show she apologized to my friends for the misunderstanding while I waited out side.
@@dogfacedponysoldier5971 It's not legal law to tip in NYC 🗽 I find it strange how many tourists wrongly think you legally have to tip in NYC! I'm visiting NYC in September. I'll only tip if I feel like it or get better service than in my own city 💵
I think your right. I don't think it's legal but that's what they used to do. Don't tip anyone unless they deserve it and only if your feeling generous. Enjoy your visit and stay safe.
if i have a good experience at a restaurant, sure i'll tip 10% or 20% if it's really amazing. if i'm just getting coffee and a cookie someone just handed to me at some cafe, no i'm not tipping.
Very important check MTA service advisory for updated service changes. Especially during weekends and nights there are often changes in train schedules and some linres not running atvall. Also should check if stop is local or express-this also changes during the day ,nights abd weekends
Me and my family were just in NYC. Heres what I saw We spent all our time in Midtown around Rockefeller and Times SQ. I didn’t see many homeless people in the area. For good Italian food, if you want to go fancy, Carmines is great, or if you just want spaghetti and meatballs, pasta lovers steps from Rockefeller Center is also really amazing too. The Summit was also really amazing, and everything was fun for us. Can’t wait to return
From Connecticut. I travel to nyc often due to how easy it is. It’s a big city like it’s own country. It’s very unique and complicated and confusing. I use to just go to timesquare then I began to just go to other parts of nyc. Explore alone. Good times
I just got back from a 5 day trip staying midtown Manhattan. The place as a bit of a dump if I am honest. Rubbish everywhere, bad roads and pavements etc. Some areas were much better than others, but my general impression was that nobody gave a shit. Although, that doesn't mean it's not a great city, because it is. We felt safe and the Subway was great.
Been to roughly half all major cities since 2020, NYC is in great shape when you compare it to many others. It's also been in worse shape. I think it'll be fine :)
NYC was in a bad decline during the start of the pandemic going into late 2021, maybe early 2022ish. As someone who goes into Manhattan somewhat regularly on weekends and into the office once a week, I can say that Manhattan has improved significantly and is almost at 2019 levels of hustle and bustle. I don't think we have all of the office workers back, but we have a lot, in addition to tourists and WFH employees who want to go out and socialize. Queens and Brooklyn didn't suffer as much during he pandemic while growing significantly in popularity since 2020. Overall, I'd say NYC is as popular as ever, but the popularity has been more evenly distributed between 3 boroughs.
i think i can agree, the ony thing that would bring NYC back to 2019 is removing these outside graffiti "restaurants" boxes. They're standing in the middle of the sidle walk or a road (sometimes both), which is too much for already small streets. Genueally don't understand how people like them, especially since we can eat inside the restaurants now.
I really enjoy how you mix it up in your videos. Travel tips have always been great but this one gives us a different perspective as only you can put out there. Always learning something new and it makes me appreciate my time in NYC even more. Especially because to me NYC is more than the tourist trap highlights (although I have enjoyed those). I loved your comments about the people and the things that make New York what it is. Thanks for this as always.
Another quality video from the best New York City YouTubber and guide. Jon never makes a bad video. If you are new to his videos just keep following him and watching the. Very honest and doesn’t pretend everything is wonderful and perfect about New York but also sticks up this great City. His suggestions are always very practical and very easy for people to relate to. This type of Q&A video was excellent. I am visiting again in April for the 7th time but first time since the Pandemic and I am so looking forward to it. I do have concerns as the media seem to drive certain stories down people’s throats but I stick by what Jon says. A person living on the ground who doesn’t do BS. I feel anyone can trust what he is saying. My family and I will be able to judge NYC for ourselves in April. Nice work again Jon.
I am born and raised in NY lived here for 43 years this isn't new to anyone who went through the 80's and early 90's. So it's fear mongering from people who never lived the worse here. This isn't bad to anyone who lived the homelessness and drugs from those other decades.
@awsomeboy360 one example - Brooklyn 1979 or 1980 my old 1975 Dodge Dart parked on a street - battery were stolen not once(I put a lock on a hood, not enough it was stolen second time)😁😄😊
I just visited NYC and he’s really downplaying the drug issue in NYC. We stayed in midtown Manhattan and oh my goodness! There were people smoking weed on practically every street (regardless day or night). Also this tipping culture is very annoying! Especially when 99% of servers are sooooo moody. However, it’s one of those places that you need to see at least once. Wouldn’t rush back though.
When we were there we did a variation of walking, Uber and the subway, mostly walking though. We also got a three day pass on the Big Bus tours just to get a ride to where we were going and because they stop at 430-5p, we’d end up walking back to our hotel. One day we went down to the WTC Memorial, walked to Bleeker Street Pizza 😋 continued our walk to Times Square where we stopped for a slice of cheesecake 😋 at Juniors then on to our hotel which was on 79th and Amsterdam. I was just so into my surroundings that it hardly felt like I had did over 25K steps that day alone. In total, we walked 52 miles from Sunday - Sunday! Was able to walk off all the delicious local NY food we indulged in 😊
That is crap news. I have truly enjoyed him on your channel. I've donated. Only 25 but if everyone throws in a few bucks, we can definitely get the guy where he needs to be. Get well soon Ben. This channel might start to suck without you.
My pick for best tourist attraction in NYC is always the Circle Line Tour around Manhattan. It's the best tourist thing I have ever done anywhere, best three hours you'll ever spend.
Definitely the tipping makes me nervous. Because I travel on a low Budget so out of respect, I rather not go to a place that is mandatory to tip because its not on my budget to add 20% more, really. So I just rather not go then. So I can respect that culture.
I just came back from Australia and New Zealand, no tipping culture there. My understanding is that it's because the servers actually make a living wage. There's not even room on many receipts to place a tip, and at a lounge at the Sydney airport, I tried to tip after ordering drinks, and the kind bartender rejected accepting my tip. I think our tipping culture is a very American thing
I’ve been there so many times before covid and now after covid. I walked all Manhattan, parte of Brooklyn and bronx. Used metro in many Different areas of NYC I do not notice any difference from before. Unfortunately there are many homeless peoples as always did. But I think the city grown in terms of touristic attractions
I just visited Manhattan last week for the first time since 2015 and loads of places felt like it could do with a good power hose. As much as I try to avoid it something really needs done with times square as it's just gross and those fake characters need purged Also the whole place stunk like weed which wasn't great when I was travelling with young kids. Although new York still has its charm despite the bad bits which are there in every city.
I'm gonna be honest bro when I went in the summer I saw a lot of mfs doped up in the subways, had one scream that he was gonna shoot me and 3 others nearby, and had one dude on Molly tell me the meaning of life on a 5am train ride. Had a great time but for my first solo trip it was pretty wild lol
People should have been in NYC in the ‘70s through the early ‘90s. The place was a mess. Not to dismiss today’s issue, the city had hit bottom. Yes, things are tough now, however, it’s way better than years ago.
As for current Broadway shows, Kimberly Akimbo, MJ the Musical, and Parade are my favorites in that order. The subway system can be confusing and intimidate visitors, but you won't learn and appreciate them without trying. Jon has many how-to use the subway videos. Also, Thea of Urbane Caffeine does a good job explaining the system. It really is a great way to get around the city, especially Manhattan.
I only tip for skill or labor based services such as nail/hair salon, furniture movers, servers at restaurants, sandwich makers, baristas, hotel concierge, etc…. I do NOT tip for retail services like shop cashiers
My husband and I are visiting april 3rd to the 7th, we are really excited. We are from Chicago, but its always fun to explore another city. We have tickets for the Yankees vs Phillies game on Tuesday the 5th and tickets for Michael Jackson the musical on Wednesday the 6th. Unfortunately there are a lot of problems in a lot of US cities and towns due to government corruption, inflation and trying to get back normal post pandemic. It'll take time, we'll get there. Looking forward to seeing NYC again, it's been 23 years for me and 30 for my husband.
I am retired, and plan on spending a month in NYC. I was thinking a residential hotel would be more cost-effective. No deposit, free Wi-Fi, no electric bill don't have to buy cleaning supplies and free TV all included. I debated on possibly moving to New York for a year. What are your thoughts of staying in a hotel versus renting. Given all the amenities a hotel provides. Plus they also would clean your room. Granted I see the difference of having your individual space. Was not so many random people coming in and out. But you'd have the security of a doorman per se
Just got back from my 20something~th trip to NYC. regarding restrooms, believe it or not Central Park has a brand new restroom on west corner near Columbus Circle called the Merchant's Gate comfort station. It's always been there but this was the first time I've seen it open!
My first and hopefully not last visit was in August 2022. The best 10 days of our lives. What a city! It lived up to the massive hype, and we still have a lot left to explore and discover. It is VERY expensive, but worth it. Love NYC!♥️🇺🇸
I think that you have a positive view of the city and are Not totally wrong. Flushing has overshadowed Chinatown which is shrinking. Transit hubs are good for the bathroom minus Penn Station. I don’t think people will help because they are in their phone. Never knew Chrysler has an observation deck and I work across the street. The Highbridge, City Island and Grand Concourse for the Bronx are hidden gems!!!
Unfortunately, Chrysler Building security guards no longer allow the public inside to see their beautiful lobby ( and they’re not particularly pleasant about it).
New York City began a steep decline well before the pandemic hit. Unfortunately, the ongoing pandemic has made things even worse. Things will improve over the next few years and the magic will absolutely return. It will just take longer than we would all like. As always, appreciate your videos.
I also saw Jeff Daniels perform in to kill a mockingbird.. Love that one too but my favorite Broadway shows I saw down on Broadway was American buffalo, beetlejuice, book of mormon, and wicked!
I was just in .Vegas. Its in decline IMO. Its like a bit better version of .Atlantic City, which is no compliment. I stayed at a top rated hotel and room service didn’t even answer the phone x 2. The streets are terrible. Panhandlers all over the place. Prices have skyrocketed. Really sad tbh. I hope NYC isn’t the same. Have not returned since pre covid.
I think your analysis is spot on. It gets more attention now, because social media and everyone with a smartphone has the ability to photograph it. I just got back from Bozeman/Big Sky, Montana -- and shockingly, there was a fair amount of homelessness, panhandling and vagrants there too. Prices there have gotten out of control -- sound familiar? This is a nationwide... maybe even a worldwide problem. It's on us as a society to fix. I think your answer about people is the best part of NYC. I truly do miss native New Yorkers. They can be very abrupt, but in times of need, the most helpful people you'll encounter. I don't get that in Boston.
I went to 371 East 10th Street off Tompkins Park in 2012, the center the drug area known as Alphabet City, to visit the building where Disney child star and Academy Award Winner died. I walked through Tompkins Park from one end to the other. People were friendly and helpful. So, proving, folklore isn't always right.
If you are in Central Park, there are washrooms outside of the Boathouse Restaurant near Bethesda Fountain (btw the current rumors are that the Boathouse Restaurant will be reopening at some point). There's also washrooms at the Delacorte Theater by Belvedere Castle and by the steps at Bethesda Fountain (leading towards the Mall). About tipping & cash: have small amounts of cash on hand with you ($1 bills, $5 bills, $10s) for smaller tips and for places which take cash only. I was surprised that many places in NYC are still cash only, or only take cash tips.
I have two questions for your next Q&A video. Where are the best locations for theater not located on Broadway (so, I guess the actual question would be where are the best off-Broadway locations?). And is there a theater district in Brooklyn?
I understand you want to be positive about NYC but you can’t really tell me with a straight face that it is safe. People are leaving not just crime but the high expenses of living there. Yea it’s a mega city with a great variety but it’s not as safe as it was before the pandemic. And it’s even more expensive.
Watched a lot of your vids in preparation for a quick 2 day trip for work and enjoyed all you had to say and offer. Rode the subway everywhere and felt like a pro! Checked out NY Pizza Suprema also thanks to your Rec. enjoy your videos!
Coming back for four days in the end of September for the first time in 12 years! So very excited to reconnect with where I came from after almost thirty five years out here in SoCal…if I remember correctly, it’s still generally nice but not TOO cool in late September, yes?
Lol, strength in numbers. Old man gets his hair set on fire on the Subway, younger man objects and gets beaten while the rest of the brave new Yorkers turn a blind eye. They seem to think being accepting of living in a violent city makes them cool. It doesn't. It just makes them compassionless and hoping to not be the next victim.
Everywhere is in decline in the US, less education, lower wages, inflation, addictions, more people not working than working, 40% working cant carry the other 60%. That was the turning point unless that changes the government can't just keep giving out money to keep people fed that they don't want to do for themselves. The tax revenue just isn't there anymore.
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Would you consider the Bronx Zoo a good spot to see, I have never been to a zoo before and NYC zoos are famous? I am visiting your City later in the year and your videos are the best on YT. thnx so much.
Tipping culture is getting ridiculous in US, and service workers are always getting mad at people who they "think" is tipping too little or don't tip at all. But really they should be blaming their company/owners who aren't paying them a fair living wage and they "need" tips. There's also an incorrect notion that tip is "expected" for some professions even if the service itself is mediocre or lousy. I would say to tourist to just tip when they feel they are getting something extra/special beyond what they are paying for, or that they received excellent service or experience, or they are requesting something different/beyond what other customers are paying for.
Yep. Scrooge employers need to pay their staff a decent rate to begin with.
Agreeded
If people in the service industry does their job the way they were trained, the boss should give them incentives. If they do MORE or beyond or put an extra mile to deliver the customer needs, then they deserved a tip.
This is horrible advice. When I travel to other countries, I learn about their customs ahead of time and do my best to behave like a local. If you're visiting the US, factor tips into your budget. If you can't afford to tip 20% at a restaurant, then you shouldn't be traveling to NYC. Now, if you receive very poor or rude service, let a manager know and just leave a few extra dollars.
@@austinjohnson2797 Hogwash.
I’m just back from my honeymoon this morning. I absolutely LOVED New York. Never felt unsafe once and we walked EVERYWHERE day and night. Only negative thing was how expensive the place was but that was to be expected. Some places also try to rip tourists off but you can suss them out quite easily.
Ive fell in love with the place.
Going to make a video on my visit soon
I will visit NY for the first time in april, and my hotel is near Hudson yards... I got tickets to the Phanton of the Opera and I don't know if it will safe me and my husband walk to the Majestic in 44th street. It will be just 15 minutes if we will go by foot but there are parts of the 10 th avenue near the Lincoln zone which seems to me dangerous...Anybody from New York can give me an advice?
I am from Queens. We have THEE Best food b/c we have the most diverse communities and languages spoken.
As someone who visited NYC regularly in the 90's, and who has just returned, I can assure everyone that it is not in decline. On the contrary, the place is a lot cleaner than I remember it - certainly around the main tourist spots. I would agree with what John says - the sheer volume of people around at all times makes it feel, and be, a lot safer than many other places both in the US and abroad. Sure, the subway is a bit dirty and you WILL come across quite a few "characters" when walking around but, hey, that is part of the city's charm. Go. Enjoy and soak it all up. However, do take LOTS of money - the place is very, very expensive! Worth it though..
Expensive indeed
Subway a bit dirty....that's the understatement of the century, its fucking shocking. I was there this January forna visit having lived in New York from 99-01 and simply couldn't believe the state of the place. People shooting up on the Subway, homeless junkies everywhere, the JFK skytrain station from the Bronx is a homeless hostel now with dozens of crazed junkies living there, people selling candy on the Subway like some third world city all the while the NYPD seem to be in hiding. Personally I won't return until its sorted out, as an aside every local I spoke to thought the place was fucked up aswell
The city is in major decline, you are blind. Crime, homelessness, dirt, leftist city council and leftist democrat state leaders are ruining the city.
I lived here 62 years and the city is worst than in the 80s during the stinkin Dinkins years, crime, homelessness , no bail laws, and Manhattan DA Bragg who doesn’t prosecute criminals. What makes it bad is the leftist leadership , that isn’t looking to solve problems , but add more
I have lived there since 1992 it’s in decline. You are a tourist
I’ve been 4 times in New York in the last 12 months, i love it and planning to go back. Thank you Jon for this videos they have helped a lot
For bathrooms you should remember that Rockefeller Center has plenty of restrooms for the public in the concourse level.
As someone who splits their time between Philadelphia (80 miles from NYC) and NYC, I can tell you the open drug use, homelessness and crime overall is way worse in Philly. That city has a huge gun violence and fentanyl problem that is well documented. No neighborhood, no matter how nice is immune. NYC is a much safer place.
I used to live in the city of brotherly HATE! It was the biggest mistake in my life! It's a dirty depressing miserable city and its people are rude impersonal and hostile!
Jon I agree. To Kill A Mockingbird was the best non musical Broadway play I have ever seen. I was so sad it closed as I recommended it to everyone.
When my husband and I were in NYC for the first time in May of 2022, we walked into the Chrysler building (it's my absolute favorite, so gorgeous!!)
Lobby security immediately came for us and chased us out, like to the point that I cried. 🤣
We had even googled before we went and saw that they do have hours open to the public, because we wanted to be positive it was okay to go in. After that, I asked one of my travel groups and the overwhelming majority of people said nobody is ever allowed in unless you have a meeting.
I'm going back this year and I will be trying it again!
Unfortunately their policy has not changed... visitors still not allowed.
@jeremywilcox4251 I did just see that after looking into it more!! I'm so bummed! Hopefully one day they'll have an observation deck or change their policy. The little glance I got was breathtaking!
Yeah I was really disappointed. As a huge fan of Art Deco, I was most excited to see the inside of the Chrysler building and out of every building in NYC, the security there were borderline aggressive!!; almost about to physically shove me out the door. It really put a downer on the while experience...
I e lived in NY For 28 years since I was 8 years old and the quality of life here has definitely worsened in the last 3 years! I’ve never seen so many homeless people and it’s not as safe as before I hope the city officials do something about it
Flushing has a heavier concentration of Cantonese, which is where you wanna go for dim sum. Spot on. But Manhattan Chinatown also has Pings, whose dim sum is also pretty darn spectacular.
Thanks for sharing!
Homelessness for anyone who’s visiting after the pandemic or a little before the pandemic would think it’s up because it’s more viable now for many reasons. Pre pandemic homelessness was always up but it was less visible because significantly more people were commuting/ traveling everyday. Since Feb pandemic a lot of people are remotely working so you’re just seeing less people doing day to day things and more homeless people. During and after the pandemic however a lot of hotels in NYC houses homeless people for almost 3 years. Now that does programs are over with people have gone back to the street, subway and sidewalk
Came to the US six months ago and living in LA right now. Still miss your videos and came to see you time to time. I think I am going to relocate to NY soon! Love your content as always💜Arigato
NYC is one of the world's great places. But I visited last November and one thing that I noticed had changed from pre-pandemic was the overwhelming scent of weed on almost every block
Every big city, especially ones with a lot of tourists, have "homeless". That's because they get the most amenities and begging opportunities. I've also heard of other locations transporting them. And, you know, you usually see vast majority of them are men who are alcoholics, drug users, etc. It's a constant battle for cities. So anyone who thinks I'm being mean. When do you see these folks out in sparely populated rural areas? I'll be going back in a few weeks, so I will see if things are any worse than the last time.
It's not just a New York issue, my home city Belfast NI has definitely the same issues going on, most if not all major cities especially since the pandemic seem to have gotten worse, alot of people are getting it tough and should be shown empathy not contempt.
FYI, I work as a bellman in a hotel. Tipping 2 dollars per bag is considered a standard for tipping.
🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 thanks for clarifying
I first went to New York in 2009 and then again last week. I have to say i think the homelessness was worse in 2009 than now. May be wrong though. We did have a scary experience though when getting the subway subway back to JFK early morning at 42nd Street-PABT. There were a number of homeless guys, obviously mentally disturbed, on the platform behaving very aggressively to tourists, who were pretty scared. What was annoying was there were 4 NYPD Police Officers that walked straight past and didn’t intervene. Also, the entire city now appears to smell of cannabis which a lot of people find really unpleasant.
My Australian sisters travel the subway even to Harlem. I really don't like the tipping culture. I have experience with waitresses telling me the amount my tip should be or basically demanding the change as the tip when the amount of change is a lot more than 20%. The waitress was not doing above service, she charged us items we never got. My sister was abused by a person who didn't agree on the amount of the tip. I would be interested in seeing you testing the tipping culture with a tourist with a different accent and see if the person is treated differently
I got kicked out of a comedy show because of a stupid waiter thinking i disrespected her. The only thing i told this women was the drinks i wanted. They forced me to pay for drinks i never received and tip her for drinks she never brought or they would call the police on me. After the show she apologized to my friends for the misunderstanding while I waited out side.
@@dogfacedponysoldier5971 It's not legal law to tip in NYC 🗽 I find it strange how many tourists wrongly think you legally have to tip in NYC!
I'm visiting NYC in September. I'll only tip if I feel like it or get better service than in my own city 💵
I think your right. I don't think it's legal but that's what they used to do. Don't tip anyone unless they deserve it and only if your feeling generous. Enjoy your visit and stay safe.
if i have a good experience at a restaurant, sure i'll tip 10% or 20% if it's really amazing. if i'm just getting coffee and a cookie someone just handed to me at some cafe, no i'm not tipping.
Very important check MTA service advisory for updated service changes. Especially during weekends and nights there are often changes in train schedules and some linres not running atvall. Also should check if stop is local or express-this also changes during the day ,nights abd weekends
Me and my family were just in NYC. Heres what I saw
We spent all our time in Midtown around Rockefeller and Times SQ. I didn’t see many homeless people in the area. For good Italian food, if you want to go fancy, Carmines is great, or if you just want spaghetti and meatballs, pasta lovers steps from Rockefeller Center is also really amazing too. The Summit was also really amazing, and everything was fun for us. Can’t wait to return
From Connecticut. I travel to nyc often due to how easy it is. It’s a big city like it’s own country. It’s very unique and complicated and confusing. I use to just go to timesquare then I began to just go to other parts of nyc. Explore alone. Good times
I just got here to Manhattan for the first time . I’m really excited .
I just got back from a 5 day trip staying midtown Manhattan. The place as a bit of a dump if I am honest. Rubbish everywhere, bad roads and pavements etc. Some areas were much better than others, but my general impression was that nobody gave a shit. Although, that doesn't mean it's not a great city, because it is. We felt safe and the Subway was great.
I used to visit NYC regularly in the 90s and it was WAY worse back then. It’s extremely safe now for a mega city.
Been to roughly half all major cities since 2020, NYC is in great shape when you compare it to many others. It's also been in worse shape. I think it'll be fine :)
NYC was in a bad decline during the start of the pandemic going into late 2021, maybe early 2022ish. As someone who goes into Manhattan somewhat regularly on weekends and into the office once a week, I can say that Manhattan has improved significantly and is almost at 2019 levels of hustle and bustle. I don't think we have all of the office workers back, but we have a lot, in addition to tourists and WFH employees who want to go out and socialize. Queens and Brooklyn didn't suffer as much during he pandemic while growing significantly in popularity since 2020. Overall, I'd say NYC is as popular as ever, but the popularity has been more evenly distributed between 3 boroughs.
i think i can agree, the ony thing that would bring NYC back to 2019 is removing these outside graffiti "restaurants" boxes. They're standing in the middle of the sidle walk or a road (sometimes both), which is too much for already small streets. Genueally don't understand how people like them, especially since we can eat inside the restaurants now.
I really enjoy how you mix it up in your videos. Travel tips have always been great but this one gives us a different perspective as only you can put out there. Always learning something new and it makes me appreciate my time in NYC even more. Especially because to me NYC is more than the tourist trap highlights (although I have enjoyed those). I loved your comments about the people and the things that make New York what it is. Thanks for this as always.
Another quality video from the best New York City YouTubber and guide. Jon never makes a bad video. If you are new to his videos just keep following him and watching the. Very honest and doesn’t pretend everything is wonderful and perfect about New York but also sticks up this great City. His suggestions are always very practical and very easy for people to relate to. This type of Q&A video was excellent. I am visiting again in April for the 7th time but first time since the Pandemic and I am so looking forward to it. I do have concerns as the media seem to drive certain stories down people’s throats but I stick by what Jon says. A person living on the ground who doesn’t do BS. I feel anyone can trust what he is saying. My family and I will be able to judge NYC for ourselves in April.
Nice work again Jon.
I love to do food videos while smoking weed on my CZcams channel, to cure people’s boredom 💀
@@SevenHunnid What do you mean?
John O'Leary, what a great comment you made about Jon. I agree with you 100%.
I am born and raised in NY lived here for 43 years this isn't new to anyone who went through the 80's and early 90's. So it's fear mongering from people who never lived the worse here. This isn't bad to anyone who lived the homelessness and drugs from those other decades.
I really appreciate that you try to be very conscious on certain topics not to offend
Very easy to offend in 2023…
People always say this and than look at NYC in the 70's, 80's, and 90's. How bad it truly was back then.
@awsomeboy360 one example - Brooklyn 1979 or 1980 my old 1975 Dodge Dart parked on a street - battery were stolen not once(I put a lock on a hood, not enough it was stolen second time)😁😄😊
@@awsomeboy360
@@FErgersonn THE GREAT changing your name?😊😁😄😬😃😹😆😑😐🤗
All the los heads say it's way worse these days
I just visited NYC and he’s really downplaying the drug issue in NYC. We stayed in midtown Manhattan and oh my goodness! There were people smoking weed on practically every street (regardless day or night). Also this tipping culture is very annoying! Especially when 99% of servers are sooooo moody. However, it’s one of those places that you need to see at least once. Wouldn’t rush back though.
weed is legal
Weed isn’t really considered ‘doing drugs’ in cities where it is legal. It’s almost like smoking cigarettes.
When we were there we did a variation of walking, Uber and the subway, mostly walking though. We also got a three day pass on the Big Bus tours just to get a ride to where we were going and because they stop at 430-5p, we’d end up walking back to our hotel. One day we went down to the WTC Memorial, walked to Bleeker Street Pizza 😋 continued our walk to Times Square where we stopped for a slice of cheesecake 😋 at Juniors then on to our hotel which was on 79th and Amsterdam. I was just so into my surroundings that it hardly felt like I had did over 25K steps that day alone. In total, we walked 52 miles from Sunday - Sunday! Was able to walk off all the delicious local NY food we indulged in 😊
Please do not miss @I Love Paraguay Restaurant, in Queens
Unfortunately homelessness is a big problem in all our major cities in Canada like Toronto Montreal Vancouver and even Victoria as well
That is crap news. I have truly enjoyed him on your channel. I've donated. Only 25 but if everyone throws in a few bucks, we can definitely get the guy where he needs to be. Get well soon Ben. This channel might start to suck without you.
There is also a tunnel in the middle of the city allowing traffic to bypass about 9 blocks. Plus you are able to drive thru a building
Love that place! The greatest city! It’s been rising and falling economically for 250 years.
Yesss Jackson Heights and Astoria getting some love!
I didn’t know he was so passionate about New York 😂😂 he seemed ready to fight on the first question
Thanks for the video. It's help when we visiting again on August
Thanks big fella!
My pick for best tourist attraction in NYC is always the Circle Line Tour around Manhattan. It's the best tourist thing I have ever done anywhere, best three hours you'll ever spend.
Definitely the tipping makes me nervous. Because I travel on a low Budget so out of respect, I rather not go to a place that is mandatory to tip because its not on my budget to add 20% more, really. So I just rather not go then. So I can respect that culture.
I just came back from Australia and New Zealand, no tipping culture there. My understanding is that it's because the servers actually make a living wage. There's not even room on many receipts to place a tip, and at a lounge at the Sydney airport, I tried to tip after ordering drinks, and the kind bartender rejected accepting my tip. I think our tipping culture is a very American thing
I’ve been there so many times before covid and now after covid. I walked all Manhattan, parte of Brooklyn and bronx. Used metro in many
Different areas of NYC
I do not notice any difference from before. Unfortunately there are many homeless peoples as always did.
But I think the city grown in terms of touristic attractions
I just visited Manhattan last week for the first time since 2015 and loads of places felt like it could do with a good power hose. As much as I try to avoid it something really needs done with times square as it's just gross and those fake characters need purged Also the whole place stunk like weed which wasn't great when I was travelling with young kids. Although new York still has its charm despite the bad bits which are there in every city.
I'm gonna be honest bro when I went in the summer I saw a lot of mfs doped up in the subways, had one scream that he was gonna shoot me and 3 others nearby, and had one dude on Molly tell me the meaning of life on a 5am train ride. Had a great time but for my first solo trip it was pretty wild lol
People should have been in NYC in the ‘70s through the early ‘90s. The place was a mess. Not to dismiss today’s issue, the city had hit bottom. Yes, things are tough now, however, it’s way better than years ago.
Definitely true especially from a dude like me from the South Bronx.
Glad I was too young for that time. NYC from 97-2019 was the redemption years minus 9/11.
@@mariowalker9048 It was rough period, but at the same time Art & culture bloomed in NYC.
As for current Broadway shows, Kimberly Akimbo, MJ the Musical, and Parade are my favorites in that order.
The subway system can be confusing and intimidate visitors, but you won't learn and appreciate them without trying. Jon has many how-to use the subway videos. Also, Thea of Urbane Caffeine does a good job explaining the system. It really is a great way to get around the city, especially Manhattan.
Thanks!!
It’s actually improving and getting better.
John you DEFINITELY got those hidden gems on point !!!
I only tip for skill or labor based services such as nail/hair salon, furniture movers, servers at restaurants, sandwich makers, baristas, hotel concierge, etc….
I do NOT tip for retail services like shop cashiers
I worked in the Penthouse of the Chrysler Building for a top Advertising Agency in 1979.
My husband and I are visiting april 3rd to the 7th, we are really excited. We are from Chicago, but its always fun to explore another city. We have tickets for the Yankees vs Phillies game on Tuesday the 5th and tickets for Michael Jackson the musical on Wednesday the 6th.
Unfortunately there are a lot of problems in a lot of US cities and towns due to government corruption, inflation and trying to get back normal post pandemic. It'll take time, we'll get there. Looking forward to seeing NYC again, it's been 23 years for me and 30 for my husband.
I am retired, and plan on spending a month in NYC. I was thinking a residential hotel would be more cost-effective. No deposit, free Wi-Fi, no electric bill don't have to buy cleaning supplies and free TV all included. I debated on possibly moving to New York for a year. What are your thoughts of staying in a hotel versus renting. Given all the amenities a hotel provides. Plus they also would clean your room. Granted I see the difference of having your individual space. Was not so many random people coming in and out. But you'd have the security of a doorman per se
Never count NYC out.
I think a very good public restroom is inside the Public Library, very close to Bryant Park, but without the lines from the park's restrooms.
Can you do a video on westChester or Long Island, would appreciate it :)
Just got back from my 20something~th trip to NYC. regarding restrooms, believe it or not Central Park has a brand new restroom on west corner near Columbus Circle called the Merchant's Gate comfort station. It's always been there but this was the first time I've seen it open!
My first and hopefully not last visit was in August 2022. The best 10 days of our lives. What a city! It lived up to the massive hype, and we still have a lot left to explore and discover. It is VERY expensive, but worth it. Love NYC!♥️🇺🇸
I visited in 2018. New York City does live up to the hype.
let's be truthful. the city is very much in decay. I live on east 72 st. garbage and crime are everywhere.
GREAT VIDEO!!! NYC has cool sites!!!
I think that you have a positive view of the city and are Not totally wrong. Flushing has overshadowed Chinatown which is shrinking. Transit hubs are good for the bathroom minus Penn Station. I don’t think people will help because they are in their phone. Never knew Chrysler has an observation deck and I work across the street. The Highbridge, City Island and Grand Concourse for the Bronx are hidden gems!!!
Thai Villa is a GREAT restaurant in NY
Thank you for answering the Chinese food question!
I walked into the Chrysler building lobby today and the gentleman at the door escorted me out 😅
Unfortunately, Chrysler Building security guards no longer allow the public inside to see their beautiful lobby ( and they’re not particularly pleasant about it).
Yes, was just informed of this in the contents.
New York City began a steep decline well before the pandemic hit. Unfortunately, the ongoing pandemic has made things even worse. Things will improve over the next few years and the magic will absolutely return. It will just take longer than we would all like. As always, appreciate your videos.
I also saw Jeff Daniels perform in to kill a mockingbird.. Love that one too but my favorite Broadway shows I saw down on Broadway was American buffalo, beetlejuice, book of mormon, and wicked!
Without watching right away, YES.
I was just in .Vegas. Its in decline IMO. Its like a bit better version of .Atlantic City, which is no compliment. I stayed at a top rated hotel and room service didn’t even answer the phone x 2. The streets are terrible. Panhandlers all over the place. Prices have skyrocketed. Really sad tbh. I hope NYC isn’t the same. Have not returned since pre covid.
My favorite thing about NYC is also the people. Second favorite thing are all the amazing museums! Can't wait to visit soon.
Barr, great advice from start to finish.
The 'demise' of NYC has been 'imminent ' 3 or 4 times in my lifetime. But the city always bounces back better than ever.
Its because of Trump's fault
The difference this time is liberals are charge. All great cities built by conservative ruined by liberals
This☝🏽
I think your analysis is spot on. It gets more attention now, because social media and everyone with a smartphone has the ability to photograph it. I just got back from Bozeman/Big Sky, Montana -- and shockingly, there was a fair amount of homelessness, panhandling and vagrants there too. Prices there have gotten out of control -- sound familiar? This is a nationwide... maybe even a worldwide problem. It's on us as a society to fix.
I think your answer about people is the best part of NYC. I truly do miss native New Yorkers. They can be very abrupt, but in times of need, the most helpful people you'll encounter. I don't get that in Boston.
Another informative, stellar video.
I went to 371 East 10th Street off Tompkins Park in 2012, the center the drug area known as Alphabet City, to visit the building where Disney child star and Academy Award Winner died. I walked through Tompkins Park from one end to the other. People were friendly and helpful. So, proving, folklore isn't always right.
If you are in Central Park, there are washrooms outside of the Boathouse Restaurant near Bethesda Fountain (btw the current rumors are that the Boathouse Restaurant will be reopening at some point). There's also washrooms at the Delacorte Theater by Belvedere Castle and by the steps at Bethesda Fountain (leading towards the Mall).
About tipping & cash: have small amounts of cash on hand with you ($1 bills, $5 bills, $10s) for smaller tips and for places which take cash only. I was surprised that many places in NYC are still cash only, or only take cash tips.
The thumbnail looks like the cleanest spot in Berlin.
I have two questions for your next Q&A video. Where are the best locations for theater not located on Broadway (so, I guess the actual question would be where are the best off-Broadway locations?). And is there a theater district in Brooklyn?
I understand you want to be positive about NYC but you can’t really tell me with a straight face that it is safe. People are leaving not just crime but the high expenses of living there. Yea it’s a mega city with a great variety but it’s not as safe as it was before the pandemic. And it’s even more expensive.
Watched a lot of your vids in preparation for a quick 2 day trip for work and enjoyed all you had to say and offer. Rode the subway everywhere and felt like a pro! Checked out NY Pizza Suprema also thanks to your Rec. enjoy your videos!
Hey thank you. More of this.
Excellent video Jon! Huge like.
Jon, thanks for answering my question about public bathrooms! I'll have to check out the Bryant Park bathroom to see for myself!
Thank you Jon, i always love your videos ❤
Coming back for four days in the end of September for the first time in 12 years! So very excited to reconnect with where I came from after almost thirty five years out here in SoCal…if I remember correctly, it’s still generally nice but not TOO cool in late September, yes?
@@edvaira6891 You will be OK, no Santa Ana winds in September NY.
Lol, strength in numbers. Old man gets his hair set on fire on the Subway, younger man objects and gets beaten while the rest of the brave new Yorkers turn a blind eye.
They seem to think being accepting of living in a violent city makes them cool. It doesn't. It just makes them compassionless and hoping to not be the next victim.
The nightlife is not like it used to be, back to 70s to 90s there were a lot of clubs to go
Yes
I would recommend AK's trail shoes for cold and/or rainy weather and normal mesh breathable shoes for warmer days.
Thanks for bringing Megan in the video - she is super nice and the best tour guide colleague!
Super informative!
Nice to see Megan!
Came to New York five times and he knows about drug problems and homelessness 🤣🤣🤣 can't make this up
Being right now in downtown Manhattan, security is fine for us - Imeven took the sub at 10pm with my kids 10 and 15!
All great selections, Wave Hill in the Bronx is another hidden gem, scenic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades.
Funny, I was about to write Wave Hill in the comments section, but you beat me to it. There are other parks up the scenic Hudson in Westchester.
Everywhere is in decline in the US, less education, lower wages, inflation, addictions, more people not working than working, 40% working cant carry the other 60%. That was the turning point unless that changes the government can't just keep giving out money to keep people fed that they don't want to do for themselves. The tax revenue just isn't there anymore.