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New York City

Responsible Travel

Responsible Travel Advice

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Sidewalk and subway pace

New York moves fast, and the unwritten rules are mostly about not getting in the way of that. On sidewalks, keep to the right and step aside rather than stopping abruptly to check a phone or a map, especially near a subway entrance or busy corner. On subway escalators, stand on the right and walk on the left. When a train arrives, let riders exit before stepping on, and move toward the center of the car rather than blocking the doors.

Tipping

Tipping is expected, not optional, in most service settings. Budget 15-20% at sit-down restaurants, and around a dollar per drink at a bar. Many service workers rely on tips as a real part of their income, so skipping this is felt, not just noticed.

General courtesy

New Yorkers are generally happy to give directions if asked directly and briefly -- stopping to ask rather than blocking foot traffic while consulting a phone goes a long way. As in any major city, staying aware of surroundings and belongings in crowded tourist spots (Times Square, the subway, popular museum lines) is worth the small effort it takes.

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