Visiting New York is the dream of many and as an Englishman myself, I can honestly say that I would love to visit the Big Apple at some point in the future. I actually came extremely close last year when I nearly bought a ticket on a whim but now I'm glad I didn't. Why? I failed to plan anything and the whole trip would have been a great disappointment as one of my friends came to realize not so long ago. For this reason, after conversing with my friend, I have decided to note the top mistakes that people make when visiting New York in an attempt to prevent them occurring to anyone else.
1) Subway System Struggles - The subway system seems perfectly normal from the outside and doesn't look as though it needs planning in advance but this all changes when you walk down those steps. You don't necessarily have to plan anything before you get to New York but before you leave the hotel, make sure you know exactly what you are doing. Many a tourist has fallen by the wayside in the subway system so learn what each color represents, how you are going to pay and exactly what train to get on to reach your destination.
2) Midtown 24/7 - Midtown is great if you want to enjoy the lights and the party atmosphere but if you want to get a true reflection of New York, you also have to leave this area. Of course, that doesn't mean that you should avoid Times Square as this will make a fascinating trip but also take some time to leave Midtown and see some other things.
3) Not Planning Transport - This can be a horrible mistake to make even if you live not too far away and are taking a day trip into New York; the best advice is to charter a bus and there are many reasons for this. Firstly, it takes many stresses away from your trip including those relating to parking, traffic, the crowdedness of public transport and even going to the restroom. This is best applied if there is a group of you, on a company trip for example, and it will allow you to see the city in a more convenient and affordable way.
4) Statue of Liberty Heartache - The Statue of Liberty alone can turn a trip from good to great but there are some things you should be aware of. Firstly, you aren't going to be able to turn up on the day and go up it, you need to book months before and even then you could struggle. All is not lost here though, you should research some surrounding areas that will allow you to enjoy the Statue of Liberty such as the Brooklyn Bridge or Red Hook.
5) Forgetting Etiquette - While you are enjoying the hustle and bustle of the city, the locals are trying to get on with their day so it is important to remember etiquette. For example, stopping on the middle of the sidewalk to take a 'selfie' may look great in your photo album but it is likely to cause great annoyance to those walking with their head down only focusing on getting from A to B. If you have to, step to the side to prevent getting in someone's way.
6) Hailing a Cab - Let's be more specific with this one - hailing a cab during rush hour. Remember, you are on vacation or a day trip and therefore the local needs are greater than yours during rush hour. If you can, use the subway or plan your journeys so you don't stick out like a sore thumb when you need to travel when the streets are packed and people are stealing cabs from under your nose.
7) Completing The 'Standard' Things - If you don't live nearby, your time in New York is precious so you shouldn't spend your time queueing just because that attraction is the 'norm'. Instead, find some other things you can do with your time. With a little bit of research you will find a number of high-quality restaurants and days out that offer just as much excitement as all the 'standard' New York day trips.