Manhattan Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Digital Resources

Essential Apps

Citymapper
Real-time transit information (subway, bus, LIRR, NJ Transit, ferry).
Google Maps/Apple Maps
General navigation, walking directions, business search.
MTA Apps
Official apps for live subway and bus information, service alerts.
Uber/Lyft
For ride-sharing services.
Yelp/OpenTable
Yelp for reviews, OpenTable for restaurant reservations.

Useful Websites

NYC & Company
Official tourism information (nycgo.com).
Time Out New York
Current events, nightlife, dining, art listings.
MTA Official
Public transportation information, maps, schedules, advisories (mta.info).
Broadway.com
Broadway show information, schedules, official ticket purchases.
Babbel
A tool for grasping basic English phrases. Learn more with Babbel

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Popular choices include Lonely Planet New York City, Fodor's New York City, and Frommer's EasyGuide to New York City.

Books About the Destination

"The Power Broker" (urban planning), "Here is New York" (classic essay), and "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" (fiction) deepen understanding.

Local Publications

Time Out New York is a free weekly magazine. The Village Voice offers historical context.

Time Out New York The Gothamist

Digital Content & Learning

Online Communities & Forums

Reddit (r/nyc, r/asknyc, r/NYCtouristhelp)
TripAdvisor Forums for advice
Facebook Groups for NYC travel
NordVPN for secure browsing

Language Learning

Consider Babbel for basic English phrases.
Interaction with diverse communities.
Grasp simple conversational elements.
Babbel Language App

Podcasts & Vlogs

"The Bowery Boys: NYC History" podcast.
Various NYC travel vlogs on YouTube.
Visual guides and neighborhood tours.
Dining experiences for inspiration.

Emergency & Medical Information

Critical Information

Emergency Contacts

All Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911
Non-Emergency Police/City Services: Dial 311
Mental health services: 212-NYC-WELL
Report immediately and clearly.

Hospitals & Clinics

Major Hospitals: NYU Langone, Mount Sinai, NewYork-Presbyterian.
Urgent Care Centers for non-life-threatening situations.
Numerous urgent care locations across Manhattan.
A faster, less expensive emergency room alternative.

Embassy & Consulate

Locate your country's embassy in Washington D.C.
Find your country's consulate in New York City.
Keep contact information handy.
Guidance with lost passports or emergencies.

Lost Document Procedures

Steps to Take

Contact local police, file a report immediately.
Obtain a copy of the police report.
Contact your embassy/consulate for replacement documents.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Staying Prepared

Follow instructions from local authorities (NYC Emergency Management).
Stay informed via local news (radio, TV, reliable social media).
Review accommodation's emergency procedures.

Before Departure Checklist

Departure Preparations

Account for souvenir weight.
Check airline baggage limits.
Consider shipping large items via USPS, FedEx, UPS.
Factor in shipping costs and customs duties.
The U.S. Has no nationwide VAT refund.

Airport & Hotel Exit

Airport arrival: 2-3 hrs domestic, 3-4 hrs international.
Hotel check-out time awareness.
Arrange late check-out or luggage storage.
Confirm flight status online.
Pack essentials in carry-on (meds, docs, chargers).

Departure Reminders

Luggage & Souvenirs

Weigh luggage to avoid fees. Consider shipping larger items home.

VAT Refund Info

The United States has no nationwide VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists.

Airport Timing

Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic flights, 3-4 hours for international.

Critical Safety Note:

In emergency, dial 911. Maintain awareness of surroundings. File police report for lost documents.

Online & Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

Top Guidebook Choices

Lonely Planet New York City
For comprehensive coverage and practical details.
Fodor's New York City
A well-regarded series featuring detailed itineraries.
Frommer's EasyGuide to New York City
Direct advice on highlights.

Essential Navigation Aids

MTA Subway Map
Pick up a free paper map at any subway station.
Digital Map Versions
Download a digital version for intuitive network comprehension.
Smartphone Apps
Install navigation apps for real-time transit information.

Literary & Cultural Explorations

Non-Fiction Reads

"The Power Broker" by Robert Caro (urban planning history) and "Here is New York" by E.B. White (capturing city essence).

Explore Non-Fiction

Fiction Set in NYC

"A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith (immigrant life) and "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger (coming-of-age).

Discover Fiction

NYC Filmography

"Manhattan" (1979) by Woody Allen and "Taxi Driver" (1976) for a gritty portrayal.

Watch NYC Films

Digital Resources for Navigation

Essential Apps for Your Smartphone

Download Citymapper for real-time transit directions.
Google Maps/Apple Maps for general navigation.
MTA App for live subway and bus information.
TodayTix and TKTS App for discounted Broadway tickets.

Websites for Planning

NYC & Company (nycgo.com) for official tourism information.
Time Out New York (timeout.com/newyork) for events and dining.
MTA (mta.info) for public transportation schedules and advisories.
Broadway.com for show information and ticket purchases.

Podcasts & Online Communities

Engaging Podcasts

"The Bowery Boys: New York City History" podcast.
Various New York-themed Vlogs for visual guides.
Neighborhood tours and dining experiences.
Download these to your smartphone.

Active Online Communities

Reddit (r/nyc, r/asknyc, r/NYCtouristhelp) for questions.
TripAdvisor Forums for user-generated advice.
Facebook Groups for New York City travel advice.
NordVPN for secure browsing in public Wi-Fi.

Pro Tip:

For more authentic food experiences, Eater NY (ny.eater.com) focuses on food news, restaurant openings, and reviews, showing options beyond tourist areas.

Manhattan Travel Resources