New York's Worst Tourist Traps: Times Square, Scams, Frauds, and More
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- Опубліковано 30 тра 2024
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Sarah Funk well explained Sarah from INDIA
great video, same as London, we got so many those popup souvenir shops.
I
How's the escorts over there...
Your accent is very interesting, down in the southern hemisphere we roll our 'r's even when we don't, so refreshing to hear a perfectly clean 'r' ...so to speak.
Everyone should go to Times Square at least once just for the over the top sensory experience of it, take a few pictures but don't spend any money there and you will be fine. :)
totally agreed, went in the mid 60s when it was way less organized awesome experience.
Did just that on my wife and I's honeymoon- was a wonderful trip. Ate where we want, went to the Museum and 1WTC and only spent maybe $150 total. There is alot of great bargains and buys in NYC if you look
@@DuecePiece HEY BUDDY ,UR A FUCKIN CHEAP DATE ✡️✡️✡️✡️✡️💉💉
@@DuecePiece most of the bargains are in the village and canal street. in Manhattan you can spend $60 in 7 days. just don't go to starbucks and dunkin donuts. you just have to know where to go, the deli's are the thing. coffee is everywhere unlike FL with their gas station and mall crap.
True. Went there with my Dad in the early 90’s when it was wall to wall porn shops/nudie booths nearby. 😬😬😬
I've lived in NYC for 20 years and disagree with several things in this video. (1) The Museum of Natural History, the MET, and MOMA are AMAZING museums; some of the finest museums in the United States. The Museum of the Moving Image is not even remotely in the same category. The idea that these wonderful museums full of priceless art are tourist traps is hilarious. (2) You won't get the same view of the city from a rooftop bar that you would from the Empire State Building or the Freedom Tower. The Empire State Building and Freedom Tower are both 100+ floors high; the hotel rooftop bars will probably be about a third of that height at best. I have no interest in going to one of those observation towers, but for the tourists who do, I get it. (3) Plenty of New Yorkers shop on 5th Ave. Shopping in other areas is great too. But 5th Ave is a lot more than a tourist trap. (4) If you want a coffee, Starbucks is a perfectly fine option. Independent shops are great too. But to say that Starbucks is a tourist trap is silly. (5) As a New Yorker, I hate going to Times Square. But if you are a first-time visitor to NYC, you should definitely go! It's a unique experience. Get in and get out and avoid eating at chain restaurants.
Totally agree with you. Most of the museums in NYC are either "pay want you want" or, on certain days of the week, Some like the police, fire or finance museum are reasonable priced (under $10 dollars) for admission. As to the expensive museums, well you only have to visit them once or not at all, your choice. As to shopping, downtown is a better option or
hop a train and try Queens or Brooklyn.
Thank you, Why tell a tourist not to do the touristy things. That’s what they should do if they are tourists and haven’t been to those sites.
@@chanelmone4721 Tourists are individuals. Actually many tourist hate the overcrowded expensive famous places. Many go there anyway because they are to lazy to make research before they go.
And about Starbucks, guess that is ok if you never tried good coffee.
But the art museums is a must even if you have to fight your way in.
As a New Yorker, this was nice to read. Before I moved to the city, I was a tourist! Yeah Times Square is annoying and I avoid it like the plague now, but it's definitely something everyone should experience, it was super cool and jaw dropping for me the first time I went. Also a total yes to getting a view from the Empire State Building. I'll never do it again (SO pricey) but it was totally worth it, especially at night
I'm learning so much. As a first time visitor n soon to be living there thank you for your comment
Sarah: Times Square sucks!
Also Sarah: Here is my favorite rooftop bar in Times Square!!! 😃
Right? And don't go the the MET, but here's a great bar on the MET rooftop!
She said during NYE
Sarah, i believe you make a few valid points in this excellent presentation. However, as a visitor to NYC on a 3 day schedule, taking a Grayline Hop on Hop Off bus with a combined attraction package was the best decision ever.
Sure there are places of interest you miss out on, but we knew we couldn't do it all, so the bus gives you a real flavour of the city and for us over 60's not having to walk everywhere in winter sealed the deal. The tour guide on the bus was excellent btw!!
I am highly offended about the museum part, and I know for a fact that even going to a museum is not expensive. The museums are the best experiences at NYC and I wouldn’t miss it just to go to one free one. The moving images is nice but not as big as the MET, Moma, and the natural history museum, all museums that you mentioned are way bigger than the moving images
And she didn't even mention the Brooklyn museum which is like the big art museum minus the crowds smh
Offended? That's a strong word. Lighten up
I agree, the MET and the MOMA are must see museums. I've been to the Moving Image museum and it's a good stop halfway to the airport if you're flying out of LGA but if you're going to visit NYC GO TO THE MET!
Compared to openly free museums, some museums have a steep mandatory entry fee and who wants to be shamed giving the clerk a buck or two as a "Donation" in front of everybody. They should have a slotted box for private, pay what you want "Donations".
I think “offended” is such a powerful word for not liking someone’s opinion on a video.
I man gave me a cd when I was in NYC, I said thanks and walked away. He yelled 'it is not free, it is not free', I said 'Oh' and I returned the cd. I assume that something is free when it is given to me.
There are scammers like that everywhere. In Seoul, South Korea, sometimes ladies walk through with packs of gum. I had one give me one once and then she wanted money. I gave it back to her. Beijing has CD scammers and Bali has people following you up and down the beach saying "buy this ring, buy this watch". They hassle you to death.
Lmfao that happened to me and he got pissed. I gave it back but he got even more pissed. I just walked away, I agree if you hand me something I take it as free too.
Never put that in your cd tray bro fyi
They’ll stop u and ask what your name is then sign their CD in your name and make you buy it lol dont stop for them theyre scammers
This happened to me to, when I gave it back he cussed me and my group out. He literally chased us into the Disney store. Fortunately he wasn’t around when we left. The whole thing shocked me to be honest.
"Do not visit Times Square, do not go to The Empire State, Do not visit any important museum in NYC.... you know what? better stay home..." >____
I don't think she said Don't visit any museum but instead mentioned smaller museums as an alternative. I agree with all her advice...although I could see some wanting to pay to skate at the Rock, as it's an icon. I've visited NYC prob 50 times and never went to the top of the Empire State Building and have no regrets.
🤣😂
I don't think she's a native New Yorker.
First, most of the restaurants in Manhattan suck unless you're willing to pay at least a hundred per meal for two. A much better option is to leave the city (Manhattan) for the outer boroughs where you can get awesome meals for cheap. It's also a way to explore some of the more interesting neighborhoods.
Two - to say avoid some of our best museums is so ridiculous, I have no words. Does she really think locals don't go to Met, or Museum of Natural History or MOMA?? GTFOH!
Same with our landmark sites. Don't go to the Freedom Tower? She even got the name wrong, it's 1 World Trade Center.
Ok, so you don't have to go up for the views, but people should still visit the site as what happened there is part of our history now. I mean it's so much more than taking an elevator up for the views, c'mon!
@@ellierk2880 YOU'VE READ MY MIND. She doesn't know what she's talking about. Definitely not a native.
@@ellierk2880 you dont know who has been eating from those plates and utensils and cups
too eeech!!!!
I think you’re missing the point of tourism. Yes we know we’re getting ripped off and we could get stuff cheaper but I didn’t fly for 7 hours to NOT go to the Empire State etc,the reason why there’s ‘hoards of tourists’ it’s because where tourists want to go, of course I’d avoid those places like the plague if I lived there but for many it’s once in a lifetime. Would you go to Egypt but avoid the pyramids because it’s a tourist trap? We’re not New Yorkers we’re tourists.
beautifully said.
cindi brady of course I don’t ‘like’ being ripped off. What a moronic thing to say, I just accept that when you’re a tourist and like it or not that’s what you are you just have to accept you’re going to probably pay over the odds for some things or maybe if you’re such a tight fisted skinflint then just stay at home and never go anywhere if paying a bit too much for a coke keeps you awake at night. Btw I think New York’s fantastic.and yes it cost me a fortune.
@@Porkcylinder You got overly emotional here. Care more about a random person on UA-cam. :)
Trucker my dad used to work there so we would always visit but she’s right - they pen you in these huge lines and it takes hours.
I thought the Empire State building was one of the top tourist sites I have seen anywhere. Went up the Willis Tower - not nearly as good. Empire St Blg is just so iconic and it has great views of NYC. We also went the Friday before Labor Day and waited 15 minutes so not much of a line.
Who else is watching this and they're not even going to New York
You got me!!!!
I have already been and I will probably not return but I find it fun to watch all the videos that NYC-ers make about their city. They are so enthusiast about it and that is fun to watch. Many people who live in for example London or Paris do find these places shitholes but NYC-ers are really enthusiast about their city, that is a fascinating contrast. Furthermore scams interest me and not because I want to scam other people.
vangrails oooookkkkkaaaaaayyyyy
😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😂
2 L8 Lol
No tourist traveling to new york should miss the empire state building or times square! Neither of them are "traps" they are incredibly iconic! And well worth your time....the costume characters on the other hand...
Exactly. My friend was pick-pocketed by an Elmo. And these characters are unlicensed. It's become so crazy! So many. .. And walking up the street, headed toward Times Square, my best friend and I ran into a Predator and Alien who needed help fastening their costumes. We obliged in return for a photo, and then the costumed Predator licked my friend's face (like, a nasty gross lick) when I was about to snap the photo. Yeah .. These folks can be nasssssty.
"The are incredibly iconic"
Times Square need to visit. But after 10 mins and you've got used to the lights, you see it for what it is. Tacky and overpriced hovel where people just want you money and don't care how they get it.
Ya if you don't have the privilege of living close to NYC of course you would want to see that stuff! Same with the more famous museums.
@@ScreamingManiacs *"..then the costumed Predator licked my friend's face (like, a nasty gross lick).."* "I came to New York City and all I got was this lousy hepatitis C from a street performer"
For someone who's never been to NY and they're going for the very first time, how could you tell them to skip The Empire State building?? lol
That's like saying when you go to Miami, skip going to its beautiful beaches because they're crowded.. come'n on..
I totally agree, I think she's really saying.. "if you want to come to New York, stay at home!"
Because it is just another tourist trap destination, that's why. NYC is huge and has so much more to offer than a few touristy selfie destinations like the Empire State Building,
It would be a crime if i go to NY and skipped the Empire State building. 😳
@@sonagu70 It's not a crime. She is absolutely right. There are a number of places on this planet who were turned into a tourist scam. And living condition for locals who run then gets worse and worse in those places
Its ok. To go or not. I went to Paris and i didn climb the Eiffel tower.
Any other New Yorkers watch videos like this just to point out everything wrong?lol
yes omg
Most of us who live here don’t get to do the things she listed just bc of time and money but everyone should see the Empire State Times Sq and roof top bars may not have tons of tourists but you will be surrounded by drunk people at best on the 20th floor. I say if you visit nyc and you wanna do something do it. Some of the scams /cds and scalping and the like happen in every city. And are obvious.
Uhh….Yes..But, she's a well meaning transplant.
Yes that’s what I am doing now
@@lordvenom4419 😂😂
The tip about rooftop bars is great. It's cool to go to the Empire State Building, but when your on the Empire State Building, you can't _see_ the Empire State Building. You can from a rooftop bar 😄
Exactly! That's the main problem i have with the empire state building. You miss the most iconic building of NY in the photos because you're on it!
The view from one world observatory is amazing as is the elevator ride
Dan Mccauley Yes it is but there are so many people. If you don't mind the crowds than it's a great place to go. 😊
Sarah Funk we went early so it was ok
Wish you would show the prices and interiors of hotel/airbnb rooms in NYC. That is appalling enough.
Missed the comedy show scam. Idiots will try and give you free tickets to a comedy show, but they won't give them to you without a donation.
Also, Times Square sucks. The best thing that was there was the Toy's R Us store and now it's gone.
Great point! I missed that one. Thanks for sharing!
I mean hey that's your opinion but times square doesnt suck. I like the LED light billboards.
Well I mean there’s always the m&m store. As a chocolate lover I am quite fond of it.
But yea I also loved the Toys R Us store. I loved riding the Ferris wheel when I was younger.
I've been going there since I was about 4 or 5, I was so mad to find out they got rid of Toys R Us.
Zaheed Chapman May
when she started talking about how bad being there on new years eve is, it upset me because its all about the experience when people go. obviously its much nicer being cozy in your home, but then what experience are you getting from that? for most people, being there in times square on new years eve is a once in a lifetime opportunity
abbaba. The experience of sitting in my home saying "Im glad Im not there".
I was in a fake times square in Central Park but it still was amazing with all the people and good cheer. I think the real Times Square would freak me out
Trust me. It's bad.
@@nancyalywahby2784 lazylard
@@debajitdeka4236 insecure
My wife and I went on one of the big tourist bus tours and had a great time and were able to get a good tour of the city. We went back after to the places we wanted to spend more time in.
yes the bus tour is excellent and narrated
When I sefied myself at Chinese Thearter in LA those cutume guys came behind and posted with me. They demanded me to pay $20 but I denied to pay. One of them got upset and told me to delete all photo on my cellphone but I denied again. These guys threat me this time so I said them I am calling police and walked around to ask for police. One of them approched and told me not to tell police, so I told him that do not come close to me and do not come to take picture with me because I did not ask for it. They just leaved me alone after that. So do not be scare of these guys. They can not do anything to you in the public.
Left you alone
$20 for a picture? $1 maybe. $20? Sorry, not happening.
As first time tourists in NY, my mom dropped her phone, a guy picked her phone up and asked for a small tip. She told him that she had no spare change and left but did not notice that the same guy was following us. The good thing is that in the end, the guy left us alone.
@@noncreativeamateur1926 why didn't she help him .. He had no problem helping her smh horrible
Christian Chris
Yeah, but no one follows you all the way until you pay them for dropping your phone. When there are times to donate, cool! And i really mean it, but no one forces you to donate. That donation is supposed to be sincere and voluntary...not forced. She usually does donate, but for us, this was a new experience. We're from Texas and go to the Houston area at times and no one has ever forced anyone to give tips/ donations by force, much less follow you until you give them something in return.
As a native New Yorker, I can tell you THIS is 100% accurate and true. Well done. Topping the list without a doubt; all the plushies and superheroes in Times Square!
Totally! PietroFlorian. I hope you subscribed (if you haven't already)! Thank you for the kind comment! :)
Subscribed :-) !
will u marry me................NOT
"
No, No, don't go to that place that everyone will ask you about, go to my friend's tourist trap instead."
Visited 1 time and it was a very memorable experience.the helmsley was beautiful.1 of the employees turned me on to a 5 buck breakfast sandwich shop,locals can tell ya where and where not to go.stepping off the train and trying to figure out a subway map was crazy,but once again police and locals were really nice to the country bumpkin in boots.running late 4 the train home,cabbie had my back.what a ride,it was a blast.thanks man.dress for walkin and have fun.seeing it on TV ain't nothing like the real thing!
Yes!!! The characters are highkey rude. I went on saturday and an elsa guy got mad for me not paying him 15 dollars for a picture of times square. He wasnt even in it an he brought his 5 friends over to yell at me like,,, im 15 and have no money leave me alone😭😭 he then threw his head at me and followed me until i reached my theatre lmao
I'm not even a tourist and I've fallen for the costume characters in Battery Park. My son posed for a picture with lady liberty and lady liberty demanded $5 immedately after I took the pic. In retrospect I shouldn't have paid since there weren't any signs to make it clear there was a fee expected. At the time I felt embarrassed and flustered so I just coughed up the cash. Live n learn. These are great tips 👌
That exact situation happened to me too years ago! They are tricky.
I saw this happen to a couple with a child in times square. Took the picture and as they walked away captain America and the avengers charged after them demanding 4 bucks.
@@sprinkles1246 🤣 your comment's hilarious. You should've added "...That really happened."
Haven't you ever been to the Sunset Strip in Hollywood? It's nothing but costumed people jumping into your pictures and then demanding to be paid! Same as NYC!
As a true nyker ill let you know you could just walk away lmao
Went to NYC during Christmas with my family. We visited just about all of the tourist "traps" that she mentioned, Time Square, Statue of Liberty, Freedom tower, Central park, China town, Little Italy, etc. I would not have gone to NYC without seeing these "traps". These places are packed for a reason, they are cool to see. While I do agree about the wax museum and a few other places that you can find in any big city, I disagree about not seeing what makes NYC NYC. But now that I've done the tourist trap stuff, I look forward to seeing some of the places she did mention.
I think your confused as to what a scam actually is
Lmao a scam is where u pay and get a brick instead of a tablet.
YES
I'm going ny in 2 months can't wait, going to see some of the touristy things but a lot is exploring 😁
Mr buster did you go lmao
A scam is taking a tour costing $599 for up to 6 persons with a guide who isn't Licensed by the Dept of Consumer Affairs. Theoretically, it is illegal to charge monies as a guide without having a License, although it's never enforced.
Also I went to the Empire State Building and I had to wait in a line for about twenty minutes. That's reasonable seeing as some many people go there but it's definitely NOT packed
Last time I was there I brought with me a stuffed animal gorilla to scale the walls. I was kind of surprised to learn that a lot of people don't actually do this .. Hmmm
It depends when you go. I visited an hour before close in 20 degree weather and there was no line at all.
I live in NYC and it's honestly great but this girl just said everything you want to do in NYC don't do it's crowded. The reason it's crowded is because it's a great place
Naomi A : only reason it’s crowded because the layout is small.
Naomi A. You think Times Sq. is a great place? Really?
it's crowded because it's a tourist trap. get off the beaten path. get out and see the real nyc
Wow. The New Times Sq looks to be a place to funnel tourists, to dazzle them with huge COMMERCIALS, to take their money with overpriced food and souvenirs.!?? Eh.?
Are ‘Urban Adventures’ paying you a commission ?
I actually think the tour bus was a great deal when we went. We did the hop on hop off and for $75 were able to get around the entire city and surrounding areas for 3 days. It included entry to some museums and ferry to the Statue of Liberty. We didn’t pay anything less that $50 for cabs and Uber so it’s actually a good way to learn about the city and get off in the areas you want to walk around. For a first time visit you can’t beat it. It’s every part of the city you want to see and then some. If you’re not a local and it’s your first time visiting, the subway can be overwhelming. We had no clue how it worked or idea where we were going.
that sucks and you suck. subways are extremely easy to navigate and give such a better feel.
Great video, but a couple of comments
1If you want a really great view, nothing can beat the three big observation points (Empire State, Top of the Rock, One World Trade) they are expensive and have long lines, but they have much better views than any rooftop bar, because they’re much higher (88th,78, and 100th floors respectively)
Also, there’s a reason the really popular museums are really popular, they’re amazing!!. They are going to be really crowded, but totally worth it. The Museum of the moving image is great, but it is pretty out of the way. Also, many museums around the city are free certain days of the week
1) Hit Queens and Brooklyn
2) DON'T eat at corporate restaurants (like the Olive Garden)
3) Learn subway etiquette. Put your bags at your feet, let people off before you go on, etc.
4) Walk fast or walk to the extreme right
5) Time Square is very crowded...on nice days. In the winter or when it is raining, the crowd thins out.
Love this channel. So well put together.
ive done urban adventures in london and it was absolutely great. Sarah is right. Small private tours with a theme you actually appreciate. Its really not even that expensive if you book in advance. We did one about famous musicians and another about the history of english ales. Both were completely different but totally interesting because the people giving the tours are excited about the tour they are giving.
I never understand what’s with people always belittling and spreading their skeptical thought process in everyone else’s life. She (Sarah) clearly stated in the first header of the description below of the video, that this is in no way paid or endorsed video. Woman is trynna help her fellow Americans or perhaps tourists visiting the city to prevent you from facing all the hardships and pretty much saving about those bucks and getting scam in no time. Plz be respectful to others that are merely just helping by not berating them. I’m native New Yorker and I can with certainty tell that every trick of the trade she shared here was worthwhile and rings true. Keep up the great work Sarah, I absolutely admire your work and getting the word out ❤️!
Thank you so much! I appreciate you saying that!
I disagree about the ice skating. The Rockefeller ice skating rink is iconic and IMO worth it just to know that you skated there once especially during the holidays with the tree and all. :D
EvoPortal agree. Rockefeller during Christmas is classical and iconic
EvoPortal it’s always crowded tho
I agree. Rockefeller rink can charge more because IT IS iconic and worth every penny for the experience of a lifetime.
It's way too expensive, the Bryant park rink is way less expensive and a lot less busy. Also, if you live here and have skates/lock, you can skate for free. I absolutely love it.
It's only 20-something dollars to skate at the world-famous Rockefeller center. You make it seem like it's for the rich folks only.
She’s got a point about not doing Bus Tours around NYC. Sadly I work for one of them and the working conditions are horrendous! No A/C in the summer, no heat in the winter, the hire ex-felons and don’t care about there loyal employees putting up with the mess. It is time for me to find something Else as I’m doing, but she’s right. These tour bus companies are a joke
When I went to NYC, best tour guide I got was free tours by foot, the tour guide takes you and the group around NYC for a couple of hours and makes it fun and enjoyable, you can chose to pay if you like but you know its nice to give him a few 20 doller notes for showing you NYC.
Where you found him?
@@serafomil8mil online on a website
I simply say to those scammers 'I'm from Brazil, if you get any closer, I'll teach you what's like to be robbed'. Guess having a bad rep sometimes pays up.
LOL 😂
LMAOO
Kenny Holeater Brazilians will eat you for breakfast little jimmy
That was oddly sexy.
I disagree about the Freedom Tower. Everyone should go, then visit the memorial. That site is so emotionally charged, that everyone needs to experience it.
@Beckala67 Sorry, but as someone who lived through it here in NYC, it sickens me, shames me, and infuriates me that there are people profiting off of that overpriced, emotional blackmail of a 'museum'. A good example of a proper memorial is the Wall, commemorating those lost in Vietnam. A public space, free to visit, and inviting quiet contemplation without money changing hands. That is what we need as far as a memorial goes.
@Anon Non 7/11 was a part time job
It's One World Trade Center, not Freedom Tower
I too can not go to this area. The "freedom" park with the lists of things you can not do while there. This sacred ground, now a pricey tourist ride. I can not look into those black pools, endlessly draining those lost, out with the water. Endlessly out into oblivion.! All the lies, still linger, under the new trees and steel.! Oh I can not even speak.
Plus, the bar at Freedom Tower is at the 101st floor.... the view is the best in all of NYC.
AWESOME INFO - thank you! ❤
thanks sarah, you are awesome.
I'm a real NYer. 4th generation. She's right. Listen to her, and there's so much more. Listen to your gut and tkae her advice. I should make one of these videos. I know great places to go, although we've lost a lot of our amazing places due to gentrification. UGH! PLUS we don't like tourists much, so try to fit in.
Mistress Evil I’m a New Yorker and I like tourists
LOL HEY LADY!! That is great. Watch out for people like us that will kick you in the balls, shin or knee for blocking the streets and being disrespectful to the natives. :) Have a rocking day
Don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk, if you need to stop make your way to the edge of the sidewalk. It’s called respect to ppl who are walking. Also if you walk slow please step to the side or be tailed by a grumpy New Yorker.
@@HJules-cw6fb would you really do that? Lol
It's the slow walkers that really get to me.
I really enjoyed this. Quick, concise and to the point on each rip off. More of this kind of content please!
Thank you for your kind words! I'll make more of these!
Hi love your presentation Sarah they're always interesting and captivating all the best to you
Thanks. Awesome info and a big help in making NYC a great place to visit.
Life long New Yorker, Good info but I would consider the freedom tower, go early, make sure you have a clear day, pricy but worth it. Plenty of other things to do on the cheap, walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, it is awesome, the Staten island Ferry is also free, nice ride. Walk the highline, also free.
Great tips!
I agree, you can't go wrong with any of the bridges, really. I've done the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, along with several that separate Manhattan and the Bronx. Roosevelt Island and its tram are sweet too - only costs the equivalent of a subway fare.
Love this super helpful guide! Amazing job!
Thank you!
So I know that she says you shouldn’t do the Big Bus tours because they’re crowded and give bad info, but I do think they’re a much cheaper way of getting around. We did it when we were in London over Christmas and bought a 3 day bus pass. We saved so much money traveling to our destinations and got some cool information here and there. And the buses were never actually too full surprisingly. The big bonus was that we never got lost and always had a map to catch the next bus. Not to mention that some of the guides were so helpful and really friendly. Again this was London so could be different in NY but I’d still give it a try.
Bryant park is one of favourite chill out spots in NYC. Coffee, pastry and watch the world go by, always something going on 👍Looking forward to the next time after watching this.
Over 500 board games and you chose monopoly
Noah Zieche I died of laughter😂
and playing by herself...
JM like a lot of women do these days... 😉.... Ok that was of bad taste... Im out
It's New York. Seems the natural choice.
BAHAHAHHAHA
Why is this recommended to me? I live in NY ffs
who knows lol
SAME LMAO
That’s exactly why lol
Alvary David ikr
Lol same
Very good information!! Thanks!
Great video. Great information.
Never been to NYC, but living in a tourist town I know how quickly anyone standing around looking lost becomes a magnet for the local panhandlers - makes me ashamed but confronting these clowns is best left to the cops. We're heading into the peak of our season right now - when frozen southerners fly north to escape the cold - so this video is timely : thanks for the tips.
Thanks Arthur Watts! If you found this helpful, you might want to check out the other videos in my NYC series here: bit.ly/NYCseries18. Have fun in New York and I hope you subscribed!
Sarah, all I need is 6 numbers tonight and I guarantee you I'm on a plane to LAX (22 hours then I have to rest before the flight to La Guardia). See you in the Square ! ;)
I recommend going to the Macy’s store because it’s literally a mall that’s like 20 feet tall. I also recommend Dylan’s candy bar and the Bloomingdales store right across from it
Dylan’s candy bar is the biggest rip off known to man
Omg thank you thank u thanks 4 that wonderful bit of info.
Another great video from Sarah.
I disagree not going to the Empire State Building! The view is so beautiful, it’s worth it
Ruby Ohana The Freedom Tower is better tho
i agree,i went there 2 years ago.. the view up there is amazing, was worth the money also when I went i didnt have to wait there was no lines and was not crowded, i guess it depends when u go :)
And, it's iconic. Why skip it???
Ana JamzJ Yup! 💗
swarze oz Totally agree with that!👍❤️
Let’s get this straight: these are only tourist traps if you make them tourist traps. I go to Times Square for the pictures at night. I’m obviously not gonna take my family to a rooftop bar, so I take them to the top of the Rock, where I can get a view of both the Empire State Building and One WTC. Whenever a random dude with a pamphlet or a creepy costume approaches me, I put on an arresting face or ignore them completely. If we really wanted to go to a popular museum (which by the way is usually free. Ex: the Met is free for New York Residents, Natural History is free, Whitney museum is free, etc) we plan to go on off days. This rule also applies to everywhere else that is a popular attraction. Lastly, we avoid any chain restaurant, but we also avoid overpriced local/“trendy” restaurants as well. Skip the Times Square red lobster, and skip Katz’s (unless you really want to go there) and instead go to a less popular deli that has equally good food or maybe an authentic hole in the wall Chinese restaurant. Lastly, an even better (in my opinion) option than any form of tours altogether is to read about an attraction beforehand and then do a sort of scavenger hunt. One of the best moments of our trip there recently was when we visited Grand Central Terminal to go up to the Met. Beforehand, my little brother watched a UA-cam video about the terminal, and when we got there, we pointed out things (at our own pace) that we learned about, like the echoing brick ceiling under the entrance, or the single small soot covered brick in the ceiling of the main hall that represented the terminal’s past. If there is a tip I can give: researching and planning an itinerary beforehand will make your trip extremely worthwhile. Find an interest (in our case, it was the history of Manhattan based, but it can be Delis, piers, the parks, etc) and build your trip and destinations around it.
Tourist traps cause people harm. Tourist attractions (what you're referring to) are different. They are the iconic things a city is know for.
You have great suggestions though! Thanks for sharing!
Alphamikee What a keyboard warrior
Alphamikee What a keyboard warrior
Norrington CS
I visit Manhattan often, actually. Let me know if you need travel advice.
Alphamikee Thx for the offer mate if i ever do visit i know who to ask ;)
Love your funky way of explaining !! :D
Says “look at these views”
Shows more buildings...
wish i saw this before going to nyc. my son got rip off by minnie mouse and statue of liberty character. he gave minne twenty then liberty wanted twenty five. my son almost got into a fist fight as he would not let his hand go. was a rip off as they took a photo of us with my sons phone what a scam............. learn our lesson for next trip to the big apple.
Madam Tussauds is complete and utter rubbish. I drive past Tussauds in London daily and I just cannot believe the queue. And the cost. £35 per person. PER PERSON! Utterly ridiculous and daylight robbery.
Hola Sarah. Thank you for the tips! Greetings from Costa Rica!
Excellent vid! Coming to NYC for my first time this October! So stoked!
Well now I learned all the hacks I just need money to go to NYC
Yes, save up!
Mehdi Berbale honestly
Go in the winter.so you wont smell the garbage.this isnt a joke.
hehe...When she said New York has so many things to do, I said "yep, it takes money".
@@shannon2748 but I think it's usually worth it
Tourists, warning: NEVER WALK ON THE BIKE LANES, ITS ANNOYING
I agree it gets way too annoying but another warning to tourists: DON'T WALK ON THE GRATES IF YOU'RE WEARING A DRESS OR SKIRT your welcome
Not to mention, it isn't exactly safe to walk on those grates.
HA yup
Walking over grates, I do it all the time. I’m a New Yorker the only time you want to avoid the grates is if your wearing stilettos or thin heels and if they have steam or smoke coming out of them.
@@khaosCaffe you're exaggerating... I've only fallen through twice
In a week.
Super great Video! Thumbs Up!
I'm fascinated for your tips, thanks, you're soo entertained too, kisses from Chile
I was glad to see the bit about the buy-my-cd guys. I work in midtown and I see tourists fall for this one on 34th street all the time. When I see the scammers have snagged someone, I veer over and warn the tourists and then the scammers yell profanities at me. I’d like to see more videos on these guys and the fake monks.
That's so nice of you Carl! Thanks for keeping our city safe for all! I agree about the monk thing. I forgot to include that here. I did include it in my updated article on tourist traps. If you have any ones that aren't included here, please let me know: bit.ly/NYCscam
Great video, Sarah!
I'm an English teacher down in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - the land of scams. That said, often times we're naive to believe everyone in northern countries is totally trustworthy. I'll try and remember those tips next time I come to NY.
Love the city, by the way
I love you!Thank you for all the info!
Thanks very helpfull tips!
U forgot to mention Staten Island Ferry. It's free and great views. Don't be alarmed with large crowds that you would be missing the view. The boats are so big and once you get in there; so roomy and you can see the views from all sides.
@Rick M Singel yeah. The Staten Island Ferry is the best way to see the skyline for free. Even with the COVID outbreak still can enjoy it social distanced. Ferry is huge for sure.
I’m from NYC and something about you makes me think you’re not from here...is it just me? I doubt it.
NYC Is The Capital Of The World, The Financial Center Of The Universe (Wall Street), The Theater Center Of Gravity (Times Square), The Sports Capital Of The World (The NY Yankees = 27 World ChampionShips, The NY Knicks And MSG "The World's Greatest Arena", The Brooklyn Nets And The Barclays' Center, The NY Islanders And The Nassau Coliseum, The NY Cyclones And The MCU Park, The Staten Island Yankees And The Richmond County Ballpark, And Finally The NY Jets And The NY Giants At The Metlife Stadium In The Meadowlands.), The Educational Center Of The Universe With CUNY, SUNY, CCNY, Columbia University, Cornell University, NYU "The Largest Private University In The Entire World", The Media Center Of Gravity With NBC, Fox, WPIX, Steiner Studios, ABC, Silvercup Studios, Etc., The Largest Park System In Any Major City (Central Park, The High Line Park, Prospect Park, Sunset Park, Flushing Meadowlands Corona Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Hudson River Park, Et Al.), The Most "First Quality Museums" Anywhere (The Brooklyn Museum, The Museum Mile, The American Museum Of Natural History, The South Street Seaport Museum, The Skyscraper Museum, The Jewish Heritage Museum, The American Indian Museum, The 9/11 Museum And Memorial Plaza, The Chinese Heritage Museum, The American Museum Of Finance, Etc.), And The Largest Subway System Anywhere (Which By The Way Should Be Free). Did I Say That Those Who Refuse To Come To NYC Are Missing In Life 99.9% Of The Human Experience? Most Of Everything That Happens In NYC Is Affordable Or Free. Let's Take A Look. All Parks Around The City Are Free, All Malls Are Free, All The Museums Have Special Days Which Are Free, All Libraries Are Free, All Neighborhoods Are Free To Walk, Shop, Entertain, Relax, Admire, And Daydream Shopping., All Parades, Festivals, And Celebrations Are Free, And There Are Many More Free Things In Details Like The Staten Island Ferry For Closer Looks At The USS Ships, The Statue Of Liberty, And Governor's Island Which Has Free Programming, Concerts, Movies, And Special Events During The Summer Months As Due All Public Parks. There Is An Infinite Amount Of Free Things That Can Be Done In NYC.
#ChampionShipStyleGoldenSupreme
#InChampionShipWeTrust
#GBFIRSTNYC
PS. Some Of The Great Neighborhoods For Shopping Are: The Upper East Side, The Upper West Side, Washington Heights, Harlem, Penn Station, Times Square, Fifth Avenue, Park Avenue, Broadway, Little Korea, Little Italy, SOHO, NOHO, NOLITA, The Financial District, Park Slope, Sunset Park, Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, Carroll Gardens, Bed Stuy, Williamsburg, Bushwick, East New York, Eastern Parkway, Midwood, Bay Ridge, Bensonhurst, Canarsie, Crown Heights, Astoria, Flushing, LIC, Pelham Bay Park, The South Bronx, And Even The Jones Beach Neighborhood On Nearby Nassau County. The Greater Metropolitan NYC Reaches Long Island, Upstate NY, New Jersey, Conneticut, And Pennsylvania To Name A Few.
#GBFIRSTNYC
@@BrisasDelCampo888 Get a Job!
She's not from here. She said something about tipping at restaurant. I don't tip.
She is from there and she's actually a tour guide.
Wow great tips! Thanks
Great tips thanks
Came back from New York City Manhattan and honestly it was a great trip! Times Square was a amazing and I wished I could come back and enjoy the sight seeing and landmarks in the city! Of course it was crowded, however, it was worth the trip!
I agree about not using the tourist buses. It's much cheaper to get a metrocard and use public transport and Google maps! That's what I did when I was there 5 weeks ago.
@80ist4ever The Metrocard will also get you on a bus. No open top deck though.
That said, I hear the TCM tour of iconic movie locations is rather good.
I just found your videos and I love them!! You make me feel close to home. 🤍🤍👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽
Priceless! Thank u
The view from WTC, ESB and Top of the Rock are better than roofs..
But when you’re up there you can’t see basically anything, trust me I know, you’re too high to really see anything except clusters of buildings. It’s just kinda boring.
Exactly
Nice
Top of the rock hands down. Less crowded, and you can see the Empire State building and Central Park
Great Video....very practical and such a happy little "Cutey"!!!!!!
I'm glad you loved it Ray Whitsell. I hope you subscribed (if you haven't already)! Thank you! :)
Great information
Wonderful explaination
I miss nyc!! I went there this past summer with my dog as a solo trip. It was such an amazing experience.
Even in his grave, Rockfeller is making money by ripping people off.
Spell Check Chief! How Old Are You Boss?
Spell Check Cindy! How Old Are You? Did You Ever Learn How To Spell The Word City?
CHAMPIONSHIP SPORTS SUPERSTAR NETWORK I think the joke went over your head...
Great advice!!
Sarah:
I am really glad that you put this video together. It's about time someone warned people about Times Square, your busses etc. In addition, I would like to add this: Brooklyn has an excellent art museum, aquarium and zoo. Another museum is the NYCTA Museum in downtown Brooklyn. And finally you're so right about using the subway to get around. I learned a long time ago that the best way to get around is to use the local buses and trains.
I just disagree on two things:
1) the alternative views suggested are great, but the point of going to the Empire State is to view almost the WHOLE city from above!
I’d recommend the Rockfeller center, where you can view both the Empire State and the Central Park.
2) the museums: are you really telling to skip the Metropolitan, Moma and Natural History? These are among the world’s greatest museums!
It’s like telling a tourist to skip the Louvre in Paris, or the British in London!
I love the videos. I'm a real New Yorker and all you say is so true
Thank you so much!
Dude youre living one of my dreams!!!
Jason Rupp same
@@solihtary7869 the dream of living in nyc?
Jason Rupp I do live in NYC if that’s what you mean lol
Thanks appreciate the tips
Thank you for the great information
I pull off a great tourist scam. When I go to foreign cities, I buy a cheap pair of coveralls that match whatever local workers wear, then impersonate an air conditioner repair man and sign into buildings to get to their roofs to take photos (or find alternate access) - it's still a tourist scam, because I'm a tourist, and I'm scamming free awesome photos of a skyline only penthouse owners would see. :D
yellow cabs are another major tourist trap...use uber/lyft instead. or if you have to use yellow cab know where youre going and the route. otherwise cabby will take you the longest way possible. used a cab from laguardia to broklynn cost me $45..uber charged $27 on my way back.
True!
Eeeehhhh I'm no so sure about this. In my opinion it depends on the day since uber and Lyft have those weird algorithms I one had to pay 21 dollars to get from the museum of the moving image to gantry park area
Keep taxis alive them guy's are Committing suicide cuz them uber drivers, you take a uber it takes them twice as long to get from point a to point b
actually I was in the uber for 30 mins..the taxi took me an hour and the cabby told me ( once i started complaining about how long the ride is taking)told me he had a ride the day before for 2 hours ..Uber doesn't charge the same way taxis do, so it is in not in their best interest to keep a single ride in their car longer than necessary.
It honestly depends on where you are going. Cabs have went down after the strike because of Uber and Lyft. Plus the time of day impacts the apps.
This video saw indeed helpful thanks !
Thank you! This was great! I will be going to New York in a month and this was so helpful
So glad it's helpful! Have a great time on your trip!
Thank you I’m going to New York in March and this has really opened my eyes to a lot so thanks for that
I think most of the things she said are not traps. They are actually the things you should do as a first timer in New York. The experience are amazing. For someone that lives in New York it wouldn't make sense. Try and read other people's comment.
Just don’t eat at any chain restaurants in NYC
Agreed!
That should be a rule wherever you travel. 🙂
Doesn’t matter where you go in the world. My crappers an pizza ba hut always kick ass
MrIamcrusty as a Californian myself Pizza Hut is good but if you have ever visited NYC you should try the local pizza places there
speak for yourself. when i crave freaking taco bell, imma get that shiet.
Great content