Preparing for your trip to New York: the mandatory formalities
The plane tickets
Of course, the first thing to do is buy your plane tickets. Choose the period you want to leave, then compare the different tickets plane on the internet. Note that the more flexible your dates, the more likely you are to find cheaper tickets. I also advise you to take a look at our tips section very regularly, you will often find plane tickets for less than € 300 round trip.
THE ESTA
Once your tickets have been taken, go to the official ESTA website by clicking here, in order to complete the necessary form. Take the time to answer the few questions you will be asked, and don't make mistakes. You will then pay around $ 15 online, and just have to wait for a positive response.
This document will give you the authorization to enter the territory as a tourist, for a 3 months duration. This obviously does not concern people who already have a visa other than tourist.
Note that this request can be made up to 72 hours before your departure. That said, prefer it done in advance, in order to be reassured, and to avoid any last minute problem. In fact, remember that if your ESTA application is refused, you will need to apply for another visa. So I advise you to do it at least a month in advance.
Prepare for your trip to New York: accommodation and transport
Accommodation in New York
Once the administrative formalities box has been checked, you will need to take care of your accommodation to prepare your trip to New York. Again, the earlier you do this, the more likely you are to find the right deal.
Also, house prices will largely depend on when you travel to New York. If you plan to go during the holidays and school holidays, prices can double compared to a low period!
So do your research in advance and compare the different options: hotels, hostels, Airbnb, apartments, etc.
Tip: If you are heading to a hotel, I really advise you to use the Booking site, which always offers the best prices.
Book your hotel on Booking here
Transportation from the airport to accommodation
Once you've chosen your little New York cocoon, find out how to get from the airport to your accommodation. Once again, there are different options available to you: train, shuttle, metro, bus, taxi and even limousine! All this will of course depend on your desires and your budget.
The shuttle, train and metro options are quite attractive. That said, if you opt for the shuttle, remember to book in advance to secure a seat and great rates. If you are in a group, this is the cheapest and most convenient option.
Book your shuttle here
Preparing for your trip to New York: main attractions and guided tours
Then, here is arguably the most interesting part, which you are looking forward to: the city tour! The Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, the Met Museum or the Museum of Modern Art… All this requires entrance tickets, which will be very expensive if you take them separately and on site.
Also, opting for a New York City Pass or a New York Pass is essential. This will allow you to access the main attractions of the city at reduced prices. In addition, these two passes offer benefits such as discounts at certain stores and restaurants.
So order your pass online to benefit from 40% discount !
Book your New York City Pass here
If you're worried that you won't get enough with the New York City Pass, then I can only advise you to take the New York Pass and the 80 attractions it provides access to.
Book your New York Pass here
Prepare your trip to New York: book your outings and extras
A helicopter ride
Finally, for good prepare your trip to New York, do not forget to plan a unforgettable experience, like a helicopter ride over Manhattan. This will allow you to admire the city from above, while listening to the anecdotes of your pilot.
You will have the choice between different durations (from 12 to 25 minutes), according to your budget and desires. Also, and even if you are not forced to reserve in advance, this will allow you to secure a place. Once done, you will only have to arrive about 15 minutes before, and let's go!
Book your helicopter tour
A comedy on Broadway
Once night falls, New York City is full of activities, each more exciting than the next! And one of the things you owe it to yourself to do before you go home is to watch a comedy on Broadway.
The Lion King, Aladdin, the Snow Queen, you will be spoiled for choice! Also, although you may be able to purchase your tickets once there and that night, it is possible that the comedy you want to see is sold out, or that the prices have increased significantly.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, go online in advance to buy your ticket at the best price.
Book your Broadway musical
