I've been to New York before, and if you were to go without a plan you'd be overwhelmed when you see the enormity of the city. They (the so-called experts) said that part of the experience and "fun" was getting lost: you're really having fun when you get lost in Manhattan. This is true to an extent. Sure the chance encounters in NY would be memories all to itself, but you'll get more out of your experience if you were to accomplish something. The serendipitous moments would be extra treats/bonus instead.
***My goal was to see the Empire State building and to see the Asian Art collection in the Metropolitan Art Museum.
I had to limit myself to these two so I had a focus. This was my third attempt to go to the Empire. In the past I was daunted and hindered by its block-long line. This was my third trip to the Met also. The Met is huge. The first time I went there, I arrived 30 minutes before they closed. I had only time to glanced through the two-story gift shop in the main lobby and passed by the Egyptian exhibit while trying to look for the rest room. The second time I went, I had an hour and a half. I focused in on the Greek and Roman antiquities and a bit on the Egyptian. While looking for the cafe with my friends we passed by really quickly some European paintings.
To help me with the schedules of bus ride and museum/site hours, map and getting around NY, I borrowed a book in the library called The Rough Guide to New York City. I found this really helpful and informative. It also gave me confidence to go out there.
Budget
I had $100 to spend. This was possible for a day trip (not staying over night of course). This even included a round trip bus fare to NY from Philadelphia. In this budget, I didn't include super expensive unnecessary souvenirs. Pictures and memory of the trip would suffice as souvenirs.
Transportation:
Chinatown Bus- $20.00 roundtrip (my photography teacher told me about this)
Unlimited Ride MetroCard (1 Day Fun Pass) $7.00
Sites:
Empire State Building (86th floor observatory and skyride) $34.00
The Metropolitan Art Museum (The Asian Art Section) $7.00
Miscellaneous:
Food $12.00
Souvenirs $20.00
I am so proud of you. You planned amazingly well. New York City can be a very expensive (and wonderful) place.
Next time I go, I am taking some pointers from you. There is so much to experience there that you -need- to limit your excursions.
Wow. $100. That's great.
Posted by: Amanda at January 9, 2006 12:14 AM