Driving In New York City
New York City has an expansive public transportation system, probably one of the most efficient transportation systems in the world. To get around the city, you only need to jump into its vast network of subway trains, railroad trains, buses, ferries and the aerial commuter tramway. This does not include the estimated 12,000 yellow taxis speeding through New York City’s thoroughfares. In addition, the streets of New York City are very friendly to pedestrians and cyclists alike.
The public transportation system of New York City is so great, so much that it is the only major city in the United States where more than 50 percent of households do not count a car among its assets. This is a stark contrast to the rest of the United States, where it is common to have two cars parked inside the garage or on the driveway of an ordinary household.
To fully experience New York City, a tourist should make it a point to use the public transport system when exploring the city. But of course, if the traveler has limited time and wishes to save time in getting from one point to another in the city, he should get a car from a car rental service in New York City. Better yet, he should get a chauffeur to go with the car for better convenience.
Renting a Car in New York City
Though the public transport system is the best way to go around New York City, there are dozens of car rental companies that hire out different types of rental cars in all the five boroughs. If you prepare early and book early, you can get the exact car for rent according to your needs.
To get the best deal from a car rental service in New York City, here are a few tips you can bear in mind:
- A big rental company has outlets and branches worldwide. Be loyal to just one rental company and join their frequent renter program. These companies give special treatment to their recurrent customers.
- Though you should have a primary provider for your car rental services, have a backup just in case the car you want is unavailable, or the rates of your primary provider are too high in New York City.
- Take the time to check out the car rental service company’s website, if they have one. You might stumble upon a good deal there.
- If you are enrolled in a frequent flyer program, see if the points that you have can be translated to deals and discounts with your car rental provider.
- Always ask for a non-smoking car. A non-smoking car is always newer, cleaner and in better condition.
NY.com has a comprehensive list of car rental companies offering their services in New York. For a list of shuttles and limousines, there is one available at NYCTourist.com. Visit their websites for more details.
Are You Brave Enough?
Driving as a tourist in a big city can be a true adventure, especially if the big city is New York City. Do you think you can survive the busy thoroughfares of the Big Apple driving your rental car? For better chances of survival, feel free to partake of these New York City driving tips.
- Never drink and drive. This is going to sound offensive, but it is stupid to drink and drive. The City of New York has stricter laws on driving under the influence and your car, whether rented or not, can be taken from you if you get caught.
- Make sure you got a car insurance. Does this need commenting in a city with crazy traffic as in NYC??
- There is no such thing as a right turn on red in New York City. Unless it is specified on a traffic sign, making a right turn when there is a red light after making a full stop is illegal in New York City.
- Gridlocks are bad. If you are going to drive through an intersection, be very, very sure that you can get past it. Otherwise, you will get caught in a gridlock and you will be fined.
- If your car is towed, call the police. If you managed to get your rented car towed, get in touch with the local police station to find out where and how you can get your rented car back. There is a warehouse near the pier on the western side of Manhattan where towed cars are stored.
- Do not honk. Unless it is really, really necessary, do not honk your car horn, especially when passing residential areas. The fine for violators is steep at $100.
- Never open your window to strangers. If you are driving along and someone approaches your car as you stop at a red light, either to beg, to sell something or to clean your windows, just ignore them. Open your windows at your own peril