9 Tips For Tourists Visiting Manhattan.

Here are nine small tips for anyone visiting the Big Apple.

1. Make Sure the Light is Lit.

Via hdrcreme.com

On the top of every yellow cab in New York there is a sign that says 'on duty.' If its not lit then the cab is not available so don't waste your energy putting your arm in the air to hail it, it won't stop.

2. Stay Away From Gypsy Cabs

Via blogs.villagevoice.com

These are usually black cars. The driver will approach you and ask you if you need a ride and then charge you whatever they feel like. Sometimes 80 to 100 dollars for a thirty block ride and they only accept cash. If they offer, politely decline. Take a yellow cab.

3. The Little One Only Takes Debit/Credit.

Via Flickr: walkingsf

This is what the machine looks like to purchase a metro card. They are in every station. The smaller ones only take debit/credit. As far as paying with cash, most machines don't give change greater than 6 dollars. So don't try and buy a single ride with a 20 dollar bill.

4. Cigarettes Are Expensive.

Via hiphoprepublican.com

If you smoke be aware, cigarettes are anywhere from 13-15 dollars for one pack.

Basically everything is New York is expensive. Food, Alcohol, Transportation, Deodorant etc.

5. There Are Other Places to get Coffee Besides Starbucks.

Via ilovetheupperwestside.com

Don't get me wrong, Starbucks is great. But New York has some amazing coffee shops that give a much different experience than Starbucks. Joe's is one of my favorites. There is about 8 or 9 locations in Manhattan. A great place if you are looking to sit down and have a nice latte or cappuccino from a ceramic mug. They do amazing latte art and there baristas are very well trained.

6. Don't Be Afraid to Bargain.

Via nytix.com

Especially with street vendors. Whether they are selling knock-offs purses or old movie scripts don't be afraid to bargain. Just because they tell you 40 dollars for that fake MK clutch doesn't mean you have to whip out two twenties. Bargain. The vendor will most likely give it to you for cheaper if you play the game right.

7. The Place For Discount Tickets to Broadway Shows.

Via archpaper.com

Under the red steps in Time Square sits the TKTS booth. Here you can purchase discounted Tickets to popular Broadway shows.

8. Don't Talk to Street Solicitors.

Via newyorkcliche.com

These people prey on the naïve tourist that roam Manhattan. Anyone standing in the streets handing out flyers, 'free' samples, a 'free' copy of their album, trying to strike up a conversation with you, etc. Avoid them. You will most likely end up being sucked in and pressured into purchasing something or giving a donation. Nothing in this New York is free. Except the gum that sticks to the bottom of your shoe.

9. Not All New Yorkers are Rude.

Via mrbrucru.net

We apologize for this reputation. But squeeze 10 million people on one tiny island and we are bound to get frustrated with each other at some point. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Just don't ask that woman who is in a rush or that man who looks grumpy because he just planted his new Gucci loafers in dog poop. Ask the sweet and kind server at the cupcake shop or the smiling blonde guy walking his Basset Hound.