City guide article

New York fast facts

New York City is made up of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. It uses Eastern Time and the U.S. dollar, and English is the main public-service language alongside extensive multilingual support. The emergency number is 911; 311 handles non-emergency city information and services. The standard electrical supply is 120 volts with Type A and B plugs.

City guideVisitor Information

Overview

The city is large enough that two addresses described as 'New York' may be far apart. Read the borough, neighborhood and nearest transit station before travelling, and group each day geographically. Tap water is officially monitored and safe, while weather, service changes and major events can alter a route. Confirm current details through NYC, MTA and operator sources rather than relying on an old screenshot.

The five boroughs are also five counties: Manhattan is New York County, Brooklyn is Kings County, Queens shares its borough and county name, the Bronx is Bronx County and Staten Island is Richmond County. Borough and county terminology therefore appears across addresses, courts, public records and transport information, while neighborhood names remain the more familiar reference in everyday city life.

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Visa and entry requirements

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Best time to visit New York

New York is a year-round city, but the most comfortable periods for long walking days are usually spring and autumn. Temperatures can still move quickly, so pack layers and check the National Weather Service forecast close to travel. Ramadan, school holidays, major sporting events and large conventions can change hotel demand and the practical rhythm of a visit.

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New York climate guide

New York has a humid continental climate and four distinct seasons. Summer can be hot and humid, with thunderstorms and periods of dangerous heat. Winter is cold, and snow, freezing rain or strong coastal systems can affect streets, airports and rail. Spring and autumn are transitional, so a mild afternoon may sit beside a cold morning or wet evening.

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Money and currency

The local currency is the United States dollar. The Federal Reserve issues notes in seven circulating denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Cards and contactless payments are common across hotels, shops, restaurants and transport, but a modest amount of cash can still help with small purchases, gratuities or a temporary card problem.

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