Practical information
New York, the city that never sleeps. Check out the overview below before taking off to NYC!
- Weather: The climate in New York offers the full four seasons - extreme highs in the summer months (June to September) of 27-32 degrees celsius and freezing cold temperatures in the winter (December to March) that regularly reach below -15 degrees celsius. However, spring (March to June) and autumn (September to December) are the two most balanced seasons to visit. Although spring can still be quite chilly with temperatures averaging 10-20 degrees celsius, sunny days are frequent as the city wakes up after hibernation. When the leaves begin to fall in autumn, warm days averaging 12-25 degrees celsius, bring cooler nights.
- Time zone: New York is on Eastern Standard Time in the United States. Dublin is 5 hours ahead of New York.
- Currency: The US Dollar. €1 = $1.14 (fluctuating average)
- Language: The official language in New York is US English.
- Required travel documents: The rules and regulations of travel documents and visa applications change frequently. There can also be different requirements. On the website of the visa service the required and current information is listed.
- Health: Information about the (mandatory) vaccinations change constantly. Current information can be found on Travel Health Pro and NHS or consult your GP surgery.
- Money: Most New Yorkers use credit cards. It is best to bring enough cash for your first day and from there use ATM services or a credit card.
- Insurance: Valid health insurance is a personal choice, but not a mandatory requirement.
- GPS Maps: Make sure to always have a map at hand. To avoid roaming costs, download a New York App that is accessible offline.
- Outlet plug: Outlets are made for flat two-prong plugs. Make sure you bring an adaptor to convert your three-prong plug.
- Important dates in New York: New Year’s Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January), Valentine’s Day (February), Presidents’ Day (February), St. Patrick’s Day (March), Tartan Week (April) Easter (April/May), Mother’s Day (May), Fleet Week (May), New York Gay Pride (June), 4th of July (July), Labor Day (September), 9/11 (September), Columbus Day (October), Halloween (October), Veterans Day (November), Thanksgiving, Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, Black Friday (November), Christmas (December), New Year’s Eve (December).
- Tipping: Tipping in restaurants in New York is very important as it makes up an essential part of your waiter’s wages. New Yorkers are good tippers and usually won’t tip less than 18% in restaurants.
- Drinking age: The legal drinking age for the consumption of alcohol is 21 years old. The policy is strictly implemented and children are often refused entry into bars.
- Safety: As far as large cities go, New York is very safe. However, like anywhere in the world, it is best to always be aware of your surroundings and ensure your belongings are with you at all times.