New York is surely one of the most expensive cities in the world; however, even in an expensive city, travelers can find things to do on a low budget. When planning a modest budget trip to New York, keep track of these things that could blow your budget.

Taxi cost

To avoid any unpleasant surprises, make sure that you understand how taxi services charge. Taxi fare starts at $2.50 plus $.40 per additional fifth of a mile or for each 60 seconds waiting in traffic plus 10-20% tip. However, one fare covers all four passengers, so try to split the fare. The best way to lower you transportation expense is to use the subway and purchase a Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard for $15 which is good for 11 rides. You can also take a bus or, for the cheapest deal, walk.

Empire State Building Tour

Visiting ESB can be tricky; it costs $15 more to go from the 86th floor to the 102nd floor. Think upfront about how much you want to see those views; if you travel with a family that extra $15 will add up! However, there are discount prices on children and seniors' admission, and you can find a better deal by buying a CityPass that includes six attractions for $65.

TV Shows

The "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" show is absolutely free, but keep in mind, this show fills up quickly. Because it will take you a few months to get a ticket, you have to plan on attending the show far in advance. For ticket information, go online at the NBC Experience Store at www.nbcuniversalstore.com

Hotels

Make reservations ahead of time and don't forget to print out your reservation confirmation page and bring it with you when you check in; there is the possibility that a busy receptionist can forget to ask you about your reservation and give you the current price, which might be double the rate you were quoted. Prices for hotels go up fast, especially in summer. Also, don't forget to tip the bellman carrying your luggage ($1 per bag). In general, be prepared to pay tips in NYC a lot.

Parking

Parking cost in the Big Apple can be surprising and unexpected; keep in mind, many hotels don't have their own parking lot and those that do, charge for parking per day. Make sure you check your hotel's parking rates because they vary wildly. Some charge $30-60 with some rates being as much as $200 per night in the more exclusive sections of Manhattan.

Turnpike Tolls, Plane & Train Fare

Don't forget about the many tolls you will pay when using the turnpike and the various bridges and tunnels between New York and New Jersey. Also, don't make last minute purchases of plane or train tickets; NYC is a Mecca for an enormous number of tourists and tickets sell out very fast. If you can get a last minute ticket, chances are good that you will pay dramatically more for it, especially in the summer or Christmas time.

Learn more about this author, Polina Gogol.
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