Exploring NYC as an Expat

Guide to places to visit and things to do,
when you are living as an expat in New York

When you are living as an expat in New York, exploring the city will come naturally, in order to get to know it better and learn to find your way around the place.

New York City is a place where everyone can find something to do. For that reason, there is no wonder why a city like this is one of the most attractive places for many expats. You already know how unique life in NYC is, and if you want to experience it, you need to know how to prepare. So, if you want to fully enjoy exploring NYC as an expat, you are going to find this simple guide very helpful.

It's easy to see that expat life in New York City is very different from life in many other popular places. Every year, thousands of expats move to the Big Apple to make their dreams of living in New York come true. Being in one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in the States gives people the chance to meet people from their home country.

Before you start exploring NYC as an expat

When you start living in NYC as an expat and before you find a job, you can explore the city. If you are deciding on whether to come to New York to look for a job or to try and ensure one in your own country, there are some things you need to consider. You should know that NYC is an expensive city and being here without an income, even for a short time, can be very costly. Unless you are lucky enough to have friends or relatives that are willing to be your hosts during your job hunt.

Before you start exploring NYC as an expat, be mindful of your time and money, which can be a rather costly exercise unless you plan well your activities and expenses.

In a city like this time is of the essence for expats! The longer you are in a job or apartment hunt, the more money you will lose. So, if you want to do this, you need to be well prepared because life in NYC is going to cost you a lot. And in that price, you need to include everything - from the job hunt and apartment search to, of course, the cost of your NYC relocation. Meanwhile, since you are here, you can go out and start exploring this beautiful city.

Times Square

Times Square is one of the 10 best-rated tourist attractions in New York City. While some will spend hours shopping in Times Square, others will spend time watching and being amazed by the billboards. That is exactly why flashing neon lights and giant digital billboards are what makes this place so amazing. This can be your first stop when exploring NYC as an expat. Here, there are brilliant Broadway marquees, and you can also find many costumed characters and musicians. You see, Times Square is a big, bright and unforgettable place to visit.

Central Park is a great location for exploring NYC as an expat

Your next stop should be Central Park. This place is one of the greatest tourist attractions, and it's a must-see. Here you’ll be able to discover endless things to do. You can find so many different ventures, attractions, events, and concerts. And when it comes to activities, there are tours, sports, yoga, and fitness classes. For kids, there are many children's activities, and of course, the Central Park Zoo. This place is located in the heart of Manhattan. It's huge, and if taking a walk through it sounds appealing, you will need about a couple of hours. While doing that you can see places like the Sheep Meadow, the Shakespeare Garden, and Belvedere Castle, which are also must-see attractions here.

Central Park is one of the best known places in New York, where you can take time to get away from the crowds, but also find many interesting things and happenings.

Dining in NYC

You should know that finding the best restaurant in New York City might be harder than you would imagine. That is simply because you are going to encounter so many great places. And while exploring NYC dining, you will probably have one favorite restaurant for every cuisine. In the Big Apple, any restaurant can be the best - depending on your preferences. Sometimes, you need to check out a few places to find which New York restaurants are going to be the best option for you.

Nightlife in NYC

When you are exploring NYC as an expat, you are going to see how amazing this place is during the day. But, when night comes, you will realize why New York is a city that never sleeps. You will see that without the crowds and commerce, the city comes even more alive after dusk.

Nightlife in NYC is continuously changing and expanding, and that is what makes it unique. And because of that, you should know that DJ-driven clubs are not the only reason why this place is so special. Here, you can also find many late-night restaurants, cocktail bars, and even after-hours sports and recreation. That’s really no wonder since NYC is one of the most diverse cities in the USA. So, whether you’re looking for a way to entertain yourself or meet someone new, you will be more than welcome in NYC. All you have to do is to go out, find a place you like and dance till the sun goes up.

In New York you won't be short of live shows, concerts and other interesting performances.

Other places you should visit while exploring NYC as an expat

Here are some more things to do and places to explore in New York city as an expatriate:

 Guided tours

Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours, the Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tours, Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour, etc.

 Waterfront attractions

the Liberty Cruise which gets up close to the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, Best of NYC Cruise to see Manhattan skyline from the water.

 Skyline views

You should head to either the Top of the Rock or Empire State Building.

 Museums

9/11 Memorial & Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Museum of Modern Art, etc.

Conclusion

When it comes to exploring NYC as an expat, you will have no trouble. All you have to do is to prepare well and everything will be just fine. But, there is something you should know before you start your adventure here. You see, people from various countries are going to need a valid visa and residence permit. That's why before you decide to move or travel here, you need to consult a US embassy and an immigration lawyer for additional information.

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