Is New York Safe or Not? Helpful Tips for Visitors

With its world-renowned museums and attractions and its unique architecture, New York City is a great place to visit. However, no matter how much excitement it is said to hold for everyone, it also has a tainted reputation. This may be due to the different movies and literature that placed emphasis on New York’s bad side.

If you are one of the people who believe this image, then you have another think coming. Believe it or not, New York is one of the top ten safest cities in the US. However, much like in other places, you need to take caution and be careful if you are planning a New York city break.

Make Common Sense Common

As you go around the city, make sure that you do not make it obvious that you are a tourist. Avoid walking around as you brandish your map. Instead of whipping out your tourist guide as you go from one place to another, try to plan your route the night before you go sightseeing. This way, you will be able to walk confidently and become less of a target for common crooks.

While walking around the streets of the city, make sure that you keep your eye on your personal belongings, especially on your valuables. Avoid putting your bag, your jacket, and other stuff down on any place where it can easily be picked up by a passer by. Make sure that you keep your phone, your camera, and your wallet inside your bag. Cling to your bag as if you are holding on for your dear life, without making it too obvious that you are paranoid or scared.

If you would need to use an ATM, then you need to make sure that you put your defenses up and keep a close eye on your surroundings. If a suspicious individual or group is in the vicinity of the machine, then it will be on your best interest to walk away and find another ATM. You will surely not have any problem in finding another cash machine that you can use because there are ATMs in almost every street in New York City. Avoid withdrawing and carrying big amounts of money too, to be on the safe side.

Avoid the Dark

While it is a fact that majority of the cities territory remains safe after sundown, it will be a great idea for you to take special care of yourself and your belongings if you are planning to go out at night. Stick to lively and well-lit streets if you are planning to get a first-hand experience of the New York nightlife. If you are not sure about how you can go from one place to another, then try to find a cab or a private car service that will make your nighttime adventure safer. If possible, carry some form of self-defense, like a pepper spray for example, that you can use in order to protect yourself in case something unfortunate happens.