City Population:
8,008,278
Elevation:
54 ft.
Sales Tax:
The sales tax in New York City is 8.375 percent. The tax on hotel rooms is 13.38 percent plus $1.50 per room, per day occupancy fee. Car rental tax is 13.62 percent.
Whom To Call
Emergency:
911
Police (non-emergency):
Use local precinct phone number.
Hospitals:
Beth Israel Medical Center, (718) 252-3000; Elmhurst Hospital Center, in Flushing, (718) 334-4000; Mount Sinai Hospital, (212) 241-6500; New York-Presbyterian Hospital, (212) 746-5454; New York University Medical Center, (212) 263-7300.
Where to Look
Newspapers
New York City has numerous English and foreign language newspapers. The most popular English language papers are Newsday, New York Daily News, New York Post, New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
Radio
New York radio stations WCBS (880 AM) and WINS (1010 AM) are all news/weather stations; WNYC (93.9 FM or 820 AM) is a member of National Public Radio.
Visitor Information
NYC & Company Visitor Information Center: 810 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019; phone (212) 484-1222, (212) 397-8222, or (800) 692-8474 for visitors' literature.
What to Pack
The best times to visit New York are spring and fall. Not only is the weather more comfortable than in summer and winter, but the scenery is downright breathtaking. May and October daytime high temperatures are generally in the mid- to upper 60s. Dress moderately—slacks, jacket and comfortable footwear are appropriate—and bring a slightly heavier sweater or coat for cooler evening temperatures.
Summer in New York City can be stifling unless you are near the coast, where cool sea breezes temper the heat. For summer sightseeing bring lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and comfortable sneakers or thick-soled sandals (the pavement can get very hot).
New York winters can be trying. Daytime temperatures average in the upper 30s or low 40s; at night temperatures can drop into the 20s. Although most of your sightseeing will be indoors, winter gear should be layered in order to acclimate to warm restaurants and crowded theaters.