Keto Mbiri’s City Guide to New York City, USA

“The Big Apple That Never Sleeps”

Hey fam! It’s your boy Keto Mbiri from Grupsy City Travel, and I’ve just landed in New York City — the energy here hits you like a shot of espresso! From the glowing lights of Times Square to the quiet charm of Central Park, NYC is a city that doesn’t just welcome you — it swallows you whole and makes you part of the vibe.

🕰️ A Little History – The City of Dreams

Founded in 1624 as a Dutch trading post, New York was originally called New Amsterdam. By the late 19th century, millions of immigrants passed through Ellis Island, with the Statue of Liberty greeting them as a symbol of hope. Today, it’s the world’s financial, cultural, and media powerhouse — a true melting pot.

👥 The People – Fast-Talking, Big-Dreaming

New Yorkers are bold, direct, and always on the move. They’ve got no time for nonsense, but they’ll help you if you’re lost. Want to sound local?

“How you doin’?” – Classic NYC greeting.
“I’m walkin’ here!” – The unofficial city motto (best said while dodging a cab).

✈️ Getting There – Gateway to the World

New York has three major airports: JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR). Flights arrive from everywhere on the planet.

Skip the yellow cab hustle and pre-book a Hoppa New York transfer for a smooth ride into Manhattan.
👉 Book your New York transfers with Hoppa here

🏨 Where to Stay – My Top NYC Picks

Here’s my Zenhotels list for every budget:

Budget: Pod 51 Hotel – Compact, stylish, and central.
Mid-range: The New Yorker Hotel – Iconic Art Deco vibes, steps from Penn Station.
Luxury: The Plaza Hotel – Legendary 5-star luxury on Fifth Avenue.

🎯 Top Tours & Attractions

NYC is endless, but here are my Viator must-dos:

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour – The classic NYC experience.
👉 Book it here
Broadway Show Tickets – Because no trip to New York is complete without it.
👉 Book it here
Empire State Building Observatory – For that jaw-dropping skyline view.
👉 Book it here

🍲 Food & Drink – Big Flavours, Bigger Portions

Two foodie stops I recommend:

Katz’s Delicatessen – Legendary pastrami sandwiches that will ruin all others for you.
Joe’s Pizza – Classic New York slice, hot, thin, and foldable.

Don’t forget a bagel with cream cheese in the morning, and maybe a craft cocktail in Brooklyn by night.

🚇 Local Transport – Subway Life

Subway – Fast, cheap, and runs 24/7.
Yellow Cabs/Uber/Lyft – Iconic, but traffic is wild.
Walking – Honestly the best way to see neighborhoods like SoHo, Greenwich Village, or Harlem.
Ferries – Staten Island Ferry is FREE and gives great Statue of Liberty views.

🔐 Safety – Big City Street Smarts

Stick to well-lit areas at night.
Keep an eye on your bags in crowded places.
Avoid unlicensed cabs — stick with Hoppa, yellow taxis, or ride-hailing apps.

🌍 Keto’s Final Word: NYC = The World in One City

New York is alive 24/7. It’s a city of dreamers and hustlers, where every block has a story. Whether you’re chasing art, food, history, or just the thrill of the city lights — NYC delivers.

Ready to experience New York like I did?
Book your Zenhotels stay, your Viator experiences, and your Hoppa New York transfers — all linked above — and dive into the Big Apple!

– Keto Mbiri, Grupsy City Travel