General information

Crime and safety
We all know New York from the terrorist attacks of 9/11. But this doesn't mean that New York is a no go. New York is one of the safest places you can go to nowaday's. The municipallity and the government of the United States of America is trying it's utmost best to bring the crimelevel down and to prevent New York from future terrorist attacks. Walking in New York, you will see a lot of police and security, especially around government buildings. With all of this in consideration, we can safely say that New York is a great and safe place to visit.

Before the 1990's, New York was known as a criminal and violent city. Thanks to Rudy Giuliani, the crimelevel was brought down, and New York became a safe city again.
Nowaday's New York is a safe place to go, you can walk around, take the subway, an nothing will happen. But there are still a few area's which you should avoid, especially during night time. Washington Square Park and Central Park were for example known for the drugs-activities that took place during night times. So, you could better avoid these places in the night, but during day times, all the area's in and around Manhatten are safe.

Emergency numbers
All emergency services in New York can be reached by dialing 911.
If you have a medical emergency, but you don't need an ambulance, the best thing you can do is to go to the nearest emergency service of a hospital.

Currency
The United States of America uses the US dollar (N$) as their national currency.
$ 1,- is comparible with € 0.75

Troughout the city centre, you can withdraw money from ATM machines. You can also go to a Bureau de Change to change your currency into US dollars (you can find most of them around Times Square).

Citytrip to New York
Always liked to go to New York, but the travel agency is always telling you all the hotels are completely full, no worries, contact the hotel yourself, and most likely they will have plenty of rooms.

Electricity
New York makes use of the American 110 Voltage system. This will mean that some electrical equipment, purchased outside the USA, will not work in New York.
You will also need a travel-plug, otherwhise your plug won't fit in the sockets.

Dollar vs. Euro
Because of the low Dollar, it is very attractive to purchase your electronic equipment in New York, but keep in mind that you will have to report any purchased items at Customs, when you enter your country.

Time difference
New York has a time difference of -5 GMT or -6 CET.