Tips & Resources
“I usually go for affordable places, prioritizing location and security above all.”
Staying near the main streets is key. During the day it’s easy to grab taxis for sightseeing and you’ll find plenty of nearby restaurants at good prices. At night, being in the center is perfect for bar hopping, discovering where the crowd is, and getting around safely since it’s usually more lively and well-lit.
Quick list ideas:
- Airbnb room rentals for longer stays
- Hotels with affordable prices and quality service (Hilton, Hyatt Place, Courtyard by Marriott, DoubleTree)
- In college towns, staying with friends makes trips cheaper and more interesting — with local recommendations.
“How to experience more — without overspending.”
As a foodie, my top priority is always finding the best restaurants — good food, a great atmosphere, and beautiful, “cool” people make every evening instantly better.
Other favorites:
- Spending time in parks or at the beach with a quick bagel, sushi, or snacks for a picnic
- Exploring hidden-gem cafés and vintage markets
- Always checking for concerts, shows, or university games (especially fun with friends!)
- Using student discounts for museums, art exhibits, metro cards, and cinemas
- Planning day trips and walking routes that don’t require a car — the best way to explore freely
“Getting there (and around) made simple.”
I love traveling by train — especially from New York. It’s usually the quickest and most affordable way to reach nearby destinations. For longer trips, I rely on transport apps like Omio, FlixBus, and Rome2Rio to compare routes and prices.
Before picking a destination, I always check if it requires a car. Some places, like Montauk, are much easier with one — relying on rideshares can get expensive fast.
Packing light is essential: it makes airports easier, transfers smoother, and spontaneous trips far less stressful.