Sustainable Traveling Tips for City Travel: New York City Edition

Mar 28

Alicia Keys spoke the truth when she said, "New York – the concrete jungle where dreams are made of." The city is a bustling metropolis with industries that breathe life 24/7; however, recently, there have been sustainability efforts from the city council and the population for a healthier environment, so it is in good faith for people who also travel there to make an effort in helping their efforts too.

Here are some tips on the ways you can travel sustainably in New York City and in other cityscapes!

Getting around

The best way to move around New York is to master the public transportation system. Using New York's extensive network of subways and buses is both convenient, efficient, and sustainable.

Familiarize yourself with subway stations and transit hub layouts to save time and reduce travel stress.

The city's bike-share program is also an excellent alternative for shorter distances. On top of saving time, bikes help you stay fit and protect the environment. These options include seasonal passes or pay-per-ride options, so residents and visitors enjoy the flexibility.

Lastly, the city’s famous yellow cabs might be iconic for NYC, but they’re quite expensive and not very environmentally friendly, so you might want to avoid them by opting for public transport.

Budgeting for New York

Traveling to New York City requires savvy financial management. Expenses fly quickly, whether for hotels, a night out with friends, or dining out after work.

That's why it is crucial to create a budget where you can plan and track your spending, including savings for unexpected costs. This will help you enjoy your time there without financial stress.

Some tips to keep your spending in check are:

Take advantage of discounts and deals, whether for city attractions or dining options
Invest in a monthly transit pass if you’re going to stay for a longer period of time.

Community resources

The best thing about New York is that it’s a city of communities. These range from local libraries to community centers to world-class parks and cultural sites. You can do many things in this city!

New York has numerous structures that provide opportunities for its residents. They can connect with like-minded, sustainability-focused individuals and foster a sense of belonging through them.

Many of these resources are free or discounted, creating opportunities for New Yorkers to immerse themselves in the arts, history, and green spaces.

New York’s efforts for sustainability

Caring for shared resources is essential in a city where over 8 million people share amenities. New York provides many sustainable opportunities. These include recycling programs, public transportation, bike-friendly streets, and more.

One way to expand your sustainable practices is by engaging in community gardening projects or supporting local farmers' markets.

You can even participate in city-wide clean-up days and help reduce the city's carbon footprint.

Just because you’re a tourist, it doesn’t mean you can’t contribute!

Tourists make a difference in sustainability efforts in a city as big as New York. If you’re having a fun day around the Big Apple, there are many ways to be environmentally conscious.

For example, the city thrives with local cafés that source their ingredients locally and ethically. These places serve foods with low carbon footprints, which can be your go-to on your night out in the town.

New York City offers a plethora of opportunities to connect with nature and engage in sustainable practices. Spend an afternoon picnicking in Central Park, a sprawling green oasis amidst the urban jungle. Take a stroll along the High Line, a public park built on a historic freight rail line, and appreciate the innovative approach to urban green spaces. Participating in these activities will make you a part of the city's vibrant sustainability movement and create lasting memories.

Housing options (if you decide to move there)

If you’ve enjoyed your time in New York City, you might decide to move there permanently. New York City has diverse residents, and the housing options reflect just that. You can experiment with anything, from high-rise apartments to quaint brownstones. Consider your preferences and lifestyle needs before deciding where you want to live.

For some, having amenities such as fitness centers or communal spaces is a must. For others, that means having art centers or good restaurants.

Once you know what you want, you can start looking for your spot in the city. The best way to do this is through an apartment management company, which has many options under its wing.

The more experienced a property management company is, the more diverse its options. So, whether you're seeking the hustle and bustle of downtown, the quiet of the suburbs, or pet-friendly options, there is a spot for you.

Ending thoughts

Being a resident of the Big Apple is just as exciting as being a tourist.The city is known for the great opportunities it offers, both personally and professionally. But it’s easy to feel small and lost with everything happening there.

New York City may be a concrete jungle, but it's also a city teeming with life, culture, and a growing commitment to sustainability. By incorporating these tips into your trip, you can experience the magic of the Big Apple while positively impacting this incredible urban ecosystem. Remember, even as a visitor, you can contribute to a more sustainable future for this iconic city. Now, go forth and explore!

Sea Going Green is a sustainable tourism consultancy that provides accommodations, tourism businesses and operators with the tools to reduce their footprint and communicate their sustainability efforts to guests. Interested in working with us? Schedule a call!