Visiting New York: How to Look like a Native

New York is the best place on earth, it really is. But it also requires some patience, a little money and some very swift feet. When I first moved to New York, I couldn't even navigate around my block, and now, five years later, I'm well-versed in all five boroughs (well, except Staten Island, but that one doesn't count), I know my way around most Manhattan neighborhoods like the back of my hand, and I know how to hail a cab on a Saturday night.

1. Don't look up- Everyone can spot a tourist by the angle of their head. Even though the buildings do seem very, very tall, try to keep your head down and your eyes forward when walking through busy streets. Not only will you help the flow of foot traffic by staying alert, but you'll also protect yourself against con artists trying to steal your purse or wallet. As much as I love this city, my boyfriend has been mugged three times and I've had more than my fair share of close calls. Watch your purse, especially while in big groups. When you see a bunch of people gathering together to watch a street performance or event, chances are there are people nearby who would love to take your money.

2. Don't carry a map in plain view- Study your map at home all you want, but when it comes to navigating the city, it's best to refer to the maps on the wall, which are much brighter and easier to read anyway. If all else fails, ask someone! New Yorkers absolutely LOVE giving directions and it's a great way to find out the best route to where you're going. Subway maps do not tell you if a subway is out of service, and a lot of times there aren't any signs, either! Asking someone is the best way to know if there's a route change or construction going on underground. If all else fails, forget the subway and take a cab. As long as you're traveling in Manhattan, the cab driver can get you where you need to go as long as you have an address or street intersection handy.

3. Waiting can be great- I've waited up to 2 hours for a table at a restaurant on Saturday nights. Yes, it seems ridiculous, but sometimes you have to do a little waiting. Ask if you can sit at the bar and have a few drinks while you're waiting. If you need to get some errands done, give the host or hostess your cell phone number and tell them to call you when your table is available. Be sure if you're asking them to do you a favor that you give them a $5 bill. Otherwise, they may "forget" to call. The same goes with cabs on Friday and Saturday nights. Stand at a populated street corner where a cab can easily pull over and pick you up. Now, put your hand up in clear view and play the waiting game. If you move from your spot, someone else might wander in and take the cab that belonged to you! It's always best to wait and stay in one place, and you'll eventually get lucky.