Thursday, June 21, 2018

A Broke College Girls Guide to NYC


Before I begin, I have been reflecting about the stories that summers tell. Each summer has a story, as well as each trip to NYC. New York is obviously unlike no other, between the energy that the city brings that has you feeling inspired to create, achieve or even think beyond what you are currently feeling. I am not even going to apologize for such a cheeseball start to this blogpost, spending this past week in the city has really helped me prioritize what I want to achieve for myself in the future.


With all the wonders and enchantment that the city brings… it comes with a pretty big price tag. New York City is hella expensive, not to mention how easy it can be to blow all your savings on a handbag in Barneys! (I was very tempted to pull a little Carrie Bradshaw moment, but that would mean I would starve for the rest of the week haha.) If you are in the same boat as me don't worry, I’ll be sharing a few of my ‘broke college girl tips’ to really stretch your dollar when you visit the city!






1. Budget for what's important and save a little to splurge:
I know I might not be the right person to share money saving advice, but I surprisingly did okay with budgeting my money while being tempted with all that NYC holds. Prior to your trip, it's a great idea to map out your plans. This way you can visualize what you will be busy with and how much you should spend for each day, while leaving a little leftover for any emergency you didn’t plan for, or if you want treat yo self a little!

2. Where to rest your head:
Hotels aren’t cheap and most often it's hard to find one in your price range, especially if your staying for a handful of days. I was lucky enough that Mary’s sister let us stay in her apartment while we visited, so we saved a big chunk of change with the hotel. It would be foolish to stay in a hotel if you know someone in the city or at least close by!  Airbnb is a better alternative to a hotel since they are usually a lot more affordable, as well as kinda making you feel that you are a part time New Yorker!

3. YUM
I’m beginning to think that some restaurants are catching on to the concept of looking ‘gramworthy so they can up the prices with their not so great food.  Mary and I learned this the hard way. Please, please, please take my advice and if there's a new restaurant you have a strong desire to check out, please read the reviews before you end up shoveling out tons of money for a dining experience that was just ‘alright.’ Also, don’t feel obligated to eat out for every meal, that starts adding up. Cook a big breakfast, bring a protein bar with you and go out for dinner! Cutting back on how many times you eat out adds up in the long run.

4. Do Your research!
Not everything you do in NYC has to be extremely expensive. Get up on your research, a lot of museums and stores offer student discounts. Even if you are unsure if they accept a student discount or not, don’t be afraid to ask, the worst thing someone could say is no. Don’t get sucked into overspending on a tourist trap, there is so much more to New York for you to enjoy,





 

Site design by kiki and co.