by Danielle Garrett of PlanIt Travel Designs for The Aha! Connection
Prior to the pandemic, I would be working on multiple client trips to New York City. It’s simply hard to beat NYC in the Fall or Christmas time!! Even though tourism is down in NYC, travelers are beginning to make their way back (I’m hoping to be one of those returning travelers this December)!! In early September, during a Covid surge, the city was beginning to see its tourism numbers grow. Those numbers of course can’t compare to the record number of 66.6 million tourists in 2019. That number fell to 22.3 million in 2020 but NYC & Company has projected it will increase to 36.1 million in 2021. Overall, NYC tourism is tracking better due to the re-opening of Broadway and the return of several Fall events (US Open and NYC Marathon, as examples). NYC & Company also believes their cautious approach to the virus may appeal to some visitors.
Below are some highlights and updates on what to expect if visiting NYC soon.
NYC is seeing a decreasing trend in their numbers this Fall! The current positivity rate, as of October 28, is 2.15% (based on the last 28 days).
The Key to NYC is an indoor mandate that requires anyone that enters an indoor establishment to show proof of vaccination (a digital photo is acceptable). So even though you can go to NYC as an unvaccinated visitor, you will not be able to enter indoor restaurants or Broadway shows. Kids under 12 years of age who are not eligible for the vaccine are allowed indoors with a mask.
Restaurants, museums, and most site-seeing establishments are open. However, check your must-see spots before your visit!
The city is strongly recommending masking indoors (unless you are eating and drinking) but has decided not to make this a mandate. However, there are exceptions. For example, all museums are requiring those 12 and older to wear a mask. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are also requiring mask-wearing.
You must be vaccinated to attend, and masks are required unless eating and drinking.
The subway system is open 24 hours/day. Masks are required onboard.
For more info, read Traveling to NYC during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go
Please remember to travel responsibly, wear your mask and reconsider travel if you are elderly or immune-compromised! And remember to check your destination travel restrictions/requirements before and during planning, as well as double-checking before departure!
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