The question I hear most at the end of a tour, after “where should we eat,” is “which observation deck should we do?” As a licensed New York City tour guide, my honest answer is that it depends on what…
30+ Once-in-a-Lifetime NYC Experience Gifts (From a Licensed NYC Tour Guide)
One of the best gifts I’ve ever been given in New York City didn’t come in a box. It was a night in a tent, glamping on Governors Island, with the Statue of Liberty right outside my front “door.” I…
The Cost of Living in Rome, Italy: A Monthly Budget Breakdown (2026)
When I tell Americans I live in Italy, the first question is almost always about money. The second is some version of “So it’s basically New York City with better pasta, right?” Nope. I lived in New York for almost…
40 Gifts for Friends Going Abroad (That They’ll Actually Pack)
When I moved from New York City to Italy, I only packed the essentials in two checked suitcases. I thought I’d be gone for about six months. Over five years later, I’m still here. One of the few things that…
How the NYC Subway Works: A Licensed Tour Guide’s Guide for First-Timers
When you come to New York City, you have to ride the subway. It’s a rite of passage, and it’s still the fastest, cheapest way to get around the boroughs. I promise it’s not as scary as you think! I…
37 Things to Do Alone in NYC (From a Licensed NYC Tour Guide)
Exploring New York City by yourself feels special. I lived in New York City for almost three years, and some of my favorite days there had nobody else in them. As a licensed NYC tour guide, I’d finish a tour,…
