A Few Basic Courtesies for Your Next NYC Trip

We get it —NYC is chaotic, crowded, and sometimes confusing. But if everyone follows a few basic common courtesy rules, life gets a lot easier (for you and for the rest of us). NYC works because millions of people manage to coexist (mostly) peacefully in tight spaces. A little awareness and courtesy go a long way toward keeping that possible.

Here’s a quick guide:

Walking:

• Stay to the right. On sidewalks, escalators, or stairs — the right side is for standing or walking at a normal pace, the left is for passing.
• Don’t block the sidewalk. If you’re walking with more than 2 people, don’t spread across the whole width. It’s not a parade and you will get shoulder checked.
• Don’t stop suddenly. Need to check your phone or map? Move over to the side — just like you would in traffic.

Subway:

• Boarding: Let passengers exit before you get on. If seats are full, move to the center of the car so others can board.
• Holding On: Trains can jolt or stop suddenly — hold a pole or handle, please.
• Personal Space: Keep bags on your lap or between your feet, not on the seat next to you. Offer seats to the elderly, pregnant, or disabled riders.
• Staircases: Stick to the right on station stairs to keep things moving smoothly.