New York is surging the travel industry with new visa-free policy for 41 countries, including Schengen nations, Canada, South Korea and Israel

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) can enter New York and other parts of the United States, such as John F. Kennedy International Airport, for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. However, travelers must have an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before traveling. The Schengen Area nations eligible include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Other European nations part of the VWP are Andorra, Croatia, Ireland, Monaco, San Marino, and the United Kingdom (British citizens must have the unrestricted right of permanent abode in the UK). Asia-Pacific nations eligible for the VWP include Australia, Brunei, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. In the Americas, Chile is a participating country, and in the Middle East, Israel is included. While in New York, tourists can visit iconic sites like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, Broadway, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The implementation of United States visa-free policy for 41 countries, including Schengen nations, has been a transformative force for the tourism sector. This strategic move has not only simplified the entry process for millions but has also broadened our appeal across diverse travel sectors. Additionally, this policy has invigorated niche travel markets, such as culinary tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, enriching the travel experience and fostering significant economic growth and cultural exchange.”

Top Airlines Connecting New York

New York is a major international gateway with numerous airlines offering extensive connectivity. Here are some of the top airlines:

1. Delta Air Lines
   • Hub: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
   • Services: Extensive domestic and international network, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
2. American Airlines
   • Hub: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
   • Services: Wide-ranging domestic flights and international services to Europe, Asia, and South America.
3. United Airlines
   • Hub: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
   • Services: Comprehensive domestic network and international flights to Europe, Asia, and South America.
4. JetBlue Airways
   • Hub: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
   • Services: Extensive domestic routes and international flights to the Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe.
5. Emirates
   • Hub: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
   • Services: Direct flights to Dubai with connections to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
6. British Airways
   • Hub: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
   • Services: Multiple daily flights to London Heathrow, connecting to Europe, Asia, and Africa.
7. Air France
   • Hub: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
   • Services: Direct flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle, with connections to Europe, Africa, and Asia.
8. Lufthansa
   • Hub: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
   • Services: Direct flights to Frankfurt and Munich, with extensive connections to Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Top Airports in New York

New York has three major airports that serve as significant hubs for both domestic and international travel:

1. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
   • Location: Queens, New York City
   • Significance: Major international gateway with extensive services to Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
   • Airlines: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Emirates, British Airways, Air France, and many others.
2. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
   • Location: Newark, New Jersey (serves New York metropolitan area)
   • Significance: Major hub for United Airlines with substantial international and domestic services.
   • Airlines: United Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, Emirates, and others.
3. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
   • Location: Queens, New York City
   • Significance: Primarily serves domestic flights, with a few international flights to Canada.
   • Airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and others.

Top Hotels in New York

New York City offers a variety of luxurious and well-known hotels, ideal for tourists and business travelers alike. Here are some of the top hotels:

1. The Plaza Hotel
   • Location: Fifth Avenue at Central Park South, Manhattan
   • Description: Iconic luxury hotel known for its historical significance and elegant accommodations.
2. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park
   • Location: 50 Central Park South, Manhattan
   • Description: Upscale hotel offering stunning views of Central Park, renowned for its exceptional service.
3. Four Seasons Hotel New York
   • Location: 57 East 57th Street, Manhattan
   • Description: Luxurious hotel with spacious rooms, excellent dining, and top-notch amenities.
4. The St. Regis New York
   • Location: Two East 55th Street at Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
   • Description: Opulent hotel offering refined elegance, exceptional service, and historic charm.
5. Mandarin Oriental, New York
   • Location: 80 Columbus Circle at 60th Street, Manhattan
   • Description: Luxury hotel with breathtaking views, world-class spa, and fine dining.

Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in New York

DMCs provide essential services for organizing events, tours, and travel itineraries in New York. Here are some prominent DMCs:

1. AlliedPRA New York
   • Description: Offers comprehensive event management and destination services, including corporate events, meetings, and incentive travel.
2. Hosts New York
   • Description: Specializes in creating memorable events and experiences, offering local expertise and a wide range of services.
3. Access New York Metro
   • Description: Provides destination management services such as event planning, transportation logistics, and customized group experiences.
4. CSI DMC New York
   • Description: Renowned for creative event production, logistics management, and unique group activities.

How to Reach New York

New York City is accessible via various modes of transportation:

1. Airports
   • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Located in Queens, offers international and domestic flights.
   • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Located in Newark, New Jersey, serves international and domestic flights.
   • LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Located in Queens, primarily handles domestic flights.
2. Trains
   • Amtrak: Provides service to Penn Station in Manhattan, connecting New York with major cities across the United States.
   • Metro-North Railroad: Serves suburbs in New York and Connecticut, with routes terminating at Grand Central Terminal.
3. Subway and Buses
   • New York City Subway: Extensive network covering all five boroughs, operated by the MTA.
   • MTA Buses: Serve all five boroughs, providing extensive coverage throughout the city.
4. Cars and Taxis
   • Car Rentals: Available at airports and various locations throughout the city.
   • Taxis and Rideshares: Readily available, including services like Uber and Lyft.

New York City is renowned for its iconic tourist attractions that draw millions of visitors each year. Here are some of the top touristy places in New York:

1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

• Description: A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty stands on Liberty Island and is accessible by ferry. Nearby Ellis Island is home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

2. Central Park

• Description: This sprawling urban park offers a mix of rolling meadows, water bodies, gardens, and recreational activities. Key spots include Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and the Central Park Zoo.

3. Times Square

• Description: Known as “The Crossroads of the World,” Times Square is famous for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and electronic billboards. It’s a bustling hub of activity and entertainment.

4. Empire State Building

• Description: This iconic skyscraper offers stunning views of the city from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors.

5. Brooklyn Bridge

• Description: An engineering marvel, the Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, providing spectacular views of the city skyline and the East River.

6. Metropolitan Museum of Art

• Description: One of the world’s largest and most prestigious art museums, the Met houses over two million works spanning 5,000 years of history.

7. Broadway and the Theater District

• Description: Home to world-famous theatrical productions, Broadway offers a variety of shows ranging from musicals to dramas. Key theaters include the Majestic and the Shubert.

8. Rockefeller Center

• Description: A complex of 19 commercial buildings, it’s famous for the seasonal ice skating rink, Top of the Rock observation deck, and the annual Christmas tree lighting.

9. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

• Description: MoMA features an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol.

10. 9/11 Memorial and Museum

• Description: This poignant site honors the victims of the September 11 attacks, with twin reflecting pools and a museum that explores the impact and legacy of the events.

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