In New York, a firm handshake or a nod is a common form of greeting. It's important to maintain eye contact, showing confidence and respect. Hugging is usually reserved for close friends and family.

Tipping is customary and expected in New York, especially in restaurants, taxis, and for services like haircuts. The standard tip is 15-20% of the bill. Not tipping can be seen as rude or uninformed.

New Yorkers respect the queue and cutting in line is frowned upon. If you're unsure where the line starts, ask rather than skip ahead. Patience is appreciated during busy times.

New Yorkers walk fast and purposefully, particularly in crowded areas. Keep to the right on sidewalks to let others pass by. Avoid stopping suddenly, as it might cause confusion or frustration.

On the subway, give up your seat for elderly, disabled, or pregnant individuals. Avoid loud conversations and keep personal music to yourself. Always let others exit before you board.

New Yorkers value personal space, even in crowded areas. Avoid touching strangers unless absolutely necessary. Always excuse yourself if you accidentally bump into someone.

In public places, it's often okay to take photos, but always ask consent when people are in the frame. Some attractions may have restrictions, so check before snapping. Flash photography can be disruptive in museums.

In restaurants, waiting patiently for your turn shows respect, especially busy times. Reservations are recommended in popular spots. Special dietary requests should be made clear when ordering.

New York is generally casual, but certain venues may require formal attire. Always check dress codes for fine dining or theater events. Casual settings still maintain a neat standard.

Always maintain a respectful tone in emails and messages. Quick responses are appreciated in the fast-paced NYC environment. Avoid sending work-related contact after hours unless urgent.

Keep conversations brief with strangers unless invited to chat more. Avoid sensitive topics like politics or personal finances. Brief pleasantries in elevators or at cafes are common.

Smoking is prohibited inside most public buildings and some outdoor areas. Designated smoking zones are available and should be used. Always dispose of cigarette butts properly.

New Yorkers often use humor and sarcasm. It’s part of the local charm but can be misunderstood, so gauge your audience. When in doubt, lean towards a positive tone.

Always wait for the pedestrian sign, but understand that jaywalking is common. Stay alert as traffic can be intense and fast-moving. Use marked crosswalks where possible.

If invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift. Punctuality is appreciated, and calling ahead if running late shows respect. Take off shoes only if the host does.

Many popular attractions have long lines, and it's normal to queue patiently. Booking in advance can save time and ensure entry. Be prepared for bag checks and security screenings.

A business card is often exchanged in professional settings but not mandatory. Digital connections are increasingly accepted for follow-ups. Be concise and direct in business conversations.

Having a MetroCard ready speeds up boarding buses and subways. Aim to be considerate and let others exit before stepping on. Avoid eating on public transport.

Keep right when standing on escalators to allow others to pass on the left. Traffic flows quickly, so follow the rule to avoid blocking those in a hurry. Move promptly when reaching the top or bottom.

New York is vibrant, yet certain spaces require lower noise. Libraries, theaters, and residential areas often ask for quiet. Respect posted signs about noise control.