New York City is safe. But there are scams and hazards to watch out for. The good news is that once you’re aware of them, you’re less likely to fall for them. Forewarned is forearmed. Some of these should be obvious, but based on experience they bear repeating.

#1: Beware of people trying to hand you something, especially in crowded areas. Sometimes it’s only a flyer promoting a show or local restaurant. (Not a scam.) Sometimes it’s a fake Buddhist monk trying to place a bracelet of beads around your wrist before asking for a donation. (Harmless, but an annoyance.) The ones to really look out for are the guys trying to give you a CD of their music. (It’s not.) They might ask you for your name which they then write on the CD which helps them pressure you into making the purchase. Some of them, the worst of them, want you to pull out your wallet so that they can grab it and run. Just ignore them and walk past. No matter what they say to pull you into conversation, just keep walking. They’ll move on to easier targets (usually, young Dutch couples).

#2: Beware of people asking to borrow something, especially your phone. If someone offers to take your picture for you, tell them you’re fine, you prefer selfies. There’s also the old I-lost-my-phone-and-could-I-borrow-yours-to-call-my-mom scam. If you think it’s someone who genuinely needs help, offer to call their mom for them. Don’t hand them your device.

#3: Be savvy whenever you’re buying something from an outdoor cart or table. The prices should be posted by law. If they are, just make sure that what’s posted is what’s charged. If the prices are not posted, you’re more likely to be gouged. (Especially if you look like a tourist.) People have actually paid $35 for a hot dog. Hot dogs in NYC are not $35. Ask how much something is before you order it. It should seem reasonable. Carts are not gourmet extravagances. They’re usually good deals for the budget-conscious.

#4: To avoid getting shortchanged whenever you’re paying in cash (an old scam around the world), it’s always smart to announce what you’re paying. “Here’s a twenty.” “Here’s $35.” This lets them know that you know exactly how much you’re paying.

#5: And now the best for last, the one that’s most likely to wreck your trip. Since the pandemic, we have MANY more wheeled vehicles on the streets (and even sidewalks). Joining the usual traffic of cars, buses and trucks, are tens of thousands of bicycles, scooters, and e-bikes. There are more than 60,000 delivery guys alone, moving through the streets at more than 30 mph. They ride the wrong way on one-way streets, they run red lights, they make surprise turns, and they are often looking down at their phones. Whenever you step off a curb, make sure you LOOK BOTH WAYS. You might be stepping into a bike lane, actual or improvised.

PS: All right, one last thing, after years of issues clients have had: it's also generally wise to avoid electronic stores in Times Square and pedicabs anywhere.

Okay, you're forewarned and forearmed and ready to enjoy New York City!