NEW YORK — New York City has always been a popular destination for travelers, but are recent headlines about crime rates making some travelers rethink their plans?
Crime is a legitimate concern. While media coverage, at times, can paint a misleading picture, experts say travelers should dig deeper before making decisions and not just take their lead from sensational headlines.
“Many New Yorkers are used to seeing their city’s crime stories on the headlines and as unsettling as they are, it is crucial to understand what comes with it,” Silvia Lupone, a travel expert and owner of Stingra, told Sightseers’ Delight. “The tourism industry in New York is very strong and the city remains among the most visited around the world, millions from all over the world come and enjoy the cultural heritage, food and good neighborhoods without any problems.
“What To Keep In Mind As A Traveler: To begin with, all the cities labelled as ‘major’ have some aspects where there is a greater need for vigilance and care,” Lupone, who is well-versed in helping clients navigate travel decisions to major urban destinations like New York City,” Lupone added. “The best way to reduce any danger is by staying in the touristy parts of the city during the day and being aware.”
Tim Choate, the founder and CEO of RedAwning.com Inc., said it’s crucial to recognize that the reputation of New York City for vitality, variety, and cultural depth has always coexisted with noteworthy events.
“Keyless entry systems, well-lit lobbies, and neighborhood-watch partnerships — all novel safety measures — have been introduced by local authorities, property managers, and hospitality companies repeatedly to make guests feel both safe and welcome,” Choate said. “For example, I recently spoke with a long-standing Midtown property manager who said he quickly enhanced the security presence of his building following a few well-publicized events and teamed with nearby businesses and theaters to provide a more consistent, community-backed environment for his guests.
“This pragmatic approach shows that respectable hosts and service providers still make strategic decisions frequently ahead of unfavorable news based on visitor comfort and safety,” Choate added.
Justin Goldsberry, CEO and Founder of Goldsberry Management Group, told Sightseers’ Delight that despite any concerns travelers may have, “NYC remains a cultural icon.”
“Do I think people should stop traveling to NYC? No,” Goldsberry added. “But I do think travelers need to be smart about it.”
The key to planning a trip to the Big Apple in modern times may be to focus on certain parts of town.
“Instead of forgoing a trip, you might choose curated neighborhoods known for their stable residential presence, book stays with property owners who have strong local ties, or even opt for experiences that bring you closer to community activities — walking tours run by historians, quieter boutique stays in converted brownstones, or even local-led tasting events at offbeat pastry shops,” Choate said. “Thinking more specifically about where and how you stay can help you design a New York experience that celebrates the ageless vitality of the city without caving in to every fear that could adorn a front page.”
Still, the experts say any uptick in come shouldn’t mean foregoing a trip to the City so Nice They Named It Twice.
“Perspective Is Key: The increase in crime within society means that crime has increased noticeably, but it does not mean that New York is dangerous and it is futile to travel there,” Lupone said. “It is about getting ready, not being afraid. Always have an itinerary; book better hotels and use referral.”
