According to forum posts, public transportation is a recommended and cost-effective way to travel from JFK to Manhattan. Travelers can take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then choose between the subway or the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to reach Manhattan. The LIRR provides a faster but slightly more expensive route compared to the subway.

Some travelers have suggested taking a yellow cab, which offers a flat rate of approximately $75 including tips and possible tolls for a ride from JFK to Manhattan. For larger groups or those preferring a different service, options like UberXL and other car services such as Dial 7 or Carmel Limo are available, though prices may vary and pre-booking is recommended.

Travelers have generally advised against using shuttles due to their poor reputation for reliability. However, express buses and airport shuttles are available but depend on the specific location in Manhattan and the amount of luggage passengers have.

Some travelers are looking for accommodations that provide a more residential atmosphere away from the central hustle and bustle but remain accessible for dining and sightseeing. Areas like Chelsea, Lower East Side, Greenwich Village, Upper West Side, and the Financial District have been mentioned as preferable locations. Travelers have also suggested staying in the Village for its vibrant environment with good restaurants and bars.

For many users, budget is a significant consideration, with hotel budgets ranging from around $160 to $1800 for a stay. Specific hotels mentioned include The Plaza, Washington Square Hotel, Moxy Times Square, and Hilton Millennium UN. Users are advised to provide specific room configurations and amenities they desire, as well as their budget in USD, to receive more tailored recommendations.

According to forum posts, users frequently recommend reposting accommodation queries in the New York City forum for more focused advice, as many users mistakenly post in the New York State forum. This ensures more relevant responses from the community.

According to forum posts, travelers have recommended staying at places like the Inn at Taughannock Falls near Ithaca for its scenic location and proximity to waterfalls. The Sagamore in Bolton Landing and Mohonk Mountain House are suggested for their beautiful settings and recreational opportunities. The Roxbury Hotel in the Catskills is also highlighted for its unique atmosphere.

Forum users have suggested various scenic and cultural spots across Upstate New York. The Hudson River Valley, Finger Lakes, and Adirondacks are popular for their natural beauty and outdoor activities. Specific mentions include Watkins Glen State Park for hiking and the Corning Museum of Glass for cultural visits. Historical sites like the FDR House and Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park are also recommended.

Travelers have called out the feasibility of road trips in Upstate New York, suggesting that it’s practical to explore different regions like the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes by car, provided one is prepared for some driving. Some users have noted that planning and booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons like fall foliage, is advisable to secure the best spots.

According to forum posts, the NYC subway and bus systems are primary public transportation options. While few subway stations have elevators, accessible stations are marked, and elevators' operational status can be checked online. Buses like the M20 provide connections within the city, and the JFK AirTrain connects to the subway for transfers to Manhattan.

For inter-terminal connections at airports like LaGuardia, travelers have mentioned using the free on-airport bus service. The Q70 and Q47 buses connect LaGuardia to subway lines for further city access, with the Q70 providing a quicker, more direct route compared to the Q47, which makes local stops.

Travelers have called out NJ Transit and the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) for regional connections. NJ Transit connects Newark Airport to New York Penn Station, and the LIRR offers routes from JFK AirTrain to stations like Penn Station and Grand Central, which are also accessible and connected to the city's subway system.

Some travelers said that the OMNY tap-and-go payment systems are operational on NYC subways and buses but not on the AirTrain or NJ Transit. Metrocards, which can be more suitable for subway rides within NYC, are also available and offer a weekly fare cap for cost-effective travel.

According to forum posts, some of the best locations in Upstate NY for viewing the eclipse include areas north of Schroon Lake but not Ticonderoga. Exit 30 on NY-73 towards Keene Valley is recommended, where you can pull off in a safe spot to enjoy the eclipse. Additionally, Port Henry has been mentioned as a perfect viewing spot.

For those considering other areas, Lake Placid and Whiteface Mountain are also suggested as viable locations to view the solar eclipse. These locations provide a scenic backdrop that could enhance the eclipse viewing experience.

Travelers have noted significant interest in these areas during the eclipse, leading to potential traffic jams and high accommodation prices. It’s advisable to plan travel and lodging well in advance to avoid inconveniences.

According to forum posts, some must-see destinations in New York include the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which offer deep insights into the city's rich cultural history. The Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center are also highly recommended for their iconic views and architectural significance.

Travelers have called out Central Park and the High Line as essential visits for those looking to enjoy outdoor spaces while soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, attending a Broadway show is considered a quintessential New York experience, showcasing top-tier theatrical performances.

For many users, the 9/11 Memorial is a profound place of reflection and a must-visit to understand the city's resilience. The New York Public Library and St. Patrick's Cathedral are also highlighted for their stunning architecture and cultural importance.

According to forum posts, New York offers diverse road trip routes that showcase its natural beauty and historical sites. Some travelers recommended exploring the Finger Lakes region, known for its wineries and state parks like Watkins Glen and Letchworth, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the East.

For many users, historical attractions are a significant draw during New York road trips. Posts highlighted stops such as the FDR Presidential Library and Museum and West Point Military Academy. Fort Ticonderoga is also a recommended stop for those interested in history, providing a scenic drive and enriching visit.

Travelers have called out the Adirondacks and Catskills for their natural beauty, ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives and quaint towns. The Hudson Valley also comes highly recommended for its historic charm and culinary scene, particularly praised for its farm-to-table dining experiences.

According to forum posts, traveling from New York City to Niagara Falls is a lengthy journey, taking about 7-12 hours by car, bus, or train. Some travelers suggested that flying is the most time-efficient option, with flights from NYC to Buffalo taking about an hour, followed by a short local transfer to the falls.

For many users, taking an early morning flight to Buffalo, NY, and then using local transport services to Niagara Falls is the preferred method for a day trip. Amtrak offers a more scenic but time-consuming alternative, with the Empire Service taking approximately 9.5 hours from NYC to Buffalo or Niagara Falls, NY.

Travelers have called out that a one-day trip to Niagara Falls from NYC is almost impossible by road due to the long travel times. They recommend flying if constrained by time, or alternatively, extending the visit to at least an overnight stay to enjoy the destination without rush.