Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?

Most travelers, including citizens from the U.K. and U.S., can visit Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period under Schengen rules. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. Beginning in the last quarter of 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will come into effect. Eligible visa-free travelers will need to complete an online pre-travel authorization before entering Spain or any other Schengen country. The ETIAS is not a visa, but a quick electronic security check valid for multiple trips over three years.

Is Spain safe for solo women travelers?

Yes, Spain is widely considered one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming destinations for women. Exercise common-sense precautions in busy tourist areas, keep valuables secure, and stay aware of surroundings, especially in crowded markets, metro stations, and nightlife districts.

New York City Travel Guide

Q: Do I need travel insurance?

While not legally required, travel insurance is strongly recommended. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage. Comprehensive coverage helps you to relax, ensuring you’re protected throughout your Spanish adventure, whether hiking, sightseeing, or enjoying local festivals.

Q: When’s the best time to visit?

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are perfect for exploring Spain. Expect mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds than summer. These seasons are perfect for cultural tours, walking the Camino, or relaxing along Spain’s beautiful Mediterranean coastlines.

New York City Travel Guide: Iconic Landmarks, Culture & City Energy

For women travelers, New York City offers an exciting balance of discovery and ease. Wander world-famous landmarks like Central Park and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, explore vibrant neighborhoods, indulge in standout dining, or unwind in stylish boutique hotels all within a city that feels both dynamic and accessible.

Our small-group journeys through New York City are created exclusively for women and designed to go beyond the highlights. We weave together meaningful local experiences, unforgettable cuisine, and thoughtfully selected stays to create a trip that feels immersive, empowering, and unmistakably New York.

Quick Facts About New York City

Population: 8.8 million

Language: English

Currency: US Dollar ($)

Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (EST/EDT)

Best Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (April-June and November-December)

Girls’ Guide Tours: NYC Adventures for Women

We’ve carefully crafted this itinerary to showcase New York City in its most authentic form during an exciting time of year: the US Open! Each day is carefully scheduled to include cultural experiences, exceptional cuisine, visits to iconic landmarks, and authentic local interactions with the people who contribute to New York's unique character. It balances famous attractions with hidden gems off the beaten path. The result is a deeply engaging exploration that feels elevated while remaining connected to this lively city we're exploring.

Manhattan Match: New York City and the US Open

Get ready for a unique NYC getaway, where world-class tennis meets culture, history, and indulgence. Stay in a Michelin-Recognized hotel in the Lower East Side, a perfect base for exploring. Doni Belau, a NYC veteran for nearly 40 years and Girls' Guide founder, will guide you to her favorite spots. The highlight? VIP tickets to the US Open’s 2nd round at Arthur Ashe Stadium, witnessing top players in thrilling action. This trip celebrates sport, culture, and connection in one of the world's greatest cities.

Top Boroughs & Landmarks

Upper East Side & Museum Mile

Elegant and refined, the Upper East Side is home to Museum Mile, where world-class institutions like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum line Fifth Avenue. Pair a morning of art with designer shopping and a leisurely lunch at a chic café.

USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center comes alive during the US Open. Whether attending matches or touring the grounds, it’s a thrilling, high-energy experience that blends sport, style, and summer in the city.

Chinatown

Vibrant and full of flavor, Chinatown offers an animated contrast to the city’s polished avenues. Wander bustling streets lined with markets and lanterns, and discover some of the most authentic and exciting dining in the city.

The High Line

An elevated urban oasis, The High Line weaves through Manhattan’s West Side with landscaped gardens, public art, and sweeping city views. It’s the perfect way to experience downtown’s creative energy before arriving in the chic galleries and restaurants of Chelsea.

Harlem

Rich in history, culture, and creativity, Harlem is a must for music, art, and culinary experiences. From legendary jazz clubs and gospel brunches to soul food institutions, it offers a vibrant cultural energy that feels both timeless and contemporary.

The Plaza Hotel & Fifth Avenue

Synonymous with timeless glamour, The Plaza Hotel anchors the southern edge of Central Park and the start of Fifth Avenue. Indulge in afternoon tea, then explore flagship boutiques from the world’s most coveted fashion houses.

Sample Itineraries

3-Day NYC Highlights

Experience the best of New York City with a curated mix of iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and standout dining. From Central Park strolls to Fifth Avenue shopping and skyline views, this short stay captures the city’s unshakeable energy.

5-Day Culture & Neighborhoods

Dive deeper into New York City with time to explore distinct neighborhoods like SoHo, Harlem, and Chinatown, alongside visits to renowned museums and cultural landmarks. Balanced with excellent dining and unique local experiences, this itinerary offers a richer, more immersive perspective.

7-Day NYC Luxe

Stroll through New York City at a relaxed pace, blending iconic sights with exclusive experiences like private tours, gallery visits, and evenings at a gospel concert. With time for neighborhoods, shopping, and leisurely moments such as a walk along The High Line, this journey delivers a sophisticated and comprehensive city escape.

See itinerary

Practical Travel Information

Entry Requirements & Visa

Many countries require some type of visa to enter the United States. It's always smart to check your country's official website for further details on specific requirements.

Safety & Security

New York City is safe for solo female travelers. As usual, remember to take typical safety precautions when traveling at night and in crowded areas. Use trusted transportation services, and stick to well-lit, populated walkways when moving around at night.

Getting Around

New York offers transportation options for everyone, from the Subway and city buses to e-bikes and taxis. A trip to the city typically involves a little bit of everything, as vehicle traffic can sometimes be at a standstill, so it's easier to use alternative transportation to arrive places in a timely manner.

Money & Budget

Plan on budgeting roughly $75–$150 USD per day for casual meals, local transportation, and day-to-day expenses while exploring New York City, depending on your dining preferences and planned activities.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the city, from restaurants to taxis, though it’s still useful to carry a small amount of cash for tips, smaller cafés, and quick purchases.

Tipping Expectations

Tipping is customary across dining and services, and is an important part of the overall travel experience in the city.

Things to Do & Must-See Experiences

Enjoy an evening on Broadway

Take in a world-class performance on Broadway, where dazzling productions and iconic theaters create an outstanding night out. From classic revivals to buzzy new shows, it’s a quintessential New York experience.

Indulge in a Michelin-Star dining experience

Reserve a table at one of New York City’s celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants, where innovative chefs and impeccable service define the dining scene. Whether it’s an intimate tasting menu or a glamorous dining room, the experience is as memorable as the cuisine.

Attend a match at the US Open

Feel the electric atmosphere at the US Open, held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. From center court showdowns to stylish crowds and champagne bars, it’s one of the most exciting sporting events in the city.

Visit the Whitney Museum of American Art

Set along the Hudson River, the Whitney Museum of American Art showcases cutting-edge contemporary works alongside iconic pieces of American art. Its terraces offer sweeping skyline views, making it as much about the setting as the collection.

Catch a sunset at The Vessel

Head to Vessel in Hudson Yards as the sun dips below the skyline. The honeycomb-like structure glows in golden light, offering a striking and modern perspective of New York City.

Stroll the iconic storefronts of New York's bustling avenues

New York is a shopping dream, with thousands of locally-owned boutiques, luxury storefronts, and curated vintage shops calling the city home. Take your pick of iconic shopping districts such as Madison Avenue, Fifth Avenue, SoHo, or the Flatiron District, to name a few.

Where to Stay

From iconic landmark hotels and elegant uptown stays to sleek downtown boutiques and design-forward hideaways, New York City offers an exceptional range of accommodations. Whether based along Central Park or tucked into a vibrant neighborhood, the city’s hospitality is refined, dynamic, and effortlessly in tune with its surroundings.

The Ludlow

The Whitby Hotel

The Dominick

Responsible Travel & Local Insight

New York City is lively, fast-paced, and welcoming, but like any major city, navigating it smoothly comes down to awareness, courtesy, and respect for those around you.

When visiting museums, landmarks, or cultural institutions, be mindful of posted guidelines. Quiet observation is appreciated in places like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and other galleries.

Interactions are typically friendly but efficient; a simple “hello,” eye contact, and patience go a long way, especially in busy shops, restaurants, and taxis. New Yorkers value personal space and pace, so keeping to the right on sidewalks and escalators and moving with purpose help you blend in seamlessly.

Public spaces, from the subway to parks like Central Park, are shared by millions, so being mindful of noise, cleanliness, and etiquette contributes to the city’s flow. Tipping is customary across restaurants, bars, and services, and is an important part of the hospitality culture.

Supporting local cafés, independent boutiques, and neighborhood restaurants is one of the best ways to experience the city’s character while contributing to its vibrant, small-business ecosystem.

Approaching New York City with curiosity, confidence, and respect allows you to fully enjoy its energy while connecting more meaningfully with the people and places that define it.

Food & Drink Highlights

From classic delis and neighborhood diners to Michelin-starred restaurants and buzzing food halls, New York City offers a culinary scene as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.

New York-Style Pizza - Thin, foldable, and perfectly crisp, this iconic slice is a must. Whether grabbed on the go or savored at a classic pizzeria, it’s a defining taste of the city.

Bagels with Lox & Schmear - A true NYC staple, fresh-baked bagels topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers, and onion are a go-to breakfast or brunch indulgence.

Pastrami on Rye - Piled high and rich with flavor, this deli classic is best enjoyed in an old-school setting with a pickle on the side.

Dim Sum in Chinatown - Head to Chinatown for steaming baskets of dumplings, buns, and small plates that capture the city’s global culinary influence.

Fine Dining & Tasting Menus - From inventive tasting menus to elegant dining rooms, New York City is home to some of the world’s most celebrated chefs and restaurants.

Pair it all with a craft cocktail at a stylish rooftop bar, a glass of wine in a cozy downtown spot, or a perfectly brewed coffee from a neighborhood café for a true taste of New York.

Final Planning Checklist

Valid passport & visa if traveling from abroad

Travel insurance (medical + cancellations)

Comfortable shoes for walking tours

Rain layers & sun protection

Emergency contacts saved. Dial 911 for emergencies.

Ready to make New York City your next girls’ adventure? Explore our NYC trips today and experience this beautiful country the way it’s meant to be: together.

Explore our New York City Tours

FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to the USA?

Many travelers from countries abroad do require a visa to enter the United States. Check country-specific requirements on the official government website for more details.

Is New York safe for solo women travelers?

Yes, New York is safe for solo women travelers.

As always, it's smart to be aware of your surroundings and belongings at night and in crowded tourist areas.

Do I need travel insurance?

While not legally required, travel insurance is strongly recommended. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage. Comprehensive coverage helps you to relax, ensuring you’re protected throughout your time in Thailand.

When’s the best time to visit?

Late spring (April - June) or December are the ideal times to visit New York. The spring months offer sunny, temperate weather, and the holiday season comes alive with Christmas spirit.

What should I pack?

What exactly makes the final cut in your suitcase changes from person to person, but we love using this website as a helpful guide to get started.