I come from a town where everything, and I mean everything is pretty much closed by 7:00 pm. When I tell people that, they think I'm joking, but I'm not. My town is small enough where if you were to get into trouble, everyone you knew would know within a day or so. It's a safe place where people look out for you. A place where cars actually stop when you cross the street and a place that people have often mocked my family for locking the doors when we leave and replacing 20 some odd locks on the windows when we moved in. As you can imagine moving to New York was a big jump for me. I have made many ventures into the big city and have learned many helpful tips along the way.

1. Be aware

Manhattan is called, "The City That Never Sleeps", for a reason. It's always moving: cars, taxicabs, bikers, tourists. if you want to take a picture just know what, and who's around you. Keep your money in a secure place. Guys this means wallet in the front pockets. Girls, keep your money secure but within reach when you need it, keep you purse around you, across the shoulder or holding it sensibly. Also, don't text and walk, don't selfie and walk, you or someone else may get hurt.

2. Learn the subway routes and schedules.

I learned this tip out the hard way. First time in the city with my friends, we walked from Pennsylvania Station on 34th Street all the way down near NYU. That's about a 30-40 minute walk. Now normally, I wouldn't mind the walk, it was nice out, but I was in four-inch heels. Plus it was a 30-40 minute walk there and a 30-40 minute walk back. Next time I went to the city, I took the train. Learn the subway map and download a map app. They will give you instructions on what train to get on, and when. It's a life saver!

3. Wear sensible shoes

Sadly we are not all Blair Waldorf or Serena Van Der Woodsen. Heels are not always the most sensible shoes to be walking around Manhattan. If you need to wear dress shoes make sure you bring comfortable shoes. Ladies, if you want to wear heels, go for it, but your feet will thank you if you slipped flats into your purse.

4. Enjoy the touristy places.

Times Square, Rockefeller Center, 42nd Street, Central Park, the Metropolitan Art Museum, Fifth Avenue, just to name a few, are some of the most well-known spots in Manhattan, therefore making them prime spots for tourists. Now I've learned that if your need to get somewhere fast, do not go through Time Square, it's usually under construction, causing a usual two lane sidewalk to become a one lane sidewalk for people going both ways. It can be quite frustrating, however, these places are beautiful and you really do need to enjoy them, it's what makes the city special!

5. Have a travel buddy

Each time I go into the city, I always go with my friends or, at least, a friend. Having a travel buddy is probably one of the most important tips I've learned in my first year and a half at college. A travel buddy is good to have because someone has your back. As amazing as the city is, as is most of the world, there are always going to be people around you that don't have your best interest at heart. A travel buddy is there to be an extra pair of eyes and ears, as you are for them. Also traveling with a friend(s) makes it so much more enjoyable. You have other people to experience the city with. You make countless memories and have endless amounts of pictures and/or selfies with. Having a travel buddy makes your city experience a bit safer and more fun.

At the end of the day, the biggest tip is to have fun. The city is a great place to explore. Do your research, have a map app, take lots of pictures with your friends and make memories. Stay safe and enjoy!