New York City Teaser – Day Trip With JetBlue AYCJ Pass

My first JetBlue AYCJ flight was to New York City (JFK) to coincide with the AYCJ launch party. In the terminal JetBlue set up coffee and donuts (with blue frosting, naturally). There was a mob scene at another table.

There were dozens of JetBlue workers greeting travellers and I asked one for details. She said they were giving out jackets at the table and luggage tags in another spot. I went and got the luggage tag and navigated the mob scene for my jacket (seemed like most of the mob were not even AYCJers).

There was a banner for AYCJers to write what they planned to do with the pass. Most people just listed a bunch of destinations. After I signed it, nothing else seemed to be happening. I found two other JetBlue workers and asked about the festivities. They admitted that they did not know much and were asked to come out and greet the pass holders. I asked about getting to Manhattan and they gave me spot-on tips. One suggested that I do not miss the Apple store; he compared it to the Louvre.

So, I asked, should I stick around or go to the city. Both said go to the city, as it was a gorgeous day. Only later, when I saw pictures–including Drew Lawrence with cheerleaders–did I wish I stuck around. Truthfully, I am happy I got out into the city. I understand that magnificent weather days are unbeatable and that trumps dealing with the mob scene–even with the cheerleaders.

So, what I learned about getting to Manhattan from JFK airport is to take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and ride the E subway train into Manhattan. In fact, the JetBlue dudes told me to exit at 53rd and 5th. I had read online to take the A subway from Howard Beach station but the dudes said that it was a slower train and E would get me there quicker. Love the personalized info.

I also asked how much time I should allow to return to JFK. They suggested leaving Manhattan 2.5 hours before scheduled departure.

I had slight trouble with the AirTrain. From the terminals, two AirTrains make frequent circuits. One path is to Jamaica Station and the other is to Howard Beach station. Both trains operate the same route except from Federal Circle. It was one stop past Federal Circle when I realized I was going to Howard Beach instead of Jamaica Station. No problem, as I returned to Federal Circle and caught the Jamaica Station train. So, tip, look for the AirTrain destination above the rain doors to make sure you ride the right one.

The AirTrains are free to ride around JFK airport. It costs $5 to exit at other stops. When I exited at Jamaica station, friendly staff offered assistance. I felt comfortable with the payment process but asked for help as I was super impressed with the friendliness. A worker showed me how to buy a combination ticket for AirTrain and the subway; I asked about buying the return trip fare at the same time. Really, it was just buying a card with the correct amount of money, like most other mass transit machines. Interestingly, I paid $14 and received a $2.10 bonus. After the two rides, I still had $1 on the card.

To get to the subway is a bit of a walk (past LIRR, Long Island Railroad) but there are plenty of signs. I and others ended up at an elevator to descend to the subway. I asked a custodian if there were stairs or escalator; and he said this was the best way. OK, so far, everyone in NYC was helpful and friendly. Different than reported.

Subway impressions: stations were hot and dirty. Trains were cool and clean. Voices were clear and understandable. LCD panels clearly show 10 upcoming stops and how many stops until the end of the line; very helpful and clear.

With the limited amount of time I had in NYC, I walked up and down 5th Avenue, visited the Apple Store and Saint Thomas Church, and took some photos. I walked a few feet into Central Park (to say I did), on Madison Avenue (same), and ate a slice of pizza from Villagio on 6th Avenue. I plan to return to the city a couple of times in the next month and welcome you Nawyakers to give me suggestions for things to see, places to visit and your picks for best pizza, dogs, etc. Thank you so much.

© 2010 Charles McCool