In the times of yore, the kings and monarchs, especially of the Oriental and South East Asian countries like India, had a very queer pastime. They used to get mazes built for their own amusement. One such example is to be found in the city of Lucknow. Coming back to contemporary times, though such pastimes have now become passé, mazes are still built, albeit unconsciously. And this is a trend that is more visible in our country. Wondering what I am talking about? I am talking about our modern cities that are resembling a maze more and more with every passing day. And while it is a trend generally affecting all our cities, the Big Apple or the city of New York seems to be the biggest espouser of this fact.

Welcome to New York! And this is not an announcement at any airport or the introduction to any travel guide. This statement can be read and interpreted in two ways. You can read it as an open armed welcome from one of the citizens of New York, or you can read it as a subtle irony or sarcasm from a person who knows the harrowing experience new comers usually have to go through. And it is the view of helping them out that I am writing this.

The very first item any person, who is new in this city, should buy is a map of the city. Though the main thoroughfares make some sense, the further you go into the suburbs, the more eccentric the road plans become. The subway is the best way to get around New York. It has an extensive network and is the only twenty four hour tube service in the whole world. Just travel on it a few times and you will get the hang of it.

Getting out on weekends is not such a good idea as on most weekends repair and construction work is carried out in the city, leading to either diversions or replacement of trains and buses. Cycling is a good way of getting around in the city. But the point is that you should be a good biker to get around in the urban mess of New York.

Buses and shuttle train services are also readily available. But if you have to go to other cities, the city is well connected by the JFK Airport, from where air connection is available all the time.

The next time you are in the Big Apple do not get bamboozled. Keep your cool and remember the instructions while you are touring in New York. You will feel completely at home.