New York 4-12/4/24 Update on planning

[Yongala35]

Many thanks to people who have given me guidance in October 2023.
I am looking forward to my solo adventure. I am delighted to say I have. Big Apple Greeter arranged for Friday 5th April . I am meeting this lady a couple of minutes walk from my hotel. Greeter would like me to have a transit pass. Also got OMNY on my iPhone. Thanks to lady who recommended this service.
I have arranged a ticket to see a taping of The Daily Show on Tuesday 9th April and am wait listed for Stephen Colbert on Wednesday 10th April. I know I have to arrive early to stand any chance of getting in but I intend to give it my best shot. Knee ?
The only fly in the ointment is..... I have an unpleasant dose of arthritis in my left knee. I have arranged mobility assistance at airport because I am not sure of distances to be covered at Dublin airport. I am mobile but slow. I do not need a stick but may use one so people are aware I am not a gazelle.
Travel insurance is eye waveringly expensive because I had a very nasty dose of Covid which resulted in a diagnosis of peripheral lung fibrosis -3 years' ago. I had a mental health crisis 6 months after Covid and now a rubbish knee for past few months. I am at a gym 3/week. All notifiable conditions-£400 for a week to cover me. I accept that's nothing compared to costs in the event I needed help.
A I would appreciate some restaurant suggestions. Solo dining , so late afternoon in a quiet corner of a not too busy restaurant would be great. I have tried to book a few places on line but not had any luck when I put in 1 person. I am hoping for some pointers from Big Apple Greeter. I will try and see a Broadway show.
B I am scheduled to arrive at Newark airport at about 1.15pm on Thursday 4th April. I will have pre-cleared US entry in Dublin. Any suggestions about easiest way to travel to my hotel on E37th Street? Ideas about cost of taxi? Is $100 and $20 tip a reasonable guesstimate? Or should I look for shuttle bus? I am conscious of costs but this is my first adventure in 10+ years and I want comfort too. I will be tired and would prefer to get to hotel quickly so I can get settled. I have booked a seat In hotel bar at 7pm. I believe view is spectacular.
C I have arranged a Clarity Halifax Mastercard which should make payments easier or at least I won't be paying currency charges.
E I want to see : 9/11 Museum and ferry around everywhere. I am a museum person : Intrepid Air and Space,One World Observatory, Ellis Island or Staten Island Ferry. What I see and do will depend on my knee. Thanks for reading and any pointers.

You need to book Statue of Liberty and Ellis island ferry, Ellis island I can't recommend enough, the ferry is a triangular route dropping off at s of l first but don't stay too long as Ellis island is far more interesting, go for the earliest ferry you can manage. Take snacks, food is pricey.

Use the public bus to the port authority bus station (not a private transfer) then grab a cab the short distance to your hotel if you don't feel like walking. The buses are good.

For eating the Hell's Kitchen area has some amazing food, also cheaper bars (found $6 margaritas!) most won't require booking. Also there's so many food stands in the street if you need cheap eats. Also at port authority bus station there was very cheap pizza if you are hungry near there. Some delis have seating and serve breakfast.

Intrepid air and space was good but pricy, check for deals. America is the home of the coupon, do ensure you get the relevant apps for New York to make your budget go as far as you can

Thanks for your reply.
I think Ellis Island is a definite. I visited Alcatraz a number of years ago.
My budget is $350/day-travel ,food ,entertainment. I won't be shopping beyond a few fridge magnets.
I am cross beyond words at extent my knee has cast a cloud over my trip but forward and onward.

If you can manage it then the Highline was a really interesting walk. There are lots of benches on the route. I think it stars about 30th St and goes down to the Meatpackibg district. There is lots to see on the way.

In the 9/11 museum get the audio track - I think you can download it yourself your phone.

Thanks for your reply.
High Line is on my list of to visit

Restaurants I have been recommended include
www.littlespain.com
www.eatly.com/us_en/stores.nyc-flatiron
www.boqueriarestaurant.com/tapasbar-nyc-west-40th/
www.balthazarny.com
More fishy
www.docksoysterbar.ciom
www.lurefishbar.com

I'd be grateful for any more recommendations.
I am annoyed with my knee but that's life. I have had more distressing reasons to complain/whinge/moan
Again, thanks

Yellow cabs are metered at Newark and the dispatcher should tell or write down your actual fare. Fare should range between $70 - $80 with a few dollars tip on top. Do not accept offers from people potentially approaching you for a private transfer as they are v expensive.

Stella trattoria and bar located within Macy’s does lovely food and has a nice ambience. You can get views of the Empire State Building from there.