Planning Your Trip to the Quora Top Writers Meetup 2017 in New York

Welcome to the Quora community! This year, the esteemed Quora Top Writers Meetup will be held in New York, an event that brings together some of the brightest minds in the Quora writer community. If you're traveling from outside New York, this guide will help you plan your trip efficiently and make the most of your visit. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Event

Attending the first Top Writer meetup was an eye-opening experience for me last year in Mountain View. As new attendees, you might feel a bit lost and unsure of how to engage, but fear not! The event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming, with plenty of opportunities for networking and learning.

Last year, I decided to organize a small unofficial event the day before the main meetup, followed by the big party. However, I wished I had stayed in town longer. This year, I am making sure to take more time to explore and enjoy the city.

Given my past experience, I am planning to utilize my local connections to stay busy. However, there are many other side events and activities that you may find interesting. Stay tuned for more details on these!

Logistics and Travel

For your arrival and travel, consider flying into LaGuardia Airport. Once you are in the city, you have several options: take an Uber, Lyft, Juno or a cab to Manhattan. I recommend using a ride-sharing app for convenience and to save time. My personal preference is to travel during off-peak hours to avoid traffic and crowds, especially during rush hour when subways can be quite crowded.

For daily travel within the city, the subway is your best bet, especially during rush hours. Download a subway app to navigate the system easily and keep track of schedules. If you are not a fan of urban travel, Juno or another local ride-sharing service can provide an alternative.

Accommodation

Accommodation choices in New York City can be overwhelming, but finding the right place is crucial to your comfort during your stay. I recommend looking for a standard room that is not in Times Square, as the lights and constant noise can be disruptive, even as a tourist. Times Square does offer great entertainment options, but if those aren’t what you’re looking for, stay elsewhere.

For the Quora Top Writers Meetup, we decided to stay in a hotel near Times Square because we also planned to see some theater while we were there. If you are willing to go off the beaten path, exploring other areas like Midtown can offer better-priced and less crowded options. Always read reviews and check rates before booking. I advise staying away from Airbnb listings in NYC as they are not allowed there, which can create doubts about the authenticity of the listings.

Excursions and Sightseeing

My wife and I are planning to stay for the weekend, and we will arrive on Thursday and leave on Sunday. We will use this time to explore the city, visit friends, and enjoy the events. The weekend will be a perfect balance of staying engaged with the community and taking a leisurely stroll through the city.

Expect to walk a lot in New York, especially in Midtown and other business districts. The city is best navigated by walking, taking the subway, or buses. For spontaneous adventures, consider using an app like Juno for a quick and comfortable ride around town.

Final Thoughts

Attending the Quora Top Writers Meetup in New York is a fantastic opportunity for collaboration, networking, and learning. Whether you're jetting in for a full weekend or just a day or two, make the most of your time and connections. Remember, the city is a treasure trove of experiences, so don't hesitate to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Happy travels, and we hope to see you at the Quora Top Writers Meetup!