Traveling With Friends in New York City

To control drinking expenses (and even calories), always order a glass of water with an alcoholic beverage, then proceed to nurse both.

For reasonably priced and filling dining, order one or two entries (such as a salad and soup), rather than a full dinner. Many people do this, especially those who dine out a lot for business reasons.

Want to stay friends? Never "split the check." Travel with pads of note paper, a few calculators, and maybe even extra pairs of reading glasses to help everyone tot up their bills, including tax and tip.

. . . or consider splitting the check through pre-planning. Decide how many drinks and types of food (such as lobster versus chicken) each person usually orders. From there, assign a percentage of the bill, and use that percentage throughout the trip. A non-alcohol drinking, chicken eater, who avoids dessert might be assigned 10% (including tip and tax), while a bottle-of-wine-chugging, steak eater, 25% of the total bill.

To keep costs down, order a drink and water (bottled or tap), then alternate sips. This stretches the time during which you drink without stretching your budget.

Consider substituting sparkling water for plain water as it seems more festive.

Order high alcohol-content, non-mixed drinks, rather than wine or beer. With a higher proof drink, a single drink goes a long way, saving on cash and (if you care) calories.

To keep costs and inebriation down, vodka, gin, or rum mixed with water or seltzer can really be stretched. Tip: if you are really cheap, bring your own tea bag, then dunk it in the drink. You'll be surprised at the unusual and delicious tastes you can invent!

Keep in mind that drinks used to wash down dinner (wine and beer), mixed drinks, and very sweet drinks encourage you to order more than you may be able to handle or can afford. Wine, in particular, can be tossed down thoughtlessly just like soda.

If some of these suggestions seem strange, try them before you go on your trip. If you find yourselves enjoying entries (rather than full meals), and nursing drinks (rather than slamming them down), you'll be able to manage your budgets, bodies, and late nights when you finally get arrive in New York City!

Questions? Just ask!
Karen@Littleviews.com

Article by Karen Little for www.Littleviews.com. All rights reserved.