Calling the Big Apple from Blighty: A Brit's Guide to Conquering New York Phone Lines
Ah, New York City. The city that never sleeps, the land of opportunity, and... a place where you might need to ring up a mate, relative, or that bodega you accidentally left your lucky charm at. But fear not, intrepid UK traveller! Conquering the concrete jungle extends to its phone lines, and this guide, like a double-decker bus barrelling down Fifth Avenue, is here to navigate you through.
Step 1: Dialing Like a Doctor (Who Saves Money)
First things first, ditch the pigeons and forget trying to use a payphone (do those even exist anymore?). You'll need your mobile or a landline with international calling. Now, for the fun part: the secret code to the Empire State!
The International Gateway: This is your "Abracadabra" moment. On most phones in the UK, it's 00 (though it can vary, so check your provider's instructions if needed).
Uncle Sam Says Hi: Next, dial the 1 for the USA. Because, you know, different countries and all that.
Cracking the Area Code: New York's a big apple with many boroughs, each with its own dialing code. Here's a cheat sheet for the most common ones:
- Manhattan: The bright lights, the Broadway shows - that's 212.
- Brooklyn: Hipster haven? More like 718 dialing haven.
- Queens: If you're venturing out to the borough of everything, it's 347 or 718.
- The Bronx: Home to Yankee Stadium? That's 718 or 347 too.
- Staten Island: Let's be honest, most of us forget Staten Island exists. But hey, if you're there, it's 347 or 718.
The Big Finish: Finally, dial the 7-digit phone number you're trying to reach. Now you're practically sipping coffee in Central Perk... or at least outside one!
Step 2: Avoiding International Call Calamities (Because We've All Been There)
Double-check those digits: A typo can mean the difference between reaching your grandma and some poor schmuck selling socks in Schenectady (no offense, Schenectady).
Beware the landline bandit: Calling a landline in the US from the UK can be pricey. Check your mobile plan or consider using a calling app for a more budget-friendly option.
The time difference is real: New York is 5 hours behind GMT in the summer and 4 hours behind in the winter. Don't wake your cousin up at 3 am because you forgot about jet lag!
Step 3: Victorious Ringing! (Cue celebratory high fives)
You've done it! You've conquered the New York phone lines. Now go forth and chat, reminisce, or maybe even order a pizza (because who doesn't love a good New York slice?).
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling fancy, you can add a +1 in front of the entire code instead of the 00. It's basically the same thing, but slightly more international-spy-esque.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to sound posh while calling New York?
There's no app for that, my friend. But a good cup of tea and a bowler hat might help with the illusion.
How to avoid awkward silences on the phone?
Talk about the weather. It's a classic for a reason (and because nobody ever knows what to say about the weather, anywhere).
How to use a payphone in New York (if you can even find one)?
Honestly, this one is a mystery even to us. But hey, if you manage it, report back and we'll write a whole new guide!
How to convince your friend you're in New York when you're really at home in your pyjamas?
Sound effects are your friend. Play some honking taxi noises and maybe a faint "Hey! Get outta the way!" in the background. Just don't overdo it.
How to deal with jet lag after calling New York at an ungodly hour?
Coffee. Lots and lots of coffee.
This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
💡 Breath fresh Air with this Air Purifier with washable filter.
