Stamps, Schtamps, Who Needs 'Em Anyway? (A New Yorker's Guide)
So, you've got a pen pal in Paris, a secret admirer in Sydney, or maybe you just want to send your grandma a really fancy-looking postcard from the Big Apple. Whatever the reason, you're suddenly in the market for international stamps. Quelle horreur!
Don't panic. While finding a needle in a haystack might be easier than finding an open post office in this concrete jungle, fear not, intrepid letter-writer. Here's your survival guide to the wild world of international postage in NYC.
The Good Ol' Post Office: A Love-Hate Relationship
Let's start with the obvious: the United States Postal Service (USPS). Love 'em or hate 'em, they're the OG of stamp distribution. Pro tip: Avoid going to a post office during rush hour. It's like trying to catch a unicorn – possible, but highly unlikely and probably not worth the effort.
Convenience Stores: Your Unexpected Stamp Savior
Who would have thought that the place you buy questionable snacks and overpriced magazines would be a stamp haven? But it's true! Many convenience stores in NYC sell stamps. It's like finding a goldmine in a gumball machine.
Drugstores: More Than Just Medicine
Need a Band-Aid and a stamp? Your local drugstore has you covered. They often have a decent selection of stamps, and you can grab some cough syrup while you're at it. Just in case writing those letters gives you a sore throat.
Office Supply Stores: The Professional's Choice
If you're sending out a lot of mail, or you just enjoy the smell of printer paper, office supply stores are your go-to. They usually have a wider variety of stamps and other mailing supplies. But be warned: the prices might be a bit steeper than your corner store.
Online: For the Digitally Inclined
If you're the type of person who orders groceries online, why not order stamps too? The USPS website offers a variety of stamps, and you can have them delivered right to your door. It's like magic, but with less glitter and more bureaucracy.
How to... Your Stamping FAQs
How to find a post office that's actually open? Use the USPS website to find a location near you and check the hours before you go.How to avoid standing in line for hours? Go to the post office early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon when it's less crowded.How to choose the right stamp? Check the weight of your letter and the country you're sending it to. The post office can help you determine the correct postage.How to save money on stamps? Look for sales or discounts on stamps, or consider buying stamps in bulk.How to make your letter stand out? Use interesting or unique stamps to add a personal touch.
Happy stamping!
