New York City is experiencing a tourist resurgence, highlighted by record-breaking attendance at the U.S. Open and a nearly 10% increase in jobs within the hotel and restaurant sectors.

Nevertheless, Chinese travelers remain notably absent due to travel restrictions and long visa wait times; NYC remains on track to welcome an estimated 63.3 million visitors this year, representing a 12% increase from the previous year. Times Square, in particular, has witnessed a vibrant revival, with pedestrian traffic exceeding pre-pandemic levels and spending rebounding to 92% of its former glory.

Some uncertainties lie ahead about new regulations that could limit the presence of platforms like Airbnb. The impact of these rules on traveler behavior remains to be seen, with some potentially shifting back to traditional hotels.

(source: patch.com, image: Andreas M)