Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book my tour?

The average tour reserves 6-weeks in advance. Some guests reserve months in advance. Heavily touristed times such as school vacations; holiday times; fall foliage cruise season; etc., book well in advance. The best time to book is when a guest knows for sure they want the tour - that is the best time to book.



What is the best way to contact Family in New York?

Email is always the best. 50% of our guests come from outside the United States. Very few, even those from the United States, call from the same time zone as New York. You may not appreciate the time we are able to return your call. Email also eliminates, on both sides, any confusion related to poor cell phone signals, overseas phone connections, regional accents, etc. Email provides for written documentation on both sides, helping to eliminate any confusion. Click here to: CONTACT US



Where will my tour begin?

For tours using subways and buses to get around, your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. For driving tours, your driver-guide will meet you in front of your hotel, airport or cruise terminal, driving a black mini-van having a sign with your name in the window.



Does Family in New York provide child safety seats on driving tours?

Your driving tour will be conducted in a vehicle and by a driver-guide registered and licensed by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). TLC does not require child safety seats in cars-for-hire. You can immagine a taxi or limousine driving around with 2 or 3 child safety seats and then have to pick up 4 passengers with 4 pieces of luggage - impossible! On our New York City driving tours, we are happy to accommodate families traveling with child safety seats. On our driving tours and day trips leaving New York City, we require that guests provide child safety seats as follows: 1) a safety seat for each child birth through 4-years of age; 2) a booster seat for each child ages 5 through 8.



What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation Policy:

  • Cancellation 45 or more days before the date of your tour - full refund of deposit.
  • Cancellation 44 to 30 days before the date of your tour - a cancellation fee equal to 20% of the full cost of the tour.
  • Cancellation less than 30 days before the date of your tour - a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the full cost of the tour.
Cancellation Coverage: For 10% of the total cost of your tour, payable within 3 days of booking your tour, cancellation coverage is available. If you elect to take the cancellation coverage, Family in New York will refund you the full amount of your 50% deposit paid, provided you notify us by email of the cancellation 24-hours or more tours before the start time of your tour. Addiitonal information related to cancellation coverage will be included with the confirmation we send following receipt of your tour deposit.



Is Family in New York licensed and insured to conduct driving tours?

Absolutely! Both our driver-guides and vehicles are fully licensed by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). Consequently, we are also fully and appropriately insured by special insurance as required by the TLC. Read more about licensing at the bottom of our page devoted to: New York Layover Tours



Are your sightseeing guides licensed?

Yes! Each of our guides passed the 150 question exam on New York City geography, history, architcture, institutions, politics, etc. and is licensed by the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs. Each also passed the city's background check and will be carrying their license with their photo.