As solo female traveler, NYC is generally very safe during day. At night, stick to well-lit busy streets. Avoid empty subway cars — If locals aren't sitting there, neither should you.

Trust your instincts. If someone makes you uncomfortable, don't be polite — Move away immediately. Keep phone charged and know where nearest 24-hour business is (most bodegas, some pharmacies).

Times Square area actually quite safe at night due to heavy police presence and crowds. Quiet residential streets in any borough require more caution after dark.