Spotlight on GANYC Guide: Myra Alperson
Introducing GANYC guide: Myra Alperson!
Company: NoshWalks
Phone: 212-222-2243
Social Media: Facebook / Twitter / Instagram
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How long have you been a tour guide?
Over 30 years.
What types of tours do you offer?
Food tours, with history and culture built in - walking only, with occasional public bus connections.
Do you offer Niche Tours?
I uniquely focus on food in ethnic neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs, plus two neighborhoods in Newark and (to come in 2018) two neighborhoods within Paterson, New Jersey. Many Noshwalks destinations are unknown to tourists, and the idea is to support these small, mainly immigrant, businesses (restaurants, markets, bakeries) that sell delicious food but also strengthen their neighborhoods. I've been leading tours like this since 1983 (Hungry Pedalers Gourmet Bicycle Tours, 1983-1990) and Noshwalks, which I launched in 2000.
What time of year would you consider your busy season?
Spring and fall.
Have you or your company received any awards?
No awards, per se, but I've gotten extensive press coverage, including four stories on NY1 TV, a feature in the NY Times, and a profile in Manhattan Users Guide (2015) that I didn't know was coming. I'm currently developing a full program of Bronx Noshwalks ("Nosh the Bronx") that I hope will get more recognition as an incentive to get more people to go there.
Have you or your company been featured in print, broadcast (tv or radio) or online media?
See above. Here is the main Noshwalks feature (NY Times). I've also been listed in the NY Times travel section twice, including Frugal Traveler column in November 2015 (link to 2011 feature). Noshwalks is listed in a several NYC guides - I've been in Frommer's, Rough Guide, etc. - not sure which guides currently feature Noshwalks.
Also: 2009 feature in the NY Daily News.
What drove you to become a tour guide?
Passion.
What is the most gratifying part of your work?
I get to make some money doing what I love, building on my own vision and creativity, and on my terms!
What special deals, sales, events or promotions are you offering to GANYC Followers and our industry partners and their customers?
I will give GANYC MEMBERS a significant discount, i.e. I'll charge food costs and a bit more, rather than my full fee. Hopefully, they'll show their appreciation with a tip.
How long have you been a member of GANYC?
Not sure... 8 years?
How has GANYC helped you and your business?
Networking.
What's your advice or Tour Guide tip you love to share to people visiting New York?
Get out of Manhattan... or to areas of Manhattan NOT in your tour books! When leading custom tours, I always advise people, especially out-of-towners, to take one of my tours in the boroughs.
(For more info or to book a tour with Myra, check out her GANYC profile by clicking here.)