It is all well and good to tell people that walking in a big city like NYC is safe. It isn't. Life isn't safe. I would never counsel someone to do something that they don't feel comfortable doing. Especially if I don't know them.

That being said traveling around the city can be safe.

1) Know where you are going and walk towards it like you mean it.
2) Do not make eye contact with people on the street unless you are trying to get their attention.(Do not smile)
3) Wear what other people are wearing.
4) Wear sturdy shoes.
5) If a street is deserted, turn back and pick a street with people on it. Stay where there are people.

I moved to the city in 1997, and I did not usually feel uncomfortable on the street. However, I am a tall, heavyset woman (with a mean expression).

Summary: Big cities you don't know (not just NYC) can be dangerous.

I have been walking with a petite friend in SF during the day when a man picked her out of the crowd and got loud and abusive. Fortunately, she isn't shy.