What is your advice to a first-time alone traveler?

Hello Fluther. After a long time being inactive, I have decided to come back with a question.

It’s pretty straightforward. I’ve traveled before, but never alone. This time I’m traveling by plane to the USA and am going to visit some places on the East Coast, namely NYC, DC, Boston, New Haven, Princeton.

If anyone’s been there/lives there, what should I watch out for? Secondly, does anyone know a good guidebook for the whole East Coast or only for the cities I’ve mentioned? Thirdly, my plan is nearly complete, including accommodation and transport, however, I still do not know how and where to eat. Sure, fast food is an option, but that kinda won’t be good enough for two weeks.

Thanks y’all.