I'm a newbie hobbyist and will be in NYC for a few days.  I've been looking through Backpages, Eros, and some agency websites for a provider.  It seems that girls seem to fall into a few categories:

1) Probably fake pictures and/or scams.  This accounts for a huge number of providers on the Backpages website, at least from what I've been reading.

2) Premium escorts that are out of my price range.  It would be nice, but $500+ seems like a lot for 1 hour.  Is that standard practice in the industry or is NYC particularly expensive?

What approach should I take if I'm looking for a good first experience?  Where's the "middle ground?  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. Merry Christmas!

Newbies should stay away from BP, Eros & other escort malls.  Only see well reviewed girls (5+ good reviews here from guys with a review history).  Spend a few days doing TER research before seeing anyone.  You are TER VIP I assume?  If not, you must get VIP.  Spend lots of  time on TER newbie board & do searches there before asking newbie question on the NY board.

And yes, hobbying in NYC is not cheap. So you should expect to spend $350+ per hour. Most decent NY girls are more than that.

Like the gentlemen stated before, do research. Go to the "search reviews" section, state your preferences and the rate that you are comfortable with.
If you are look for a top notch companion with real photos, come to my site but I do suggest that you do  research based on your criteria and enjoy yourself.

Can't go wrong with Gina Rollins.  But she might be too much to handle being a newbie.

Head to jewels....pick the girl (nearly all have reviews) book half hour first.....I recommend Jessica

You can go cheaper, but there are tradeoffs either in looks or service.

Rather than us play mindreader, tell us what you are looking for, and start by buying VIP and looking at the reviews on TER.

Give us an idea of what kinda girl, what you are looking to spend, and what kinda session you are looking for.

These days most providers who were 500 to 600 are noticing the phones calls are most likely going to the smart ones out there that are topping @ 400 the most.
Industry has changed to our advantage.

Here is what I consider "high end," okay?

Ashley Ann Taylor:  $600
Alexandra Hill:  $500
Olivia Allen:  $500
Gemma de Rossi:  $500

Give me some examples of who you are talking about.