I know some really nice Jesey boy's... but protection comes at a cost.
best way to protect yourself... don't go where you shouldnt go, and when you shoudn't go. look poor, don't look nervous if your taking a bus, sit in the front of the bus, dont flash cash, have a couple bucks aside in one pocket to eat etc., when you get off te bus in NY get directly into a cab and get where your going.
can you get a prepaid visa at walmart etc for 2k?
if you do get robbed remember your life is worth more than 2k