I'm looking for some recommendations for a hotel in midtown with some charm/personality as opposed to one of the large chain properties. This is for some visitors from India who don't mind spending $250-350/night especially if the room is a bit larger than the usual closet-size. I've told them about the Casablanca, but would like to have a few more possibilities. Thanks in advance!

Try either the Giraffe, Rhigha Royal, The Michelangelo, The Park South

Thanks, GoTravel. When I post a question and get assistance in 5 minutes (literally) I never fail to be astounded and grateful for this fabulous forum.

I haven't tried it myself, but I've wanted to try the Libray Hotel. Here is a link to an article in the Washington Post about boutique hotels in NY.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp...&notFound=true

Hi Marilyn. You've gotten good advice so far. The Giraffe (which got raves last I looked on tripadvisor) & the Park South are a bit below the 34th st "demarcation," line usually considered the south end of "midtown"-- but still quite convenient. I thought I read that the Rhiga Royal had been taken over by one of the chains (maybe Marriott) so don't know about service etc. but I believe it's an all suite hotel.

The Benjamin is often mentioned in the same company as some of the others mentioned here.

The Lowell Hotel on east 63 or 64 is also an all suite hotel with very English atmosphere.

mclaurie, I love the Murray Hill section!

The RR was taken over several years ago by the Marriott. Initially they added the Marriott name and then took it off after it proved to hurt sales.

I've stayed at the Michelangelo, and I'd say it fits the bill.

People used to complain about the continental breakfasts there, but they've been upgraded in recent years and are better than average.

Speaking of the Murray Hill section, I always enjoy the "Manhattan East Suite Hotels" family of hotels. The Shelburne Murray Hill on Lexington is my favorite. Nice, roomy units. Find them at www.affinia.com

Another nod for Michelangelo and Rhiga Royal, my two favs. Unimpressed by W Union and W Times Square. Just stayed at 2 bargain places, Hotel 41 which was cramped, but with Frette and Aveda. I loved Skyline's delux room. I never took the time to see the pool but will definately return as I love Hell's Kitchen, and found the spacious rooms, with a sofa and fridge, all recently upgraded to be a wonderful change from the in the thick of things hotels. And if you plan ahead of time, you can get some outrageous rates online at Hotels.com....

Another vote for the Michelangelo - lovely, spacious, well-appointed rooms. Midtown location is wonderful too.

Thanks, all! I have passed the info on with accompanying hyperlinks. I'll be interested to see where these folks end up staying.