February in the Big Apple
 

We hope to spend 5 days in New York in February and since it's the first time in many years that we can travel without kids we would like some suggestions of where to stay in Manhattan. Have spent summer in NYC and in "family friendly" accommodation so we would like something a little special but not too pricey on this trip. Any suggestions please?

Bring a hat, scarf, gloves, and wool coat. Shoes with rubber soles.

What is your budget?

Are you looking for something traditional? Modern?

Any ideas for neighborhood? Times Square - or something more sophisticated?

Are youwilling to do Priceline to maximize your budget?

Would like to spend no more than $150 per night but could maybe go a little extra if it was something really special. As for location, we would like something central - close to shops, restaurants - but not right in the centre of Times Square. I have never used Priceline. Can I view the options available on Priceline without committing to one of them? Perhaps you could give me a few tips on using it please?

No, you do not get to preview or review properties before bidding on PL.

BUT you can learn a lot at www.biddingfortravel.com, about everything from bidding strategies to lists of hotels that other people have won.

For hints on using Priceline, the classic website to study (and study HARD) is www.biddingfortravel.com.

And Priceline might be your only option to find a special hotel room in Manhattan for $150 a night. Even in February. That's a very low price point for NYC IMHO.

Sorry. Spend level should read $200 per night or a wee bit more if we need to. But if we can get a good hotel for $150 we'll take it!! More to spend in the stores!

In your shoes, I'd make a cancellable reservation at a very nice hotel that's in your budget. Some ideas

The Beekman Towers is available on lastminutetravel.com for a one bedroom suite @ $149 (I'm not sure if this is cancellable. Check small print on the website first)

Check prices at the Michelangelo, the Elysee, The Drake Swissotel, The Omni Berkshire, The Warwick.

THEN, start reading biddingfortravel. Look at the prices people are paying for hotels and read reviews on tripadvisor. Based on what you said, I'd bid 4* midtown east and/or upper midtown/Central Park. The last several hotels I listed are all Priceline hotels so you will have don research on available prices.

Good luck! If you can avoid both Valentine's Day and President's weekend you should get a great rate.

Many thanks for these suggestions. Am signing out now to do some research....