I'm from a small town in Ontario. Planning a 4 day holiday to New York & can hardly wait. I'd like to book a hotel that is central. I'd like to be able to walk to 5th Ave., etc. I plan to take a bus tour of the city while I'm there. Is it possible to find a hotel that is central that is priced within reason? What can I expect to pay for something central? It is my first time in this exciting city so any suggestions are very much appreciated.

It depends on when you're coming and what you consider reasonable. Very decent hotels can be found on quikbook.com for $129/night. Some people choose to "gamble" and bid for rooms on Priceline and "win" bids of $65-85/night at mainstream hotels like Hyatt and Marriott. If you're interested in Priceline, go to biddingfortravel.com and get some info. To be near 5th Ave., look at upper midtown (near Central Park) or midtown East. Right now, most midtown east bids are getting the Grand Hyatt. It's right next to Grand Central Station and very centrally located. The hotel will be renovated in Jan '04 so some report it's a bit worn looking right now, but good value.

Stayed at The Belvedere on my last trip, as I got such a great price including breakfast. They have a web site, but it is better to call the hotel. Will see if I can find their number for you. This hotel is not fancy, but the location is good. You can buy a bus tour ticket at the hotel. 5th Avenue is quite a walk from The Belvedere, but we did it with no problem. The hotel is near restaurant row and the theaters.

Mclaurie advice is right on target. You can also add midtown south to the areas to consider. You can check biddingfortravel.com to get an idea of the deals on priceline. Also expedia has a lot of summer specials as well. You should check a few booking sites to compare. As far as 5th avenue goes, it runs north/south for several miles. Assuming you mean the area with the popular shopping, then staying in the 40s - 60s sts would be most convenient.

Edward, add my ditto to Sabrina's endorsement of the Belevedere! I've stayed there 3 times already, and will always go back there. It is small, but very clean and as spacious as you can expect from a NYC hotel room. The staff has always been great to me, and its on 48th and 8th, which is only a couple of blocks from the Theatre district...a plus! Also, last time a took a friend of mine, a NYC newbie...the concierge booked our bus trip, the Big Apple double decker tour, and we picked it up a block or so away and off we went! It was perfect!