Hi,

I am finally getting to NY! Need to find somewhere to stay that won't break the bank. Wouldn't mind bidding with Priceline, or one of those sites, but I haven't a clue which area to stay in.

I'll be on my own, so need somewhere very safe. I'll be doing the usual tourist things. Any idea's?

Thanks, Laura

Laura, you might want to re-post this with NY or NYC (if you're going to New York City) in the title.

What is your budget and what time of year are you going?

Almost all hotels are in safe areas. There are many, many locations that are good. I think most tourist like the Times Sq area (midtown west in priceline), but I personally don't think it's the best place to stay. Being near central park (there are some decent hotels on Central Park West) is always nice, midtown south is more or less in the middle of up and down town, with lots of subway options. Midtown East also is a good choice, near Grand Central Station. The village/soho area is a more relaxed, neighborhoody area than the midtown locations. Just about all these locations are near public transportation (which is important). The downtown area, can be a bit out of the way if you planning on spending a lot of time at the major museum (Met, Moma,Nat'l History), and if you'll be attending theater, although it's still manageable.

Keep in mind, three is no 1 location near everything, and all locations have restaurants, convenience stores and that kind of thing.

Priceline is probably a good way to go. Chevk biddingfortravel.com for more info on manhattan locations.

Laura, Priceline is a fantastic option but I'm not sure it's what I would do if I were coming to NYC on my own for the first time. The best hotel deals on Priceline imo are in the midtown west area (Times Square) and I that where I'd want to be on my own. I'd rather stay in a more residential area like the upper westside or even Murray Hill. So what's your budget and when are you planning on coming?

Times Square is tourist central - very loud, garish, busy and packed full of tourists at all hours. Also, retaurants tend to be very expensive - many not quality just tourist traps. IMHO not a good place to stay unless you're doing primarily theater.

For a woman alone I second the suggestion of a more residential area - with lots of casuale and good inexpensive restaurants. I favor the upper west side - since it's within easy walking distance of many of the major museums and also has great public transport - 2 subway and many bus lines.

Laura, a while back I bought a friend a book called "Going Like Lynn: * New York (A Series of Liberating Travel Primers for Women) by Lynn Portnoy
(My friend's Mom's name is Lynn and my friend likes NYC.) I travel often to NYC on business and thought I knew it well but this book is focused on a woman traveler by herself and gives good suggestions as to hotels, sightseeing and shopping and otherwise enjoying NYC by yourself. Not that being in NYC by yourself is scary or anything but it is a good book for any traveler going there.

www.affinia.com - great hotels at great prices.

The Milburn, on the upper west side is showing rates of around $190 during that time. A safe, residential area and very close to the subway.

nytraveler....any hotel recommendations on the Upper West Side? Moderate price range?

Laura...

before you go be sure to read the "insider's guide to NYC" on the website www.laurasnyctales.com