I think I've got my itinerary nailed down after reading everybody's great comments. Thanks. I haven't read anything about Islip/Long Island, though.

I'm flying into the Islip Airport at 11 p.m. and decided to book a hotel out there at the Howard Johnson for $125/night. Anyone heard of it? I figure it can't be too bad as it's a big chain. Then I'll be staying at the Jazz Hostel, Central Park West for a couple of days. Any warnings or comments appreciated!

Judy, there are half a dozen chain motels just outside the entrance to MacArthur Airport in Islip. I've stayed in all of them and can't tell one from another.

My advice is to go to Yahoo Travel, Expedia, etc., see who has the best rate for the date in question, and choose on that basis.

Can't help you on the Jazz Hostel, though the sentiment on other hostel properties on this forum has been fairly negative. You may want to post separately to get opinions from someone who has been there. People who have stayed at that or another hostel in Manhattan are not likely to open a post inquiring about Islip.

Thank you for the response! I meant to post this at the NY site, but had trouble.

Judy, there is no "New York" site per se on Fodors; it all goes under the United States heading unless someone
takes the trouble to screen for only New York postings.

Just use something broad, such as, "Have you stayed in a New York City hostel?" which will clue in the audience you're seeking. Are you staying in a hostel because that's all you think you can afford, or because you prefer that kind of an accommodation? If you're traveling to the city between now and the first of the year, New York is at its most expensive; a function that everyone wants to see the city around Christmas. Still, I've seen some inexpensive rooms listed on Quikbook.com.

I think the hostel is all I can afford (34/night) because I'd rather spend what little cash I have on getting around to see the sights, a show, and have some good ethnic dinners. I'm not a youth, I'm 31. So I hope I won't feel like a senior citizen at the hostel. Thanks for suggestion for cheap lodging - I'll check it out.

Judy:
When you get into the city get a metrocard. Depending on how long you are staying, you can get a one day unlimited FunPass for $4, 7 day unlimited for $17, or pay $1.50 in cash or token on the bus. Some places to buy Metrocards and get information, brochures and discount coupons is
Grand Central (M-F 8-4--Sat 10-4--closed Sunday) Times Square Visitors Center Broadway between 46 & 47 St (M-Sat 8am-8pm)www.mta.nyc.ny.us. NYC Official Vistiors Center 7th AV & 53 ST
1-800-NYCVISIT www.nycvisit.com.
The Long Island Railroad Telephone # 718-217-5477. Hope this helps!

For Jeanette