I need help finding the best deal for hotel lodging in mid-town manhattan the last week of April 2008. Any hints, tips. Looking for 3-4 star at $200 or less. Am I crazy?

For that price, I think your best bet would be Priceline.

$200 does not = a 4* hotel in NYC any more unless it's some special (look at travelzoo.com) or at a slow time like Jan-March. You may find a 3* but not a great one. Radiocityapartments.com is an acceptable 3* that might be $205 (plus tax of 15%) if it's available. Agree that Priceline is a possibility if you're just 2 and not staying for more than 4-5 days.

If you are willing to go outside midtown, you'll find more options. The Washington Square hotel in the village if available is usually around $225 plus tax.

Chelsealodgesuites.com is more like an apt. but rents for about $200/night just south of midtown.

Amen to Priceline, but begin your search on Biddingfortravel.com about two months before. I've gotten the Hilton at Rockefeller Center and the Millennium Hilton next to the UN, for much less than $200, but it depends on what's going on in town. Conventions? Races? Check with the NYC Chamber of Commerce to see what's going on that week, or ask here on Fodor's or TA.

Thanks for the input.

The Millenium Hotels often have a rate of $199nt, but you have to look around to find it.

I'd suggest checking some of the websites for travel sites, like www.hotels.com or www.travelocity.com so you can get an idea of what hotels are charging for your dates of travel.

Also check the Century 21 Department Store website, they often have discounted rates for the Millenium Hotel next door, and a shopping certificate as well, for staying there. www.c21stores.com

Hope this helps.

I rented a one-bedroom apartment on the Upper West Side (76th and West End Avenue) at the end of November for $175/night on Craig's List. It was clean, comfortable, and convenient. If you'd like to know more, email me at the above address at aol dot com. This place is very popular, so you need to reserve well in advance. I know some people do not feel comfortable using Craig's List, but I have had nothing but good luck with it for years, and this is one of the best deals around. I am not affiliated in any way with the owner--just enjoyed his apartment and want to let others know about it.