"Cheers"
"Don't panic".

Now it's my turn to LOL.

Is your 12:34 post an attempt to once again "prove" your opinion is the correct one? If so, you're missing the point of why some people choose to stay - and live - there. Can't say I'm surprised though ;)

Since you used NeoPatrick's post previously to "clarify" opinions you considered "incorrect", you may find reading his trip reports - including a month at the WWP - interesting reading. Sorry you aren't understanding the midtown location POV. Nevermind. I doubt you'd be receptive now when you haven't been up to now.

So..."cheers". :-)

You seem to be having difficulty allowing me to present an opposing view to your bias. I haven't referred to opinions as incorrect, I've simply disagreed with your opinions.

btw: Times Square is the absolute WORST place for a first timer to stay. In my opinion. You should consider staying outside of mid-town for a broader, and arguably, more authentic NYC experience. I would advise others to consider this recommendation as well.

Cheers.

"btw: Times Square is the absolute WORST place for a first timer to stay."

A statement of opinion, not of fact. One could even say "You seem to be having difficulty allowing me to present an opposing view to your bias." ;)

I've stated it as such. You can quote me anytime you like....

In fact, here's my exact wording, just to clarify your mis-information. Again.:

"Times Square is the absolute WORST place for a first timer to stay. In my opinion."


Cheers.

When it's time to "Clarify(ing) a series of incorrect statements for the benefit of first time visitors", I will.

I promise you. I will.

As an opinion that is stated as fact and bears clarifying :-)

You've gotten almost too much information already and I've helped you on tripadvisor but I'll weigh in on a couple of things here.

If you have to have 2 beds, Priceline is not really an option for you but you could consider looking on Hotwire.com and booking a room for 3 people which would guarantee a room with 2 beds. I don't see any great offers there now, but that could certainly change.

For me it's not worth packing and unpacking for a 5 night visit (apart from the hassle, think of the time wasted) BUT if you do it, I'd do it either because it's saving a FORTUNE of money or you're really getting a totally different experience/area. I don't think moving from the Beacon to the Muse is worth the trouble. The Beacon is not that shabby--in fact pretty nice and close to what you'd have in an apt. rental and the Muse is not really that luxurious--no views, no grand rooms, no fancy restaurant. I can see moving from the Beacon to say the Palace or the Plaza or if you want to stay near Times Square for a few nights and use those nights to see shows the Sofitel with a view would make more sense to me....or to some place all the way downtown like the Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca or Trump Soho.

As to the whole debate about Times Square, OP has already said she's not that crazy about the idea. It's a personal decision. If you're coming for theater and like big hotels and big views and don't mind crowds, it's a great option. For this poster, I think at best staying NEAR but not right in TS might make sense. The Muse does that. The Sofitel does too but with some views on higher floors.

I had a look on quikbook.com and you can book a 2 queen bed room at the new Gansevoort Park for $484/night plus tax. This is not in midtown but not too far away. It's new, trendy and spacious and I think would be a great base and best of all, the booking is fully cancelable and doesn't require prepayment should you change your mind or find something better. Relative to other prices for that time, I think this is great value. For ex. the Fashion 26 is $419/night for a room with 2 doubles and I think not nearly as luxurious (but still a nice newish hotel with views).

You'll be here for Halloween which is one of the reasons prices are high at that time. There's a HUGE parade on the 31st that you will either want to somehow see or totally avoid, depending on your pov. http://www.halloween-nyc.com/

This is exactly why first time posters must wonder who the HE== we are. We sound like a bunch of rude, opinionated, snobs. Why can't we simply give our FIRST HAND EXPERIENCES and let the OP make up her own mind? I do find the continued bashing of anyone who wants to stay in the Times Square "AREA" to be quite over the top. There area many wonderful restaurants within an easy walk of this "AREA". Some residents sound as though they've never explored anything beyond the two blocks where the ball drops. Get out and give the place a look. With a <u>very little effort</u>, you will find a lot to enjoy.

As a "tourist" to NY, I'd take the advice of other "tourists". Residents have a very different view point -- different needs, different tolerance.

Katec1, Don't let all this snarking turn you off. It goes on here all the time with certain people. Glean through the information and take what you need, discarding the rest.

Happy Birthday to your Mum! Enjoy your trip.

Oh My Lady Gaga!

Just want to remind the OP that The Kitano was mentioned briefly here, and we stayed there at Christmas. Got a good rate via Hotwire, but think good rates are available otherwise, at times.

We had a room with two beds, and when they called the next morning offering to move us to a King, we declined. The two bed room was, well, roomy.

We thought the Kitano was a very nice hotel, with excellent bedding, robes, slippers, good toiletries and special service. I posted a review on tripadvisor.com.

We find that the ESB and Grand Central areas work for us. Good hotel rates (also stayed at Morgan's; fun but not of the same quality as the Kitano), lots of places to eat, and excellent transportation.

See, starrs? You've defined your little job here. Nice for you! :) ;) lol and Cheers!

Yes, let's leave the touring to the tourists. Are all the tourists at Bubba Gumps in Times Square? Really? I don't think so.

mclaurie: I also think the Sofitel is a nice option.

"For this poster, I think at best staying NEAR but not right in TS might make sense. The Muse does that."

mclaurie, I'm a bit confused where you would place the Muse if it's not in the Times Square area. You would have to pay me to stay right on 42nd street or Broadway or 7th at that Hilton or the Marriott Marquis or similar. But the Muse is a half block off the craziness and the Hampton Inn is a block away. It's amazing what a difference that small distance can make. I stayed at the Muse over Thanksgiving. We walked mere steps to the corner to watch the parade for a few minutes, could see the balloons from the window in the room but watched most of the parade on the TV while in bed. Steps away but the noise (and the lights and the craziness) of Times Square were not a factor. Ditto for the WWP - across the street from the Hampton Inn (and Hilton Garden Inn).

A lot of visitors don't have public transportation where they are from
A lot of visitors have never taken the subway/metro/tube.
A lot of visitors don't use public buses.
It doesn't make them stupid or ignorant or anything else.
It means they live somewhere those aren't transportation options.
Some of those get stressed when trying to figure out routes and schedules.
Some of those don't.
BUT MANY like the ability to walk a few blocks and be at their destination...rather than walking a few blocks to a subway station, navigating stairs (especially a problem with mobility issues), spending 20 minutes or so on a crowded subway car before exiting via stairs to their destination at ground level.

Hey, I LOVE staying in the nice 2br, 2bath apartment in a NEIGHBORHOOD on the UWS. But I do have to take a cab or a subway down to Midtown. If I'm headed to the Village it's twice as far than if I were staying in Midtown. If someone is in town for their first visit, with limited time, less travel time can be a plus.

It may not be a plus for others. That's fine. I like staying in all areas of the city - and Midtown and Times Square have their pluses.

I will say that it is absolutely ludicrous to state there are no museums or good restaurants in walking distances of 54th street. Ludicrous.

Bowsprit, thanks for your response regarding The Beacon. Sounds like it will be perfect for us. That is what I was hoping to hear!

I am a New Yorker by birth, who moved away 38 years ago this week, and therefore am now a tourist when I visit. Most often now, we stay with friends on the UWS or mid-town east side, but for years, we stayed in hotels all over the city. Times Square was incredibly convenient, being in the "middle" -- we stayed at the Marriott Marquis, the Renaissance, the Hilton and the Westin. We don't stay there now, as we prefer the UWS for its quiet neighborhood feel, and mid-town east side for its easy access to shopping, museums, etc., but we loved Times Square when our children were young. As did they. Not fact, just my opinion. My other "opinion" is that what works for tourists isn't necessarily what works for people who live in the city.

As for the size of the rooms at the Muse, why not just ask the hotel? I've emailed hotels from time to time to ask the number of square feet/dimensions in the room.

Regarding the use of the "M" for "metro" -- it isn't a term used much in NY, so like it or not, and whether or not "MTA" included the term "metropolitan" which shortens to metro, it's simply not the right terminology in NY. Isn't that the point of this board, to learn things like that? In New York, it's the subway, in London, it's the tube, in Paris, it's the metro, in San Francisco, it's BART. If you want to know how to get someplace by subway, that's what you have to ask. If you want to know where the subway station is, that's what you have to ask.

Don't know why you're confused starrs. You even quoted what I said accurately. The Muse IS in the Times Square <i>area</i> and I said, "...For this poster, I think at best staying NEAR but not right in TS might make sense. The Muse does that. The Sofitel does too but with some views on higher floors." All I'm saying is if I wanted to find a hotel for theaters, I'd prefer the Sofitel in a room with a view vs. a room at the Muse.

I think I'm confused because 1/2 block from the intersection of Broadway and 7th is pretty much AT Times Square.

I guess I get tired of so many anti-Times Square AREA* threads (not just today, but going back years) when there are really good hotel options nearby but not ON Broadway, 7th or 42nd.

In any case, I'm glad you agree that it's a good option as far as location goes. That's not often been the case with NYC locals when hotels like the Muse, Hampton Inn North and Hilton Garden Inn (both on 8th) have been recommended for visitors to the city - including (and sometimes especially) first time visitors.


*from Wiki -
The extended Times Square area, also called the Theatre District, consists of the blocks between Sixth and Eighth Avenues from east to west, and West 40th and West 53rd Streets from south to north, making up the western part of the commercial area of Midtown Manhattan.

PeaceOut: You're very welcome. Glad to help.

<i>"Are all the tourists at Bubba Gumps in Times Square? Really?"</i>

No, Bowsprit, some of them are at Le Bernardin. You should give it a try the next time you make one of your day trips into the city.

Forget Le Bernardin! The best macaroni and cheese I've ever had was at the Brooklyn Diner :-)

sf7307, the problem with asking the hotel about the size of rooms is that you rarely get an accurate answer. There are many types and sizes of rooms at The Muse. As I said, our "standard" room was tiny with a miniscule bath. But TC who says they stay there "all the time" seems to have lucked out with huge rooms. So what answer would you get from the hotel when you ask what room YOU will have? Of course if you want to pay much more than a standard room rate, they will be able to guarantee you a larger room, but if you book the lowest price, you're really at their mercy as to what size room you will get.

Meanwhile I just got a really good rate at a new Boutique Hotel on 44th by The Algonquin -- called the Mela. It's just for one night this Friday, but I'm anxious to check it out for $169 a night for their "superior" room.

I don't want to get into that tired argument about "the theatre district" often called Times Square being a horrible place to stay. But what some New Yorkers don't understand and never will is that if some of us wanted to stay in a quiet residential neighborhood, we'd stay home. What some of us tourists like about New York is what we can't get at home -- the bright lights, chaos, and excitement of Times Square. I suppose these same people go to Las Vegas and don't stay on the Strip, but stay out in the remote desert somewhere to get a "more authentic Las Vegas experience? Me? Again give me the bright lights and excitement of the strip. Just like staying in the Times Square area BY CHOICE in New York (even after having stayed in other areas).

Well I wasn't able to read this whole thread, but I'd like to put in my 2 cents.

I've stayed quite a few times at the Salisbury on 57th street. It's near central park and the rooms are quite large for NYC. Most have a refrigerator and microwave. There are two subway stations within a block. Breakfast (very good) used to be included, but I'm not sure that is still the case. More of a European feel.

The last time I visited NYC, Dec. 2009 we stayed at the Hampton Inn Times Square North and were quite impressed. It was extrememly crowded, as we were there between Christmas and New Year's. They have a good breakfast and it is convenient if you plan to see any Broadway shows. We used to avoid Times Square because it was very seedy, but it is great now. The hotel was chosen by my then 74 yr old mother!

I know these aren't 4* plus hotels, but I hate spending extra dollars on opulence when you can save that money for shows and restaurants. You won't spend that much time in your room anyway.

I have been so pleased staying at the Residence Inn Times Square. The rooms, with a kitchenette (sink, microwave, refrigerator) and a pull out sofa are spacious and clean. I love the location, quiet enough because it isn't right in Times Square but close to it and to Herald Square. There is also nice park close by. And... they have a huge complimentary breakfast buffet. Even if you don't eat it every day, it will save you a bundle and is so easy and convenient.

kate, if you are considering hotels like the Hampton Inn and Residence Inn do take a look at the almost brand new Staybridge Suites Times Square -
http://www.staytimessquare.com/defau..._on_us&rp=home

It's at 40th and 8th and offers free breakfast, afternoon reception, internet, business center,etc. The rooms have kitchens too.

Bwino stayed there for almost a month in December and loved it. I stay at one in Savannah and it's my new favorite hotel in Savannah. The rooms are nice, the beds are great AND they offer things that other hotels charge for free of charge.

From bwino - http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...mes-square.cfm

LOL sf7307, I just thought I'd mention a place that day trippers to NY might recognize.

Some of the best food I've had anywhere has been within walking distance of The Muse on 46th. I love Victor's for Cuban, Toloache for margaritas and guacamole, Joe Allen's has the best meatloaf in the world, Pomaire on Restaurant Row has very interesting Chilean food, even Dervish on 47th has a really tasty Turkish menu-- none may be well known, but the food is outstanding.

I think people who only spend a day in NY don't always have the time to seek out the small, interesting places unless it's right in their path.

I'll leave LeBernadin to others. I'm a Shake Shack fan. I hardly ever 'make a day trip' into the city; lately my trips are nearly always for at least 2 nights. Cheers! :)

The giant M stand for the Metropolitan Transit Authority - which includes the subways, the buses, the LIRR and Metro North (which is also not called the Metro - but the train). Any actual New Yorker would know this. Also the station entrances are also marked with the letter or number of the train. Is it called the Metro A or the Metro 6? You can say anything you want - but to communicate to others you need to say "subway".

As for restaurants - there are several excellent and some good ones near Times Square. there are also a host of absolutely dreadful places - including a bunch of the same awful places you will find at the local mall - but at much higher prices. There are good places to eat all over the city - but Times Square has more than it's share of the truly awful. As for going anywhere for mac and cheese - I don;t get it. hated it as a child and wouldn;t touch it now - like eating yellow glue.

And I'm not sure why we're recommending 3* basic chain places to someone who started out really wanting a 5*. Naturally, one can change one's mind - but some of this thread appears to have gotten off track.

Okay, here's an idea. It's where my mom and I first stayed shortly after Trump renovated his first hotel -

http://www.grandnewyork.hyatt.com/hy...tels/index.jsp

The Grand Hyatt - next to Grand Central

Opulent. Rooms are pretty big. Not in Times Square (although I prefer Times Square).

IF you mom is 62 you can get the Senior Rate. That drops it from just under $500/night to $383/night.

Take a look at it.

Kate, check another Kimpton hotel - the 70 Park Avenue.
The senior rates there for the dates I checked in October are $359 for two queen beds. The senior rate is for age 55 and over.

http://www.kimptonhotels.com/hotels/...otel-new-york/

Now, 70 Park Avenue is a really interesting suggestion. We were there for a conference last year and a block of rooms was reserved for attendees. The rooms are small. The bathrooms are tiny. They've put up a mirrored wall adjacent to the toilet to try to make the room seem bigger, but for whom? Well, for you, of course, sitting on the john! Odd and just a bad design choice. The rooms are showing signs of wear. The drawer of the nightstand has 'toys' you can purchase but those were dated too. I think this is the hotel that'll leave a brownie on the pillow at bedtime, but that might have been at Gild Hall. All these 3 stars are starting to blur together.

There's an old school, red sauce Italian restaurant nearly across the street from the hotel on the corner of 38th and Park: Rossini's. You can get a decent bowl of pasta and a nice glass of Chianti in the rather cozy bar area of this restaurant. The bartender is a good friend. Tell him Bowsprit sent you. Avoid the hotel restaurant. It served a terrible breakfast that was very expensive.

Cheers!

Hint for those booking 70 Park - join the Kimpton "In Touch" program. It is free and entitles you to free WiFi, a larger/nicer room and morning newspaper. The program is free to join: sign up first then make your reservation so you can attach the Kimpton # to your res. They also have a nice coffee service for all guests in the lobby each morning, coffee, flavored syrups, tea selection etc. And all guests can also attend the complimentary wine reception each evening. The hotel also often runs a program called "Breakfast for $1" where for an extra $1 you can help yourself to the continental breakfast of juice, fruit, bagels, toast, cereals, hard boiled eggs, pastries, yogurt and granola. Hot cooked items are extra. The service in the Silver Leaf Tavern is very attentive in the morning and you will not wait more than a minute for a coffee re-fill! We spent 5 nights there in August, the queen-deluxe room on the 17th floor was fine as was the size of the bathroom - plenty of space. Watch their website, I booked for under $150 last summer but the rates changed frequently

If you stay at the Hyatt join their Passport Program and enjoy complimentary Starbucks coffee in the lobby each morning, you be assigned a "passport" room that is usually larger, and you'll receive a complimentary newspaper each morning. They also have some of the fastest elevators in the city!

Neither hotel is a 5-star, but both offer a comfortable stay. You would probably get more personal attention at 70 Park as it is smaller, and I have found the rooms are better sound-proofed than the Hyatt.

Added note: the room I booked last summer had 1 queen bed, so your rate would higher for 2 beds.

Margo_Chester: Kimpton's 'In-Touch Program' and $1.00 breakfast deal sound like a very good idea.

The Muse is discounted on your nights of stay at www.expedia.com

Also on expedia, two double beds at NY Hilton is $275 and at the New York Helmsley $350

HI Kate, I had the exact same delima for our trip to NYC in November/December last year, we really wanted an apartment and searched for ages on that front then found out it was illegal and decided we had to go for a hotel. As starrs said, we ended up at the Staybridge Suites in Times Square. The hotel is new, or newly renovated, and is really lovely and less than your budget. The room has a full size fridge, two burner hot plate, microwave, coffee maker and all the kitchenware to self cater or heat take aways you are likely to need. Very comfortable bed with good quality linen, plenty of towels, flat screen TV and all very modern, clean and fresh.

We went for a view room on one of the higher floors and had no street noise at all. Would highly recommend this hotel, location was great for going anywhere in Manhattan. Breakfast is included in the rate, cereals, fruit, yohurt, pastries, plus eggs and bacon / sasuages etc, served buffet style. The breakfast area can get crowded but they provide take away containers as well so you can take to your room or head out for your day of activities with your breakfast.