There are several other apt/hotels in the east and west 50s, but I'd only be guessing at the identity. I can't think of any that have "a 24 hour fitness centre" so now I'm really curious. Hope you will post back and fill us in. ;)

mamadadapaige, there are also several recent threads questioning how true many of the posts on TripAdvisor are. There have been numerous documented ones that were set ups by owners or representatives, or by otherwise disgruntled guests. Why post that you felt a place was merely overpriced, when you can do more "damage" by claiming that you got bedbugs? I take all those posts with a huge grain of salt.

here is the response i got from apts2book on property #30 (the location is ideal for me, considering we are visiting family at 240 CPS) - any ideas what it is?:

"please note we do not provide the full address of our properties until we are sure of a reservation, but please note the property is located at 57th Street between 7th Avenue and Avenue of the Americas. Also please note the apartments at this property have fully equipped kitchen (not shared)."

Gosh what a small world. I had 2 VERY close sets of friends who lived at
240 CPS and I also sometimes use the dentist there off the lobby. But back to your issue, on 57th st. b/w 7th & 8th, it's the Buckingham Hotel. Photos match.

http://www.buckinghamhotel.com/hotel...floorplans.cfm

I've never been inside. Mostly glowing reviews

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Rev..._New_York.html

Go for it! Ideal location for you.

yes, small world.

I booked the Buckingham Hotel. We will be in an Executive Suite for $259 per night.

It seems people love it for the location and spaciousness. The negatives seem to be cruddy bathrooms and tired rooms if you get one that isn't renovated.

I'm not too picky for this trip so it will be fine for us - my sister in law is going to swing by the Buckingham and check it out. I will let you know her findings and will also report back after we stay.

Thanks a million for all of your help. I ended up finding exactly what I originally hoped for.

Did you wind up booking it through apts 2 book, or quikbook or direct? Curious.

hi, i didn't mention it because i feel a little guilty...

i ended up booking direct: the main reason was that for the 18th, they only had one room left (17th, plenty of availability). less important, the price booking direct was $10 less per night. more important, i can cancel within 48 hours if need be, which with little kids in the mix is always a possibility.

I'd have done the same. Not to worry. Good to know though that you were able to get a better price. I hope you'll post after your stay. I don't know anyone who's stayed there.