My wife and I plan to be in NYC for a Friday night and Saturday night in late September or early October. Preferred hotel location would be midtown - meaning, by that, from 40th north to Central Park South. Our budget allows for $400 per night, and we're looking for a room that's relatively quiet and at least average in size with modern amenities.

From my research so far, the Sofitel seems to fit the bill and I can get a room today for almost exactly $400. The Palace also sounds good at a similar price. How do folks rate the Michelangelo against these? What would other favourite choices be within my parameters?

Also, most importantly, can I expect prices to drop over time, or are they likely to stay flat given the time of year for this trip? If prices are likely to drop, how much might I get a room for in hotels like these on a more last-minute basis? Lastly, would it be reasonable to expect prices at the truly top-end hotels ever to dip down into my range?

Thanks in advance.

No, prices will not drop because Labor Day through New Years is peak season and I'd bet Manhattan averaged 95% occupancy during that same period last year.

They also have the highest ADR in the country at $240 per night.

Of your hotels, I'd choose in this order Michelangelo, The Palace, Sofitel.

The Palace is more Midtown East than Central Park South (Geography Police!).

Don't wait, book now and if the price drops the hotel will likely lower yours or upgrade you. I would not hold my breath tho.

To finish, top end hotels like The Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, St. Regis, Pierre, The Carlyle, Pennisula, etc will NOT drop into your price range.

They most likely all start about $100-$250 over your budget.

In your range, check out The Benjamin and Le Parker Meridian.

GoTravel's advice to book now is right on! If you see something that you can live with (and can be canceled in case of a change in plans or a better deal comes a long) book it! September and October is a busy time and prices will not drop.

If you can find something you like reserve it now. Prices will only go up and places will start to sell out since Sept through Christmas is high season in NYC.

No - the only time you might find really top end hotels at that price is in Jan or Feb (except Valentine's Day Week). Other than that they are generally $600 and up.

And don't forget you need to add 18% tax to all prices you have been quoted. IMHO I like the location of the Sofitel more but the Palace may be a trifle more elegant.

Hi there, grantop

What's shaking?

I have not stayed at either the Sofitel or Palace, but The Michelangelo is usually my choice for a NY stay. Location is great for walking to theaters and many excellent restaurants.

The rooms that I have been in are spacious and well decorated, the hotel is relatively small and has a nice lobby, the continental breakfast is enough to get the day started, and the concierge has always been helpful.

Thanks for the advice so far. Does anyone else have a view on the Michelangelo vs. the Palace vs. Sofitel?

Also check www.hotels.com for more suggestions. You input your dates of travel and you can see the rates for lots of hotels, amenities and location.

Have a great time.

Hi TheColonel,
Tripadvisor.com is a website I use when I'm trying to decide between hotels (besides Fodor's that is). Also, I know you may be getting close to deciding, but Quikbook.com is what I use to book NY hotels - I've been lucky with the rates on that site, and you can specify the neighborhoods that you want.