Also, in case anyone's interested, I found this info on tax rates from starwood's website when looking at hotel prices there. I found it interesting anyway. :)

occupancy tax of $2 per room per night
hotel unit fee of $1.50 per room per night
city tax of 5% per room per night
state tax of 8.63% per room per night

So, tax on a hotel room should be 13.63% + $3.50/night. Or, 15% on a room that is $255/night, 18% on a room that is $80/night or 21% on a room that is $47/night.

jlm -

With you list of hotels you have just made everyone's point - a 4* hotel (including tax) is around $300 and a 5* will be more like $500.

Not sure why you keep listing more hotels that just prove everyone else's point.

Ok it looks like a toss up between the UN Plaza and the intercontinental barclay at the same price. Checked out trip advisor but anyone got any further advice

Thanks

regarding restaurants and valentine day, check out a few on
www.opentable.com

The UN Plaza looks more modern (it was built in the 60s, I think) with lots of mirrors in the lobby and the bar. It has the enclosed rooftop pool I mentioned earlier, not a common amenity in hotels in NYC. Many of the rooms have nice views, either skyline or of the East River. Also, many of the room have been renovated/updated (I think it's the east tower that's been updated). The main downside to the UN Plaza is it's not that close to a subway stop, maybe a 10 minute walk to Grand Central. The upside to the location is the area is pretty quiet and you rarely hear complaints about any noise.

The Intercontinental Barclay is much more traditional decor and more centrally located. You're not likely to have much of a view there, but it does feel like an elegant hotel.

So based on what you originally said you wanted, modern and a view, the Mill. UN Plaza sounds like the better option. But I'll repeat what I said earlier, I'd book something now that's cancellable and wait to see what specials might be available on travelzoo or elsewhere closer to the date. You could well find something cheaper and/or closer to Times Square if that interests you.

I'd go with the Millenium on 1st Ave. Right around the corner are a couple of restaurants and there is a crosstown bus that will take you easily to the westside. At 42nd St the island is little under a mile wide, and being on the east side you are closer to Museums which are mainly on 5th Ave.

I think the hotel was built in the late 70's early 80's so it is quite nice and the views from the higher floors should be excellent. When you book ask for a room on a higher floor.

Have a great time while you are here, oh and bring WARM clothing it will be COLD.

Have booked The Barclay, because of the location and in Feb we dont want to be walking any further than needed. Thanks for the advice