New York is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in, and to visit. However, travelers can find some discounts if they're willing to take the time to shop around for better prices on entertainment and accommodations. There are any number of great places that a visitor to the city can stay at for less than $300 per night.
Paying $300 per night is a great deal of money for a hotel room. As long as you're not intent on booking the luxury suites, you can stay at many of New York's top hotels for less than that price. With the exception of notable legendary hotels such as the Waldorf or the Ritz, you should be able to find a room for under $300. The Sofitel New York, The Hilton Garden Inn at Times Square and the San Carlos all provide a top-of-the-line Manhattan stay, and rooms can be had at each hotel for under $300 if you book ahead and shop for deals.
Right in New York City itself there are budget hotels everywhere that follow the affordable pricing structures that are laid out by the parent company. Although they might be slightly more expensive than their sister hotels that are in less prestigious locations, you can be sure that some of the lower-end chain hotels will have affordable prices in New York City. The Howard Johnson Express in the East Village and the Econo Lodge Times Square location are both good places to find accommodations for less than $150.
There are a number of smaller, locally-owned hotels scattered throughout Manhattan that can provide visitors with an affordable place to stay that is more interesting than more mainstream accommodations. In Chelsea, you could try the Colonial House Inn, which combines a small local art gallery with a hotel. Prices start under $100. In Midtown East, try the Pod Hotel. The Pod Hotel features a rooftop garden, a group lobby and extremely hip and modern decor. Single and bunk beds are available for under $200, while a double or queen bed cost in the under $300 range.
The important thing to remember when looking for affordable deals on hotels in New York City is that the prices fluctuate more in New York than they do almost anywhere else in the world. From year to year as supply and demand in the tourist industry rises and falls, you will see massive swings in hotel room prices. You will also see huge price spikes if special events are taking place near the hotel, or during certain parts of the year. The "when" of your booking can play as much of a role in the price as the "where." If you are flexible on your dates, shopping around can often net you prices under $300 even in the more traditionally expensive hotels.
