Although New York City is notoriously one of the most expensive cities in America for overnight lodging, there are creative ways to sleep without inflicting nightmares on your wallet. From traditional hotels to hostels and even "Pod" hotels, one doesn't necessarily have to park themselves in the outer circles to find bargains. It is possible for you to find inexpensive accommodations in even the midtown areas.
By far, the best way to find hotel bargains in New York City is by surfing the Internet. Many hotel chains offer bargains directly from their own web sites, while also making rooms available for discounts through the many travel booking sites commonly used by savvy travelers. Consider "bidding" on hotel rooms at sites that allow you to name your own price.
If you want to attend an event in New York City, it's always a good idea to book far in advance of your planned arrival date. However, there are plenty of great discounted rates for last-minute bookings, when hotels are faced with otherwise empty rooms. Be sure to check multiple web sites, because rates can vary substantially.
For a fun and very "hip" stay in the city, at unusually low prices, check out the newest concept of "Pod" hotels. The Pod Hotel in the trendy Midtown East part of the city is located just steps from Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, with very small rooms that include MP3 player docking stations, free wi-fi, and LCD televisions. Only the smallest rooms have shared bathrooms, with streaming music, and include in-room displays to show availability (double size rooms and above have private baths.)
While established chain hotels are prevalent in New York City, there are also hundreds of individually owned accommodations that might be more likely to negotiating their prices, including Bed and Breakfast establishments. Hostels, while traditionally associated with students or younger travelers, are increasingly being utilized by people of all ages in the city, with private rooms available at some. Prices are far lower than at traditional hotels.
After researching a hotel's Internet deals, be sure to also call them directly for a chance of even better deals. Even after being quoted a price, always ask "is this the lowest price you can offer?" Reservation agents are often trained to quote a higher rate initially, but you can actually book your room for less if you are persistent.
