New York hotel rooms for $100 or less

November 24, 10:13 AMNY Budget Travel ExaminerSusan Finch

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Even after living in New York for over 8 years, I was surprised to learn there are actually hotel rooms going for less than $100 in this money sucking city. So maybe naive tourists who show up looking for a deal aren't that far off after all.

Though you won't find bargain rates during holiday season, these low-budget options are ideal for unexpected guests who turn up for a weekend in Manhattan. You can always use the excuse that city apartments are just too small to accommodate. Not to mention the outer boroughs. My guests receive the pleasure of sleeping on an air mattress in our kitchen, which is inexplicably the largest room in the apartment.

Though our kitchen is quite sunny and cheery and features a dizzying array of amenities like a sink, washing machine but no dryer, and half-empty fridge, I'm thinking some affordable lodging alternatives are in order.

The quirky Harlem Flophouse (212-662-0678, 242 W 123rd St) is a haven for artists, dancers, and visitors looking for a little uptown flavor with more space than most New York budget hotels. Four rooms feature a double bed, sink, and two communal baths with antique claw foot tubs. A futon with linens can also be made available at no extra charge. Rates start at $100 on up to $175 depending on the season and day of the week.

For bargain hunters seeking refuge in the West Village, send them to The Jane Hotel (212-924-6700, 113 Jane Street) for a $99 room.  Their tiny accommodations offer a single bed, a few drawers, TV and DVD player, iPod docking station, luggage rack, and free WiFi. Next year, 140 additional rooms will open at the hotel, with 30 queen-bed rooms going for over $200.  Considering its coveted location, that's still a bargain.

The recently opened L-Hostel (212-222-3299, 159 West 118th St) on the Upper West Side combines low-cost, communal hostel living with luxury.  I toured the property a few months ago and was surprised to see 3 private, mini-penthouse suites with views of Manhattan. Though the rooms were small, one had private rooftop access for a romantic evening or small gathering. The rest of the building offers communal rooftop access, courtyard space, kitchen privileges, bunk bed rooms, private doubles with shared bathroom, private doubles with ensuite bathroom, and 4 person rooms for smaller groups starting at $18. WiFi and breakfast are also included.

For other low-budget options in proximity to Central Park and city shopping, try The Pod Hotel (212-355-0300, 230 E 51st St) in bustling Midtown. This colorful, funky hotel hosts 360 rooms with tiny bathrooms in most rooms, sinks, small work area, free WiFi, and communal outdoor patios and roof deck.  Small, single rooms with shared baths start at about $89.

If your guests are looking for more upscale hotels that don't skimp on space and luxury amenities, try your luck with Priceline and Hotwire for 3 and 4 star hotels. But before you log onto Priceline, visit betterbidding.com to get advice and insight on bidding strategies for your neighborhood or hotel of choice.

Please check all information, prices, and details before booking. Resort offerings may have changed since this offer was published.

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Email me your budget travel questions and challenges at travelexaminer@yahoo.com.  I'll post them here and help you get on the open road.