TOP5: Best affordable hotels in New York
Pod 51, Midtown, Manhattan
Best for Manhattan sightseeing
A sought-after Midtown Manhattan location is the drawcard of this funky hotel. You’ll be within a 20-minute walk of big hitters including Times Square, the Rockefeller Center and the Museum of Modern Art, while locals’ favourite Greenacre Park is just steps from the door. There are stellar New York skyscraper views from the rooftop terrace, which is dotted with colourful Adirondack chairs, and the whole place has a fun, youthful vibe, with jazzy murals, bright linens and a café with a foosball table. The string light-filled terrace is a nice spot for a sundowner. Price room
The Harlem Flophouse, Harlem, Manhattan
Best for going back in time
There’s a whole lot of history at this Harlem bolt hole. The elegant Victorian brownstone became a lodging house in 1917, and offered boarding to people fleeing the South during the Great Migration. In its more recent history, it was snapped up by current owner René Calvo, who has lovingly renovated its four rooms, restoring its tin ceilings, filling them with period curios and installing impressive antique clawfoot tubs — you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped right into the Jazz Age. Only one room, the Ellington, has a private bathroom and there’s a live-in cat called Phoebe, too. Price room
The Jane, West Village, Manhattan
Best for West Village buzz
Another historic jewel in Manhattan, the Jane dates back to 1908 and originally served as a resting place for sailors — and also survivors of the sinking of Titanic in 1912. It retains a maritime theme today, with cabin-like rooms decked out in wood — the grandest among them are the Captain’s Cabins, which have en suite baths and often Hudson River views too. The lobby, ballroom and rooftop bar have sumptuous decor that belies the hotel’s low price point — think chandeliers, plush velvet seats and frescoed ceilings (though communal areas are closed until 2025 for renovations). You’re in the pulsating West Village, a few minutes’ walk from the High Line park. Price room
HI New York City Hostel, Upper West Side, Manhattan
Best for solo sightseers
There are private rooms available at this down-to-earth hostel with a top-drawer location in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Central Park is a short stroll away, and cultural landmarks such as the Museum of Natural History are within walking distance, too. The property itself is bright and cheerful, with a pool table and leather sofas in the common area, and a patio festooned with fairy lights and multicoloured umbrellas. There’s also a guest kitchen to self-cater in if you want to save some extra cash on a couple of nights. Price room
Carlton Arms Hotel, Kips Bay, Manhattan
Best for an arty escape
This boho retreat is one for freewheelers and creatives. Every inch of the place is stuffed with artwork: walls crawl with loud murals, and kitsch furnishings like Egyptian-style busts and sculpture lamps fill the compact rooms. Don’t expect too many luxuries here (apart from free wi-fi) — there’s no room service and the walls aren’t mounted with TVs. But the whimsical décor makes up for the relative lack of creature comforts. If you can tear yourself away, plenty of indie theatres, comedy clubs and galleries are on your doorstep. Price room
