Anyone have any reasonably priced Manhattan hotel recommendations?
My family (13-, 7-year old, wife and me) hasn't gone out of state (Texas) for vacation since 2009 when when took a touring vacation of Colorado. But we've scrimped and saved for a couple of years to pull off a NYC vacation.
We're going Thanksgiving week (and we know what that means for expenses). I've consulted guide books and websites, but for some reason, I'm having a hard time trusting their recommendations for hotels.
So if any of my fellow DU'ers have stayed in any NYC hotels for which they're willing to recommend, I am and ears, and you have my deepest gratitude.
Thanks! 
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and can't imagine why proximity to Penn Station would be a BAD thing! Public transportation and proximity to lots of stuff (mid-Manhattan, after all) are GOOD things, imo.
P.S., may be a plus or minus for you, but many participants in Westminster dog show stay there; they make special accommodations for doggies and their handlers.
Have a great time, and let us know how things are coming, planning-wise.
Morningside Heights).
It didn't have much in the way of cooking facilities but was really comfortable and I think can sleep 2 adults and 2 kids. It's 2 blocks from major subways.
I would look around VRBO or home away and see what you can find. The place we stayed is no longer listed, but there are others.
And for a family, it is really much more comfortable and a better value overall, imo.
If that is the case, I think the onus would be on the renter not you.
FWIW, I have used both sources for vacation rentals all over the country for many years. I have never once had a single problem with them.
I find they are always cheaper than a hotel room, particularly when you factor in food costs.
For a family, being able to make sandwiches and coffee and a little breakfast can save you a bundle.
Great story about your DC score.
They describe it as near Columbia and all of the reviews speak positively about the neighborhood, including how close this is to the subways.
Harlem has changed so much in the last 20 years. It is highly gentrified, but remains really interesting. We walked extensively around Harlem during our last trip and found it safe and comfortable.
Of course, it's not in the middle of things, but the subway can get you there in a hurry.
Looks like you found a great place!
I usually fly Southwest and they're not affiliated with Expedia. (They also haven't posted their flights for November yet). Plus, we're now leaning toward a vacation rental from VRBO, too, instead of a hotel.
Thanks for telling me your experience with Expedia. It's kinda like a few experiences I've had with Priceline, in that we've been given rooms WAY, WAY in the back of the hotel or right next to the boiler room, etc. But I guess in the end, you usually get what you pay for.
NYC hotels are subject to an 18.25% tax. 
