Special New York Hotels

New York hotel rates have skyrocketed recently, but with careful planning, you can still find a stay you will love. My picks for the best accommodations include pet friendly hotels, hotels with balconies, and affordable suites in neighborhoods I adore. (Extra points for in-room coffee makers!) My favorite area is the Upper West Side, but to step outside my comfort zone, I spent a couple of holiday nights in Chinatown. Enjoy your stay, and let me know what your must-haves are!

The Wallace

OK, I must admit this hotel is a bit out of my price range, but I love it! I treated myself, my dog, and friends during my January birthday week, which is when New York hotel rates plummet. I chose it mainly because it was Roxie's first time in a big city, and the hotel is less than two blocks from Riverside Park and a great dog park. Why this human loves it: a very quiet street, supremely fabulous staff, snacks, an in-room espresso maker, and very comfy rooms. The Wallace Lounge is a bit chi chi for me (reservations needed), but they make up for it by offering french fries with their signature cocktails during Happy Hour! It doesn't hurt that a fabulous coffee shop is just a block away, along with three classic New York groceries: Citarella, Fairway Market, and the king of bagels and lox, Zabar's.

A less expensive option, just around the corner, is The Belleclaire Hotel, which is also one of the many pet friendly hotels in the area.

Lucerne Hotel

All too often, I fall for a hotel that then changes ownership (like the Arthouse Hotel, which I look forward to trying since it reflagged from NYLO hotel;  it still is pet friendly and has lots of balconies!). One great longstanding hotel that has remained unchanged is The Lucerne, located in the Upper West Side. It features spacious rooms, old-fashioned decor, and a fabulous French bistro attached. However, it is NOT pet friendly, has no balconies, and offers some city views. The rooms are dated but spacious and very comfortable. There is a Welcome Wine Hour, and you are on the same block as a well-preserved Banksy! The Lucerne is on West 79th Street, and rates should be well under $300.

Another great non-pet friendly option is The Beacon Hotel, next to the fabulous theatre of the same name.

Content on it's way.

Check out Nobleden Hotel, corner of Little Italy and Chinatown!  For a splurge book the King Penthouse with terrace! For a highly reviewed bargain stay in Chinatown, check out the Hotel Mimosa.  Both hotels are highly reviewed on the indespensable  Tripadvisor.