Hostels
Although they are traditionally known as a backpacker mainstay, hostels in Manhattan have far more to offer than no-frills dorm rooms filled with bunk beds these days. It's possible to find private rooms or those with shared bathrooms, at a fraction of the cost you would pay in a hotel. Most now come equipped with such four-star amenities as Wi-Fi Internet access, swimming pools, a spa, 24-hour reception, continental breakfast and posh common rooms. Another benefit of living the hostel lifestyle for a few nights lies in the fact that a hostel provides an engaging way to meet other travelers, particularly for those hitting the road on a solo adventure. Hostelling International is the most trusted name all over the world, but new boutique hostels have sprung up all over the island to compete.
Hostelling International New York
891 Amsterdam Avenue
New York, NY 10025
212-932-2300
hinewyork.org
Chelsea International Hostel
251 West 20th Street
New York, NY 10011
212-647-0010
chelseahostel.com
Apartment Rentals
Though not be an option if you are just passing through New York for a night on your way to some other destination, renting an actual an apartment may provide a way to save money if you plan on experiencing all the city has to offer for a few nights or more. Searching rentals websites such as Craigslist or private short-term rentals companies can yield some interesting sublets that give you all the comforts of home at a fraction of the cost.
Manhattan Lodgings
212-677-7616
manhattanlodgings.com
Couch Surfing
Even if you don't know anyone in the Big Apple, you can connect with like-minded individuals who manage to foster cultural exchange and give you a clean, warm place to sleep at the same time. Through the use of social networking sites, you could connect with those individuals in Manhattan who are willing to let strangers stay for free in exchange for good conversation and a mutual learning experience. For the outdoors enthusiast, this can provide a great way to garner more information about the undiscovered trails upstate.
Proceed with caution in any situation where you may meet with strangers off the Internet. The main website for couch surfing includes identity verification systems and testimonials from those who have stayed with the hosts before; look at this information closely for a positive and safe experience.
Couch Surfing International
couchsurfing.org
Article Written By Rachel Powers
Currently based in Portland, Ore., Rachel Powers received her B.A. from Emerson College in writing, literature and publishing in 2002. Since then she has been published in the printed "Shecky's Guide to New York City," and has been writing health and beauty-related articles for an ongoing international client base.
