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NYC Hotel Recommendation

I know people look for recommendations for NYC here so...Just got back from a few days in NYC (yes, January can be a pretty good time to go - temps were in the 50s). I stayed at the Cambria Hotel in Chelsea (123 W 28th St, between 6th and 7th Ave).

Pros: Great location in the "flower district" of Manhattan (plant shops and florists lining the streets). I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the room (huge by NYC standards, with king bed, couch, closet) and the quiet (get a room at the back, not facing the street). Fridge, microwave and pod-coffee in room. Hot water is HOT - I could actually make a cup of tea using the water from the tap. Subway stop for the 1 is half a block; 2 blocks to the R and the W stop. Friendly front desk staff. Starbucks nearby, as well as a Pret and a Quotidian (bakery/sandwich chains). Whole Foods is a few blocks away; Duane Reed (pharmacy) is at the corner.

Cons: Nothing in lobby for coffee (and no breakfast but that's not unusual in NYC). Bathroom was tight even for me (I am not a big person), with door opening inward - almost have to stand in the shower to open the door. Room furnishings can best be described as "tired." Closet door doesn't quite close, things are scuffed. Couch was stained (not enough to prevent me from sitting though). But everything was as clean as it could get, as far as I could tell.

I paid about $187/night - because, January. In June that price will probably be $350.

I go to NYC a couple times a year. This hotel is now on my list of stays to check (list also includes Freehand, the Pod chain, Arlo).

Posted by
601 posts

Thanks Rebecca, I too love a trip to NYC and finding as cheap as possible hotel, weighing safety, location and conditions of said hotel. It’s good to have another place to check. How was your January weather? I’ve been twice during the winter and it’s worked out ok, but it’s still New York. I have stayed in the 51st St Pod several times. It’s usually the price winner.

Posted by
3447 posts

Thanks for the recommendation. I want to see an upcoming exhibition at the Morgan Library - this would be a great choice.

Posted by
4162 posts

There are several real blockbuster shows coming to the Morgan. I'm curious , which one is catching your eye ?

Posted by
4162 posts

I had a feeling this is the one - I've just started Christopher De Hamel's new book " The Manuscripts Club " . Being very fond of illuminated manuscripts , this really grabbed me , The last chapter is about Belle Da Costa Greene . I'm ;looking forward to this one too , with great anticipation ! The one on Beatrix Potter , and the show on The Ballet Russes , are also high on my plans . https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/11/books/review/the-manuscripts-club-christopher-de-hamel.html?unlocked_article_code=1.N00.c73y.AgrSIW7gkX_T&smid=url-share

Posted by
465 posts

@Lyndash - weather in NYC in January was great this year and last year, second week in January or so. Little to no rain, temps in the 50s. Great for walking, and this location is ideal for that. A longer walk to Broadway - a mile? - but not undoable. I have also stayed at Pod 51, but not in a while. Have stayed at Pod Times Square, but don't like the second floor lobby in that area (as a single female traveler, doesn't feel real safe to stand in the open ground floor, waiting for an elevator).

I am always looking for well-located, decent hotels in lower midtown, they are getting a bit harder to find! I hate spending a lot of money for a space I'm not going to spend a lot of time in...even the Pods are getting a bit pricey considering what you get (tiny rooms, but always clean and tech friendly).