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New York City on the cheap

STAFF WRITER

Everybody likes a bargain -- especially when they're heading off on vacation. Of course, Manhattan is one of the toughest hotel towns on the planet, and it's hard to find a place to stay that's remotely affordable. But bargains can be found. Here's our guide to moderate-priced but well-located rooms.

La Quinta Inn Manhattan
17 W. 32nd Street
212-736-1600

www.lq.com
This old-fashioned wedding cake of a building houses standard guest rooms that include e-mail, coffee makers and movies on demand. The hotel is close to Macy's and Madison Square Garden and a quick walk to the galleries and shops of Chelsea. A rooftop bar looks out on the Empire State Building, and there's a restaurant as well. Rates start at $189 per night.

Newton Hotel
2528 Broadway
212-678-6500
www.thehotelnewton.com A classic-looking hotel on the Upper West Side is a true New York City bargain, with room rates that start around $160 for a room with private bath (less, if you don't mind sharing). Rooms are simple (singles can be a little cramped), but they're clean and pleasant. The location, at 95th and Broadway, puts you within walking distance of the uptown museums, plus plenty of restaurants and bars.

Thirty Thirty Hotel
30 East 30th Street
800-497-6028
www.thirtythirty-nyc.com
A relative newcomer, Thirty Thirty is a stylish hotel between the Flatiron District, with its plethora of restaurants and bars, and Midtown. Rooms, while small, are nicely decorated and include amenities like hair dryers and cable TV. There is also a restaurant in the hotel. Rates start at about $159 per night.

Regency Inn & Suites NY
215 West 34th Street
212-947-5050
www.regencyinnandsuitesny.com
Reliable if not glamorous, the Regency Inn, formerly the Howard Johnson Penn Station, is a good choice for families. Located near the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden and the Theater District, the hotel offers rooms that are simple and clean, with amenities like in-room coffee makers, complimentary breakfast, hair dryers and cable TV. Rates start at $129.