10 Tips for a Hotel Stay in New York City

Before you embark on your New York journey read about the hotels that will make your stay a memorable one.

The Library in Midtown Manhattan

The Library Hotel is more 'literati' than 'glitterati': more private club than hotel. Each of the ten guestrooms is dedicated to one of the ten major categories of the Dewey Decimal System: Social Sciences, Literature, Languages, History, Math & Science, General Knowledge, Technology, Philosophy, The Arts and Religion. Each of the sixty rooms is individually designed with a collection of art and books relevant to one distinctive topic within the category of floor it belongs to. Guests may request their room based on their personal interests. The Writer's Den with its skyline views and the Poetry Garden, a sparkling green house, are perfect places to relax and absorb this culture.

Tips:

Access to the hotel's video library of the American Film Institutes top 100 films -- Monday through Saturday there's a complimentary wine and cheese reception -- For the night time players, magical nights await you at the Bookmarks Lounge on the 14th floor, which serve signature cocktails like the Great Gatsby and the Capote.

Sofitel New York in the Manhattan area

The contemporary 30-story Sofitel New York, represents the French art of living through its décor. Art work of old Paris and New York fill this space. Traditional French fare is served at the French brasserie, Gaby Restaurant and even the staff uniforms are designed by renowned designer Jean Charles de Castelbajac. Guests will enjoy the hotel's evening turndown services, which include Evian water and a fresh cut rose. The Art Deco sitting room is the perfect place for some downtime as well as viewing the extensive collection of contemporary art that adorns the walls. The hotel's award winning design surrounds a 30-story curved tower bordered by two 20-story wings, which overlooks the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building.

Tips:

Don't leave New York without sampling the inventive French cuisine with Asian influences, served up at the Art Deco inspired, Gaby Restaurant -- The Petit Bijou gift shop is an exquisite emporium with items imported from France.

The Hudson Hotel in the Midtown area

The Hudson Hotel is a brand new offering from hotelier extraordinaire, Ian Schrager. It is said to be the hippest hotel on the block with stunning views across the Hudson River. Designer, Phillipe Starke has created a fantastical world where flawless design dances with daredevil technology in a perfect combination of light, sound and shape. There's an exhibition kitchen restaurant, a lobby bar, and library bar with billiards, indoor and outdoor private park, and a ceiling fresco by renowned painter Francesco Clemente, 18.000 square feet of indoor/outdoor event space and a business centre. The design was inspired by ocean travel romance and the setting of a private cabin on an upscale yacht. Vogue Magazine describes the hotel as "surreal chic, brilliantly designed, and gorgeous."
Tips:

Hudson Sky Terrace located on the 15th floor is a large private landscaped terrace where you can enjoy cocktails and sweeping city and Hudson River views -- For your sleeping pleasure, Hudson beds have Egyptian cotton sheets with 300 thread count.

The Dream Hotel in the Midtown area

The Dream Hotel in New York was opened by socialite-hotelier Vikram Chatwal in 2004. The décor includes a copper statue of Catherine the Great, Neptune and Madonna with child, all surrounded by mismatched armchairs. The design theme is best described as haute couture meets Alice in Wonderland 'whimsical'. This luxury playground has all the latest technology and three lounges each offering their own delights: Subconcious is subterranean lounge with a Labyrinth of Alcoves, the Epernay and Lobby Bar is a vibrant space designed by architect Mark Zeff and AVA, named after movie star Ava Gardner is the Dream Hotel's penthouse lounge which offers cocktails and stunning views of Time Square.

Tips:

The Chopra Center which is devoted to Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing science studied by founder Deepak Chopra is situated below ground. A glass elevator transports guests to this world of exclusive pampering - A feast of sublime Northern Italian cuisine awaits you at the Fellini-inspired restaurant, Serafina, designed by the Rockwell Group.

The 60 Thompson in the SoHo District

100 room luxury-driven lifestyle hotel by famed designer, Thomas
O'Brien is a favorite with the trendy downtown scene. The breathtaking rooftop "members" lounge, and Kittichai restaurant complement the modern and chic sensibility of 60 Thompson. This luxury hotel is set back from the street behind a courtyard of birch trees. The interior features photographs by Laura Resen and a roof garden that has a 360 degree view of Manhattan's skyline. This hotel was selected as "One of the World's Hottest Hotels" by Conde Nast Traveler and Entertainment Weekly named it the "It Hotel" for Entertainment elite.

Suggestions:

Indulge your senses in an elegant Thai restaurant Kittichai the ground floor with patio dining and a bar of gold in the bathroom - you feel like a princess in a swanky bathroom lined with marble mosaic floors, bath products and philosophy.

Trump International Hotel & Tower in Manhattan area

Location, location ... This hotel is certainly of prime real estate: at the foot of Central Park, and onlyacross Columbus Circle from the Time Warner Center. Opening in 1997, the contemporary 52-story tower hotel was designed by renowned architects Philip Johnson and Costas Kondylis. Today, Trump International Hotel & Tower is one of only four properties in North America to hold the prestigious Mobil five-star rating for both the hotel and its in-house restaurant, Jean Georges. With a host of unique innovations and complimentary amenities there is no doubt you're residing in the world of the super-rich, Donald Trump. The rooms have ten-foot high ceilings with nine-foot floor-to-ceiling windows so guests can have the pleasure of all-round views of Manhattan.

Tips:

A 6,000-square-foot health club with 55-foot indoor lap pool and a full-service spa -- For guests its business as usual at the 383 square feet Executive Boardroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Broadway and Lincoln Center -- Each guest receives personalized stationery and business cards along with a cellular phone on request.

Hotel Plaza Athénée in the Manhattan area

Located on the fashionable Upper East Side of Manhattan, this hotel brings a bit of Europe to the finest streets of New York. Renovated in 2003, and a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, the Hotel Plaza Athénée is without a doubt one of New York's finest hotels. This European-style boutique hotel with its 152 rooms is located on a tree-lined residential street that offers a peaceful and home-like atmosphere. All of the rooms and suites have French fabrics, period furniture, artwork, and rose aurora marble bathrooms and suites. Earth tones and smoking rooms bring back a bit of old-world charm.

Tips:

Serious shoppers paradise: walking distance to Madison Avenue with Georgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany's, Barney's, Bloomingdales and Bergdorf Goodman Department stores - - Don't leave New York without having a cocktail at the Seine and Arabelle Bars where Carrie Bradshaw sat and drank when they filmed Sex in the City.

The 70 Park Avenue Hotel in Midtown Manhattan

One of New York's most revered midtown hotels is situated near Grand Central Station, right on famous Park Avenue. The 70 Park Avenue Hotel recently went through an extensive multi-million dollar renovation under the direction of renowned residential designer Jeffrey Bilhuber, who has worked with celebrities such as David Bowie, Iman and Hubert de Givenchy. The hotel is decorated in warm earth tones and rich dark woods and the lobby living room features a 14-foot limestone and sandstone fireplace. The 188 newly decorated guest rooms including 6 parlors and 3 penthouse suites are bright and spacious with stylish neo classical décor and luxurious comforts.

Tips:

Leisure guests will find convenience in the walking distance from Fifth Avenue boutiques; the city's finest arts and cultural centers, which include the Museum of Modern Art, Empire State Building, United Nations, Broadway and Times Square - - The 2,000 square-foot Penthouse Suite with wrap-around balcony and great views from its 17th floor perch is ideal for swanky social events or parties.

The Benjamin in the Midtown area

Originally opened in 1927 as The Hotel Beverly it was considered one of world-renowned architect Emery Roth's most successful creations. The hotel was purchased and renovated to its original grandeur in 1999 by Affinia Hospitality and named after its founder, Benjamin J. Denihan, Sr. Today, this sophisticated, boutique style hotel has lavish marble bathrooms, rich mahogany-finished furnishings and a personal well-equipped business area, attracting both business and leisure guests. The Benjamin is famous for its custom-made mattresses adorned with Frette linens and down filled duvets. It's probably the only hotel in the world that offers a menu of ten different pillows! One block from Park Avenue businesses, near the Empire State Building, the United Nations, Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue shopping.

Tips:

One of only four Five-Globe ECOTEL, certified properties in the world, this eco-friendly hotel's core philosophy, encompasses every aspect of hotel operation and guest service -- The Affinia Wellness Spa is a holistic experience that will transform your mind, body and spirit.

The SoHo Grand Hotel in the SoHo area

Built in 1996 as the first hotel in SoHo in more than a century; the SoHo Grand Hotel was designed by Bill Sofield and architected by David Helpern. This 17-story The hotel is a favorite of entertainment and fashion. The Grand Bar & Lounge, known as "SoHo's living room" is also known, was recently redesigned by famed designer William Sofield. Famous guests Kevin Spacey, Spike Lee and Naomi Campbell. Animals have also stayed here stayed here. In fact, their dog toothbrush and toothpaste own condition. A total of 367 individually designed rooms, 16 foot windows draped with velvet curtains and a ceiling-900 lbsfashioned out of handmade mercury mirror glass embedded with chicken wire all make it the most fantastical place on earth.

Tips:

Near chic galleries, theaters, restaurants and shops: you'll definitely run into someone famous in the TriBeCa, Greenwich Village and meatpacking district --
Speaking of famous, the hotel's Gallery and Grand Bar & Lounge features the new 'out there' American cuisine like Maple Barbecued Quail and chocolate-dipped homemade graham crackers with brûléed meringue. Welcome to America!

Discount Vegas Hotels - How to Find a Great Deal on Your Next Las Vegas Vacation

Like any lively city, Las Vegas' hotel rooms vary in price and availability. In fact, on busy days, the rates can suddenly sky-rocket with little warning. Most visitors, tourists and business people flood the city all year round now and there are no real high or low seasons anymore. A room in a discount Vegas hotel can go for $30 a night, but the next day, it can reach as high as $399. However, for most people, the discount Vegas hotel is the only means of enjoying the pleasures and vices of Las Vegas.

As with any of the hotels, it is critical to book your rooms at the lowest rates available and then compare them to others elsewhere. A discount Vegas hotel on the main Vegas strip can start at about $90 - $150. The two main economy hotels include the Aruba Hotel & Spa and the Casino Royale. Off the strip, rates range from $59 - $329, including such names as the Ambassador Strip Inn Travelodge, Americana 5, Americas Best Value Inn Lake Mead, Americas Best Value Inn Tropicana, Best Western Mardi Gras Hotel & Casino, Super 8 Motel Koval Lane, Terribles Hotel & Casino, and the Wild Wild West Gambling Hall & Hotel. A downtown, airport, highway, speedway, lake or nearby discount Vegas hotel can range from $50 - $1241.

Visitors can choose from the El Cortez Hotel and Casino, Gold Spike Hotel and Casino, Golden Gate Hotel and Casino, Good Day Inn, Vegas Club Hotel and Casino, Western Hotel and Casino, Americas Best Value Inn (Speedway/Nellis A.F.B.), Super 8 Motel (Speedway/Nellis A.F.B.), Knights Inn at McCarran, Buffalo Hills Hotel and Casino, Whiskey Pete's Hotel and Casino, or the Gold Strike Hotel and Gambling Hall, most of which are within driving distance of Las Vegas' main strip and the rest are a maximum of 30km away.

A discount Vegas hotel offers varied amenities and services. Most include the basic room, maid service, pool and restaurant. Others may provide one or all of the following: room service, babysitting service, in-room safe, laundry/dry-cleaning facilities, business facilities, phones/Internet services, valet or free parking, and all will supply air-conditioning. However, not all hotels are created equally and it is imperative to read all hotel reviews before booking. The best reviews, of course, are found right here on this site.

Remember that your stay in a discount Vegas hotel should be affordable, comfortable, and memorable. In fact, your stay in Las Vegas should be one you will never forget, with the lasting happy memories of a vacation worth taking, which is possible even on a tight budget!

What to See in Singapore

When many people in the western world hear of Singapore, it's often the Singapore Sling cocktail that comes in mind. Most people don't really know where the country is and would probably never consider it as a travel destination. For any trip to southeast Asia, especially on longer excursions to multiple countries, Singapore is worth a stop as it provides a nice change compared to the usual crowded, polluted and chaotic large cities of Hong Kong or Bangkok. Singapore is an island, country and city all rolled into one.

Compared to other destinations in southeast Asia, Singapore is ultra clean thanks to its somewhat restrictive government. There are heavy fines for littering, spitting in the streets and jaywalking. It's even illegal to bring in chewing gum into the country. Drug offences can result in death penalties so travelers definitely should not take the risk by bringing any illegal narcotics into Singapore. But the result of all the tough laws is a place in the region that is quite low in crime rates. It is one of the safest destinations for female travelers where equality is encouraged.

With its gleaming high rise buildings, Singapore is one of the most modern cities in Asia due to its economic success. It also makes great efforts to make itself presentable and beautiful. On the trip from the international airport to the city center, it can be noticed that the bridges passing over the main highway are covered with orchards and flowers. This is something that one doesn't see often anywhere else in the world. The city center itself is well designed with the Singapore river running through it. River cruises are available to take in the local sights from the water. There are numerous outdoor cafes, restaurants and shops along side the river which makes for a pleasant stroll. Because of the hot temperatures here since Singapore is pretty well on the equator line, the city can feel like a giant sauna. So extended walks are suggested in the early mornings, late afternoons or evenings when things get a bit more comfortable rather than in the midday hear.

Singapore with its mixed population including Chinese (77%), Malay (14%) and Indian (7%) is a case study in multiculturalism. Everyone here lives and works together in harmony. Only in Singapore can one see a Buddhist temple, a Hindu temple and an Islamic mosque all in close proximity to each other. The country has four official languages being English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. One of the great advantages of such a multiracial scene is that there are different ethnic neighborhoods to check out including Chinatown, Little India and Arab Street. All have their own distinct flavors in little shops, markets and cuisine. In addition to restaurants, there are outdoor food vendors which serve very low priced meals so one can dine well at any budget level.

For horticulture enthusiasts, Singapore is a gold mine where there are world class gardens including the Singapore Botanic Gardens as well as the Chinese and Japanese Gardens. For nature lovers, there are some interesting attractions including the Jurong Bird Park, Jurong Reptile Park, Singapore Crocidilarium, Singapore Zoological Gardens and the very unique Night Safari which is open only during evenings. Sentosa is a small resort island south of the city with a scenic cable car, an aquarium and some nice beaches.

In addition to the modern skyline and the contrasting ethnic temples, there is still some wonderful colonial architecture including the famous Raffles Hotel where the Singapore Sling was originally invented. If one wishes to stay indoors during the hot midday sun, there are several museums including the National Museum to take in. Singapore has some Asian theme parks such as Tang Dynasty City which is a recreation of life during 7th century China and Haw ParVilla Tiger Balm Gardens which has colorful statues depicting Chinese mythology. High end boutique shopping for fashion and electronics will be concentrated on or near Orchard Street.

It is a good idea to take a quick organized city tour to get an overview of what Singapore has to offer. Then tourists can easily take advantage of the very efficient bus and subway system known as Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) to go pretty well anywhere on the island for selected sights of interest. A nice thing about Singapore is that it is pretty compact and easy to get around. It won't take long to see all the sights and attractions one would be interested in so even a few days is all that would be required. Singapore would be the much needed change of pace within a longer hectic southeast Asian tour.

5 Best Hotels on Coronado Island

Coronado Island in San Diego is one of the top vacation destinations in California. In addition to perfect, year-round weather, great beaches and a ton of cultural attractions, Coronado also has some of the best hotels in the state. Here are the top 5 hotels you'll find in Coronado Island.

Village Inn Coronado Bed and Breakfast

In terms of value, you can't do better than the Village Inn. It's a European-style bed and breakfast built in 1928. Each room is uniquely decorated and comes with a fully-equipped kitchen. The Village Inn is a colorful Spanish Mission-style building located two blocks off the main street in Coronado. Prices are very affordable and they come with continental breakfast.

Marriot Coronado Island

On the other side of the spectrum is the Marriot in Coronado. A 16-acre luxury resort landscaped with flamingos that greet you at the entrance, the Marriot Hotel has stunning views of downtown San Diego and even its own water taxi that takes guests across the bay and back.

Coronado Victorian House Bed and Breakfast

This hotel is actually a restored 100-year-old Victorian house. It's an incredibly popular bed and breakfast where the owner offers free dance classes. It's away from the main street in Coronado, so you can enjoy a more quiet setting.

Glorietta Bay Inn

The Glorietta Bay Inn is actually two different hotels. One is the elegant mansion built in 1908, which has luxurious rooms that are sure to please any guest. Especially stunning are the Spreckles Suite and the Penthouse. The other hotel is the adjacent contemporary inn, which has more affordable rooms that still offer great value. There is also free Wi-Fi included.

Hotel del Coronado

Known as "The Del" to locals, Hotel del Coronado is a beautiful beachfront luxury hotel that has a rich cultural history. The hotel opened in 1888 and was at the time the largest resort hotel in the world and the first to use electrical lighting. Built in the American style known as the Wooden Victorian beach resort, Hotel del Coronado has hosted a long line of presidents, royalty and A-list celebrities throughout the decades, including the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Charlie Chaplin. In 1997, Hotel del Coronado was designated as a National Historic Landmark, and USA Today has named it one of the top 10 resorts in the world.

Choosing a Hotel for Accommodation

Most of the tourists that come from different places of the world frequently prefer hotels over other types of hotels while visiting India. There are many hotels in city which are suitable choice for travelers who opt for luxurious accommodation. Tourists will be enthralled to get an oasis of hospitality from trained and courteous staffs that are ready to provide utmost service and sophisticated accommodation at its best, making it prefect choice for both leisure as well as business travelers. Hotels are located mostly in the heart of the city and operate 24 x 7, throughout the year and provide lavish accommodation to suit the needs and preferences of the tourist, keeping in mind the budget travelers. Besides exceptionally comfortable rooms, hotels offer special packages and discounts on room tariffs from time to time that make it even more exciting for the frequent travelers.

These boutique hotels are spacious hotels, equipped with all the amenities. Most of Boutique hotels provide superb lodging and accommodations with fine dining restaurants inside the complex. The visitors will definitely get bowled over by the charm and distinctiveness of this city. The hotels are considered to be among the best hotels in the capital that offer a peek of the wonderful getaways of New Delhi in the best possible way.Many hotel offers an extraordinary experience for vacation. These hotels offer the best of services and personalized attention to their guests, making it the most preferred choice of numerous vacationers. Most of these boutique hotels have their own websites and offer the opportunity to get complete information of the facilities and amenities available and acquiring the best deals while booking the rooms online in advance from any corner of the globe.

The hotels are classified as boutique in significance to their world class service, idyllic settings and spacious room size. Other special features of these hotels comprise the individual style and splendid attributes. The uniqueness in the designs, built with the use of natural and local supplies is another interesting characteristic of these boutique hotels. Most of these hotels have been structured using classical designs, cleverly custom made and decorated with silks and handmade upholstery and carpets, embellished with vibrant colored stones and balmy woods for walls and flooring's. These are some of the finest characters that are hardly found in other type of hotels.

Many cities in the recent years has undergone major growth in the hospitality sector and due to increasingly upsurge in the tourism industry it has helped in alluring more tourists from different corners of the planet. Thus, there has been boom is the hotel industry as well and in the next few years more new hotels are expected to come up. Not more than a decade ago, New Delhi had enough hotels to accommodate the continuous arrival of business travelers and delegates from around the globe, leaving the leisure tourists. The peak season usually starts from October and lasts till March and during this time it is difficult to get accommodations at good and cheap boutique hotels unless booked in advance.

Boutique Hotels in Salt Lake City

Hotel accommodations are likeable only when the staff of the hotel manages to provide excellent service along with grand amenities. The point to travel is not only to get away from home but to find entertainment in a completely stranger city. No traveler would like to waste their precious time and money on inferior quality hotels. That is why guides and directories are made by various travel sites. The main purpose to find a hotel that matches your taste and preference. Otherwise a vacation spent resenting low-standard service and a terrible amenity is a vacation gone to waste.

A hotel that is most certainly likely to win your heart is Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel. It is situated in downtown area of Salt Lake City. After undergoing an intensive makeover comprising of 14 million dollars, the transformation received by the hotel is completely breath-taking. Book yourself a room in the spacious 362 options provided. Along with that 30 suites are available for all guests. Make your pick and enjoy your stay. LCD flat screen TV's and ergonomic chairs along with high speed internet access is also provided. The lights of the city and buzzing of the entertainment are enjoyed by all guests. Picturesque mountains and snow-covered hills surround the hotel. It is indeed like entering heaven.

Travelodge Hotel is a small hotel consisting of two stories. It has both interior and exterior Rooms inputs for all visitors. Motel with a great price-like hotel offers excellent accommodation for those who can not afford to throw money around wastefully. Coffee Makers in all rooms are decorated in white and blue. The restaurants offer the cuisine of the American road at affordable prices for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. With but very nice and comfort necessary to provide various basic services necessarytraveling. It is only a block away from Temple Square and Crossroads Plaza. If you would like to explore the district without parking trouble, this hotel is the place to be.

Located approximately only seven miles away from the Temple Square and two miles away from the Salt Lake City International Airport, Fairfield Inn is a nice and quiet hotel for those who want a get-away from the ruckus of the city. It is six miles away from the Clark Planetarium and Pioneer Museum. With the Lagoon Amusement Park nearby, you can even step out and enjoy the amusement offered by the city. The best amenities include a fitness center, whirlpool, indoor swimming pool along with Perkins Café. Coffee, snacks, newspaper, magazines and other accessories are provided. Air conditioning is present within all rooms of the hotel. Cable TV and internet access is available.

Stratford Hotel is a quiet and peaceful hotel located in the north of Salt Lake City. It offers placid and silent get-away from the cacophony of the city. Well-sized rooms and a nice lobby are present. Guests always give their nod of approval when the peace and tranquility of the hotel is concerned. If you are in the mood to kick your shoes off, rest your head on a soft pillow and close your eyes for some relaxing slumber then Stratford Hotel is the place you ought to be. With simple amenities like broadband internet, complimentary breakfast, a small fitness center and front-desk service, this hotel manages to provide its guests simple and modest accommodation. Easy on the budget and comforting to the eyes: That is what Stratford Hotel is.

Reston Hotel offers you the best amenities you could ask for. It is ideally located in the center of Salt Lake City. It offers a sparkling swimming pool, hot tubs and cable TV to all guests. You can leave your bags in the safety of the hotel and spend the entire day sight-seeing Salt Lake City without a worry in the world. Come back to the hotel and the staff will greet with a warm hello and delicious food. You can even make free local calls to loved ones.

Khao San Road, Bangkok Hostel Reviews

Hostels in Khao San road for budget travelers and backpackers is a dream come true for exploring Bangkok. There are many budget hostels as well as budget accommodations that border as a full service hotels today. Finding the right one can make a dream vacation of a lifetime or just a plain old horrible memory.

Khao San road is situated near the historical districts in Bangkok. It borders the meandering waters of the Chao Phraya River. The royal Grand Palace and the peaceful majestic grounds of Wat Po are within walking distance as well as Thailand's national museums and other cultural and educational institutions.

For many travelers who wish to explore Bangkok's historical and cultural sights on a budget, making Khao San road as your base is ideal. Hostels are dotted all over Bangkok but staying in a hostel in Khao San road will ensure you're near a cheap and filling authentic Thai meal served al fresco at arms reach.

It's not uncommon to live off in Khao San road on just 150 Baht ($5 USD) per day on 3 square meals.

Hostels in Khao San road can run as little as 300 Baht ($10 USD) per night and some hostels include a simple breakfast with the rates too.

Charoendee Hostel for example cost 250 Baht with coffee, tea and toast for breakfast. They even include free wi-fi for all you Internet junkies who who can't wait to check emails.

And there's the Chada Hostel with 350 rooms baht, the world has its own bathroom, is the truest, the luxury of living in backpackers hostel. Although no breakfast though. It is a shame for all, so you can land a nice outdoor Pad Thai for 25 baht.

Finally we have the Shambara Boutique Hostel. This is a unique old house with old world charm of heavy traffic count on the street noise and sometimes the chaos of Bangkok 's. It ispeaceful settings and homey feel will leave you feeling homesick when you checkout. A room at the Shambara will set you back around 350 Baht including a simple breakfast.

Hostels in Khao San road are one of the true best values in Bangkok and a great area to explore other parts of this exotic and fascinating city. Plus it doesn't hurt that staying in Khao San road will leave you with enough money in your pocket once you return home.