What more can you say about New York? Plenty!

I get over to New York at least twice a year and the last few times I’ve gone for the self-catering option. Otherwise I’d have to check myself in as excess baggage for the extra weight with all the eating I do while there.

As much as I love New York dining, and I do, I find a hotel with a kitchenette the best thing for a coffee, bagel and a read of the New York Times for breakfast.

And the best hotels both myself and my friends have found for such affordable luxury are The Excelsior Hotel just off Central Park or the Affinia in Midtown Manhattan.

However for some budget quirky options with real character, I’m going to check out the new Loft Hostel, Brooklyn and then do a few nights at the Harlem Flophouse that my friends who stayed there recently tell me is a real NY experience not to be missed.