N.Y. Hotels Give Travelers The Most Bang For Their Buck

<B>N.Y. Hotels Give Travelers The Most Bang For Their Buck</B>

By Robert Selwitz

Finding a bargain room rate in New York always has been difficult, but in these days of slimmed-down budgets and travel buyers holding tightly to their purse strings, travelers more than ever are being compelled to find lodging in less-costly accommodations.

To fill the bill, the seven-property Empire Hotel Group is one local group that consistently appeals to hunters of moderate bargains. Based in areas that are nearby, or have easy access to, prime business districts, Empire's rooms usually price out at least $100 less per night than conventional, dead-center, major brand sites.

For example, the 250-room Lucerne features rack rates that often fall below $200. In exchange, guests get marble bathrooms, coffeemakers, complimentary breakfast and a fitness center.

Another good value is the Belvedere, located just steps from the theater district, Times Square and Rockefeller Center, and less than a 10-minute walk from Madison Avenue's office towers. The property features 400 rooms, each with a refrigerator, microwave and coffeemaker. Rack rates range from $140 to $300.

Bargains also abound at Travel Inn. Three blocks west of the revitalized and sanitized Times Square, Travel Inn offers 160 rooms, free indoor parking, an outside swimming pool and a 1,500-sq.-ft. meeting/function room. Travel Inn boasts another prime asset: It's the closest quality hotel--just a four-block walk--to the Javits Convention Center. Rack rates are $125 to $200 for a double.

Then there is the Hotel Newton, on Broadway at 94th Street. It features 110 oversize guest rooms with private baths, and is located steps from express or local stops on the subway. Above ground, the Newton is a reasonable walk away from Central Park and the Museum of Natural History. Rack rates are $85 to $160.

Closer to midtown lies the Americana, with rack rates from $75 to $95. Located on West 38th Street, the Americana offers 50 rooms quite close to Macy's, Times Square and the theater district.

Empire also runs the extended stay, newly refurbished Hotel Riverside, which now boasts 120 completely renovated rooms. Rack rates range from $1,600 to $2,400 per month.

Somewhat pricier is another Empire entry, the 20-room Carnegie Hotel on 58th Street. Each room features two queen-size beds, a 25-inch stereo color/cable TV and full kitchenette. The property, located near Carnegie Hall and the Broadway theater district, offers rack rates that hover around $249.