Thanks much for all the advice. It is very helpful. And I am aware that, thanks to all the tips at this forum, I got a good rate. I go to NYC 2 to 3 times a year and generally the standard for accomodations in NYC is low compared to the other major U.S. cities. I just expect a clean, reasonably-sized room -- and this takes some doing in NYC. So hopefully with all the tips you gave me I will have a pleasant stay. Thanks again.