Ughh...never have I had to pay so much for a 4* in NYC as this week. I used all the bidding techniques starting two weeks ago, so I was clearly cutting it a bit tight. All to no avail. I tried every trick in the travel book I know (PRICELINE, HOTWIRE, hotels, lastminute, Orbitz, Expedia, my AmEx rep), including a possible discounted rate at the new Kimpton Eventi which had an opening rate of $339/night, but was sold out. And, it's further south than I ideally wanted to be. Not sure what's going on, but every hotel is maxing out their rates for this week....2* - 4*. I have to be in NYC for the launch of a friends technology company, and some business meetings, so not being in NYC wasn't an option, and I wasn't willing to commute from across the river. I used the PRICELINE links (PRICELINE) for this board, so hope that helps. One great benefit is that at least I'm in mid-town and close to all my meetings. Still, saved $160 off the website rate, so that's a positive. Thanks NYC, I guess it's my turn to help out the local economy and to make up for that $105/night at the Grand Hyatt back in January :-). Thereuare - hope to see you at the event. - Seattle