Hotwire Hotel: 4.5* NYC (MTE) InterContinental Barclay

[Marc Marcus]

I have a last minute trip to NYC scheduled for this coming Saturday and Sunday nights (1/23 - 1/24). I've been reading through the threads and have picked up much useful info on bidding on 3 and 4* properties, but I havent found too much on 5*. Can anyone offer some insight on how much I could expect tp pay for a 5* in any Midtown zone, and what strategy I should use? Also, is there an advance reservation deadline (IE. do I have to book a certain number of days in advance of my stay?) Thanks for your help.

[thereuare]

Welcome to BetterBidding!

There is only one known 5* hotel in NYC and that is the Waldorf Towers. The good news is that it's usually only available last minute... the bad news is that it's not usually available.

HOTWIRE has what appears to be the Westin at $143, the Grand Hyatt at $138, the Inter-Continental Barclay at $145, Le Parker Meridien at $158, and a few others. I think the questions is how much more is the 5* in NYC worth to you over these prices?

Let us know that and we'll suggest a bidding strategy for you to follow.

[Marc Marcus]

Does that mean that if I bid on the 5* in MTE, it is not likely to be accepted, but if it is, it will be at Waldorf Towers? I would be willing to try to get that with a few bids, using the re-bid strategy, as it is the only 5* in NYC. If that doesnt work out, I can always go to Hotwire with your link.

From the Hotwire properties you mentioned, which would be the best suited for my trip -- I am going for leisure with my wife. Location is not a factor (any midtown location is OK). I guess we're just looking for the most upscale property for the price.

Thanks.

[thereuare]

Does that mean that if I bid on the 5* in MTE, it is not likely to be accepted, but if it is, it will be at Waldorf Towers?

It's not that clear-cut, but that's the general jist of things based upon known history. I may be putting a tone on your words that aren't there, but we don't like to make things sound so definitive from the standpoint that hotels are added, removed, upgraded, downgraded, etc all of the time. Each time a new hotel is reported it is 'news' to us, but you thinking is correct based upon nothing 'new' coming up.

I think i could easily be happy at any of the hotels listed above (especially at those prices), each time i was about to choose one i woudl re-think my position and choose another. :) You may want to read the reviews next to each in the PRICELINE HOTEL LIST.

Let us know if we can be of additional help and keep us updated to your progress.

[Marc Marcus]

Please see below list from Hotwire -- I couldnt find this on the Hotwire Hotel List. Any idea what property this might be?

Midtown East (Midtown) - See map

Selected amenities include: Restaurant(s), Pool(s), Fitness Center, Tennis Nearby, Business Center. View complete amenity list and description

[thereuare]

Please take another look on HOTWIRE and let us know the zone and star rating.

Thanks.

[Marc Marcus]

I just booked the InterCon Barclay for this coming Sat. and Sun. for $139/night. I had been posting on the Priceline board, but decided that with this rate, Hotwire was the way to go.

Thanks again for your help.

[thereuare]

Nice deal.

Thank you for letting us know your ultimately decision... glad we could help.