HotelChatter

This is New York's first Staybridge Suites property, and brings 310 studios to a bustling location near Port Authority, Broadway, the Jacob Javits Convention Center, and everything else you can think of in Midtown. Which is probably why the hotel is being promoted as a "calming oasis". To wit:

From the moment of arrival, guests are welcomed by the soothing natural sounds of waterfalls in the lobby, where a striking gold-tiered column stands at the focal point. A crackling fireplace makes for a tranquil setting in the Great Room for guests to relax and unwind with a cup of coffee and a newspaper. Two additional water treatments coupled with dramatic floor to ceiling windows border the Atrium dining lounge, a peaceful setting for daily breakfast.

That sounds lovely and all—especially if you've just stepped off a bus across the street—but what we really like the sound of here is the convenience and value for money. Guests will get free WiFi (in-room and throughout the hotel), a free hot breakfast buffet daily, free mid-week beer and wine receptions, free laundry facilities, 24-hour business and fitness centers, in-room kitchens, and an on-premises 24-hour convenience store, Bridge Mart—stocked with drinks, snacks, sundries, and easy-to-prepare meals.

At the opening rate (available until June 30), this almost sounds like a better deal than our own NYC apartment. Bonus points for Staybridge being pet-friendly, too.

One note: the website is still saying "opening April 1st" but a rep assures us that May 1st is the first date you can make reservations, which was confirmed by our attempts via the online reservation system. And, yes, there are still $189 a night rooms available.