PRICE:
Frommer's Very Highly Recommended

In a lovely brownstone on a landmark block in the heart of Chelsea, this small hotel is utterly charming and a terrific value -- arguably the best in the city for budget-minded travelers. Impeccable renovations have restored original woodwork to mint condition. The beds are the finest and best outfitted I've seen in this price category.

The only place with a similar grown-up sensibility for the same money is Greenwich Village's Larchmont Hotel, but there, all bathroom facilities are shared; at Chelsea Lodge, each room has its own sink and in-room shower stall, so you only have to share a cute toilet room with your neighbors. I won't kid you -- rooms are petite, the open closets are small, and beds are full-size (queens wouldn't cut it). But considering the stylishness, the amenities, and the great neighborhood, you'd be hard-pressed to do better for the money. Best for couples rather than shares. Tip: Try to book no. 2A, which is bigger than most, or one of the first-floor rooms, whose high ceilings make them feel more spacious.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's New York City 2008, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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