Not all of us are born with a love for New York City. Sure, I’d seen the city in a thousand movies (who hasn’t?) but, as for going there myself, I never had an interest. After all, what does a mountain girl like me need with a noisy city that never sleeps?

Then someone told me about the discount shops where you can pick up designer wear for department store prices and about the affordable ethnic restaurants that can be found on almost every street.

As a travel junkie who is also a bargain hunter, New York City finally had my interest. I booked my first trip – and I’ve been a fan ever since.

There are many reasons to visit New York City, from top Broadway productions to historic American destinations like Ellis Island. But a surprising fact is that New York City is an affordable destination. You just have to do a bit of planning.

Top of the Rock is one of the many attractions that can be seen with the New York City Explorer Pass.

First things first: hotels can cost a fortune so it’s important to do your homework. It takes a little digging, but you can find nice, economical hotels in Manhattan. 

Since my two teenage daughters and I were on a quick four-day trip, we wanted to be near Times Square, right in the thick of it all. We found two hotels that fit the bill.

The Hotel at Times Square (59 West 46th Street) is one of five properties belonging to Apple Core Hotels. All five budget properties are centrally located in midtown Manhattan.

Though priced in line with a Comfort or Days Inn, The Hotel at Times Square felt more like an upscale boutique hotel with modern design and well-appointed rooms. Best of all, the hotel provided a complimentary daily breakfast, which saved on our dining costs.

Though a bit more expensive and a lot more eccentric, The Pod Hotel is another economical choice. Conveniently located in Midtown on E 51st Street, the hotel is within walking distance of Times Square, Rockefeller Plaza and many other attractions.

Designed for the fashionable yet budget-conscious traveler, The Pod Hotel has trendy accommodations equipped with iPod docking stations, LCD TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Our room also had a hanging Lucite globe swing chair, a unique rocking chair, beanbags and pod poufs, and Kool-Aid colored JM Rizzi original murals.

Powered by Trip.com

If you’re staying in Manhattan, it’s easy to get around. Don’t even think about renting a car. Parking and driving are a nightmare and not worth the hassle. Instead, buy an unlimited MetroCard for $8.25/day.

The transportation system is excellent and easy to use. City taxis are also quite affordable. On the few times we used taxis, our fare was rarely more than US $10 to $15.

New York City is a walking town and sometimes the best – and quickest – way to get around is by foot. Plus, it’s the best way to see this vibrant, bustling city up close. 

For many (like me), shopping is the main draw to New York City. Yes, I live in a good-sized city in the west, but nothing compares to the vast array of shopping opportunities in the Big Apple. I can find clothes here that I’d never find back home – and for good prices, too!

Best of all, New York City has no tax on clothing and footwear items under $110. (Above that, the tax is 8.875 percent.) That saves a lot of cash!