NYC on a budget!

BD Hotel Group has started a chain of POD Hotels in the City.  The first was Pod51 on 51st Avenue between 1st and 2nd Avenues.  The second is Pod39 on 39th Avenue between Lexington and 34d - just 3 blocks from Grand Central.  These stylishly appointed rooms are smaller but designed to maximize the space.  Climate controlled rooms feature flat screen tvs and free wi-fi.  Pod 39 has a roof top bar with midtown views, a lounge with a fire place, couches and ping pong tables and a lobby restaurant.  Rooms include single beds, bunk beds, double and queens.  Rates range from $85 to $169 for a bunk bed room, $105 to $279   for a double and queens based on season rates.  http://www.thepodhotel.com

A sister property, The Jane, is located in the West Village at Jane Street & West Street.  Once a hotel for sailors, most of the rooms are 50 square feet like a ship's cabin with rates from $99 to $125 with a shared bath.  There are also Captains Cabins with a Queen bed and private bath for $250.   Cafe and bar in this historic property in a great neighborhood.  http://www.thejanenyc.com/

Visit the Holiday Markets

Do you enjoy the European Style Holiday Markets?  There are at least two opening this weekend for a taste of Europe in New York City, one already open and another that opens later in November!  

The first to open is Holiday Shops at Bryant Park. Over 100 boutique style shops nestled through the park near the ice skating rink.  This one is open until January 6th.  Hours are 11 - 8 Monday to Friday, 10 - 9 Saturday and 10 - 6 on Sunday. 

Opening this weekend is Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal.  76 vendors with a unique variety of gifts...many hand crafted in the New York City area.  Last year my sister in law and I bought several gifts here.  Everything from artwork, home decor, bath products, handbags, clothing, Christmas ornaments, jewelry, and men's and children's items.  Open 10-8 Monday through Saturday.  11 to 7 pm on Sunday.  Closed on Thanksgiving Day.   

Also Union Square, at the intersection of Park Avenue South, Broadway, 14th Avenue South and Union Square offers more of a global market and features more food and beverage items to enjoy while shopping.  This one is open 11 - 8 Monday to Friday, 10 - 8 Saturday and 11 - 7 on Sundays.  Also closed Thanksgiving Day.

The last one to open is the Columbus Circle Market at Central Park and Columbus Circle.  Reflecting the neighborhood, this market is a little more elegant featuring mother/daughter apparel, artisan truffles, handmade puzzles and food and beverage vendors.  Open Monday to Saturday 10 - 8, Sunday 11 - 7, and 10-4 on December 24th.