New York City on $200 a Night!

I had always wanted to go to New York City. Is it really that hard getting a hotel room? I've had people tell me it is almost impossible! Right before I left Florida, a neighbor told me what she did to get around the availability or should I say non-availability of rooms and also the sky high prices.

She and her husband wanted to do a quiet weekend in the city, in Chelsea, the artist's district. They are both artists and wanted to visit a slew of art galleries and also get a break from their two little kids.

They went to Craigslist.org and looked under apartments and condos for rent. There are many listings available. They ended up finding a nice one bedroom place that was $200 a night. It had clean sheets, a view, was close to everywhere they wanted to go, had internet access and a fully stocked kitchen that they were invited to peruse. Their host also stayed in a nearby friend's apartment and was available to help them plan their iteneraries and restaurant forays.

I know that sounds fairly easy, but for safety's sake, I wouldn't do this if I was traveling on my own. I'd also bring something, like a wedge, to stick under the front door, give family members all the info on where we'd be staying and if I could, get some references from the person offering up his place. Most people are legit, but I could see myself being the one person who didn't make the right choice when it comes to picking some random place. Alternatively, you can try these other methods of finding a place to stay.....some are even free.