Madison LES Hotel

From the street, the Comfort Inn Near the Financial District looks like most nondescript Manhattan buildings. Inside, a few handsome black leather couches adorn the lobby, and a couple of funky wall panels and abstract pieces add pops of color to the black, white, and beige color scheme. The modern decor continues throughout the hotel, with sleek high back black chairs in the small business center, and mahogany-hued tables in the breakfast room. Given it's location and simple common areas, socializing isn't big on the agenda here -- there's no bar or anything like that. Instead, this is a simple and modern alternative for those looking to stay in an area of the city with a more locals-only vibe, or for those wanting to be near Chinatown and city government offices. The rooftop terrace with a spectacular view of New York City is open to guests as well, but guests should note there are no tables or chairs for lounging and socializing. Leisure travelers make up the bulk of guests here, including families and couples. 

For those familiar with Manhattan, Comfort Inn Near Financial District is located on the edge of Chinatown, at a fairly substantial remove from the Financial District (despite its name). This is a vibrant part of town, with an entrenched ethnic community (read: amazing foodie opportunities); it's also a well-established hipster hangout zone. The hotel sits just next to the Manhattan Bridge, meaning noise from traffic and trains is inevitable. The area may appear gritty to those not familiar with NYC, but is actually quite safe. There are tons of hot little eateries, cafes, and bars all around, including perennially popular Dimes on Canal Street (a five-minute walk from the hotel) as well as the storefronts along Essex Street north of Canal Street. City Hall and the bulk of the city's government offices are a 15-minute walk from the hotel, though it will take well at least 20 minutes to reach the heart of the Financial District on foot (10 minutes in a cab). The Brooklyn Bridge is a 15-minute walk from the hotel as well. The East Broadway subway station on the F line is a five-minute walk from the hotel, making it easy to reach Times Square or Central Park (25 minutes by subway). Budget up to an hour to reach JFK, Laguardia, or Newark Airports by taxi (at least 90 minutes by subway or train).  

Across all categories rooms have a simple, modern charm. Colors are sober, but bright, with deep blues and golden yellows offsetting dark browns and beiges. The patterned carpeting has an Art Nouveau-inspired pattern to it, giving this humble budget hotel just a dash more class than much of its competition. Rooms range in sizes, but typical of New York City, most are compact. Still, they have retro leather seating in red or black, and large desks. Beds range from twins and doubles to queens, and all have attractive headboards. Beds are firm, with beige and white bedding, plenty of pillows, and personal reading lights. All rooms have limited storage space, with most offering a small, open-faced wardrobe with hangers and shelves. Some of the rooms on higher floors have views of the city, though with the Manhattan Bridge next door, noise from traffic and trains is inevitable in some rooms. All rooms include air-conditioning, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are likewise modern, with white tile standing showers and granite countertops -- some have windows for a bit of natural light. Hairdryers, toiletries, and plenty of towels are provided.

The Comfort Inn near the Financial District may be small, but it has a good number of features to keep everyone happy. A fitness center is located in the basement of the hotel. It has a handful of modern cardio machines, a flat-screen TV, and a few weights. Adjacent to the fitness center is a meeting room where a free continental breakfast is served in the morning. Guests can expect a breakfast of cereal, pastries, coffee, and a few hot dishes. The room can be reserved through the front desk for conferences and meetings. There are a few vending machines in the meeting room with snacks and drinks available to guests throughout the day. A small business center with two computers, printer, and ATM is situated next to the lobby on offer for guests. The rooftop terrace has nice city views, but there aren’t any tables or chairs for hanging out. Street parking is available surrounding the hotel. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.