Taxes are normal; surprise fees are the problem
New York hotel stays can include state and city sales tax, hotel occupancy tax and a New York City unit fee. The exact booking page should show the breakdown before you commit.
Destination fees are not the same as tax
A resort, facility or destination fee is a property charge, not a government tax. Some hotels include perks; others make it feel like a mandatory add-on.
Deposits are often temporary holds
Many hotels pre-authorise a card at check-in for incidentals. That hold is different from the room price, but it can affect available card balance during the trip.
Hotel mini reviews
Shortlist these hotels first.
Arlo SoHo
- Best for
- Repeat visitors, downtown food, compact-value stays
- Avoid if
- You need large rooms, family space or daily Midtown sightseeing convenience.
- Nearest subway
- Canal St / Spring St area
- Booking notes
- Look closely at room size and bed setup; compact rooms can be a fair trade for the location.
Hotel Beacon
- Best for
- Families, roomier stays, kitchenette convenience
- Avoid if
- You want nightlife on the doorstep or a design-led luxury hotel.
- Nearest subway
- 72 St nearby
- Booking notes
- Check kitchenette, sofa-bed and bed-type details; these matter more than star rating for families.
Riu Plaza New York Times Square
- Best for
- Broadway, first trips, simple sightseeing logistics
- Avoid if
- You want quiet residential streets or boutique character.
- Nearest subway
- Times Square-42 St / 50 St area
- Booking notes
- Useful for theatre-heavy trips; compare final totals because central hotels can add fees and deposits.
Fast answers
Questions UK travellers ask before booking.
Are New York hotel taxes included on Booking.com?
Booking.com says any additional charges or taxes shown are defined by the property and local tax rules. Always check the price-details section before booking.
What is a New York destination fee?
It is a hotel-level fee, often described as a destination, facility or resort fee. It is separate from government taxes.
Will a New York hotel take a deposit?
Many hotels place a temporary card hold for incidentals. Check your confirmation and the hotel's policy so it does not surprise you at check-in.
Sources and update notes
Last updated: 17 August 2026. Hotel rates, fees, rules and transport details can change.