First of all, the Times Square West Hostel is exactly just that: a hostel. If you've never stayed in a hostel before, this hostel is a great place for your first hostel experience. I have stayed in quite a few hostels around the world and this hostel is by far and away one of the best hostels that I've stayed the night. The owners are terrific. You get fresh towels everyday (not a guarantee at every hostel) and there's free internet. It is also within walking distance to Times Square and the theater district. There are some great (albeit a little expensive) restaurants only a block away.

The price simply cannot be beat for the location. Talking with some of the other hostel dwellers, they wish that the hostel had a little bit more fun things to do within the hostel. You're in New York City though! You're not supposed to be spending time in the hotel! There is always something to do outside of the hostel!

The hostel also has air conditioning (not all hostels... more