Let’s be honest—New York City is expensive. Like, “I paid $8 for this latte when I was in New York” expensive. So when I heard about Pod Hotel New York, I was a little skeptical. A cheap, beautiful hotel in the heart of Manhattan? Sounds impossible, right? Well, I’ll tell you what: it’s true.
The truth is, I started staying at Pod Brooklyn a while ago (because Brooklyn is easier to get to than Manhattan these days), and let me tell you, it was kind of an awesome experience. Think: a beautiful, well-appointed room that connects to a coffee shop, and a human-sized workspace. The staff greeted me with a full explanation of the hotel’s amenities. Within minutes, I was checking in and reading about my “pod.”
What Is a Pod Hotel?
If you’re thinking of a tiny, cramped apartment, think again. A pod hotel is a well-designed one. Inspired by Japanese capsule hotels, Pod Hotel New York takes the concept of a tiny house and transforms it into a cozy, homey space.
- My room was small—well, very small—but it had everything I needed:
- A comfortable bed
- A much larger bathroom than I expected
- A desk that folds down
I had a little chatter about the small space the first day. (What if I bumped into a wall while brushing my teeth? Secret: I would have.) But after a day or two, I realized its genius. You’re in New York! What if you were to lock yourself in your room all day? No. You should be exploring the city, eating bagels, and feeling like you’re in a romantic comedy.
The Pod Hotel Experience
One of the best things about Pod Hotel New York? The rooms are all connected. The rooftop bar at Pod Brooklyn is like a specialty chef’s dining area. Imagine sipping a drink while looking out at the Manhattan skyline. (Yes, I took 47 photos for Instagram. Yes, I don’t like it.)
Let’s talk about the human workspace. As a freelance writer, I’m always looking for a comfortable place to work, and the Pod’s lounge is perfect.
- The Wi-Fi is fast
- There’s plenty of space to plug in and charge
- The coffee maker never runs out
What more could you want? Plus, I met a few travelers who were also working during their travels. We bonded over our love of the great avocado toast.
City Highlights
Pod Hotel New York is located in one of the city’s most trendy neighborhoods. I live in Brooklyn, which is the hipster hub of the world. It’s full of bookstores, great value tacos, and cool restaurants.
- Actually, if you go, try the fish taco. It’s really good!
If you’re a Manhattanite, Pod Times Square and Pod 51 are great options.
- Times Square is, well, Times Square—beautiful, hot, and packed with people.
- Pod 51 is in Midtown East, which is a little more laid-back and quiet.
Both are close to subway stations, so getting around is quick.
Why Pod Hotel New York Is Great For… If You’re All Human
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, Pod Hotel New York has something for you.
- The rooms are affordable (by NYC standards, at least).
- The rooms are very nice.
- The feel of the place is just the tip of the iceberg.
Of course, it’s not for everyone. If you’re the type of person who wants a big room with a jacuzzi tub, this might not be the best option for you. But if you’re looking for a clean, quiet place to relax after a day of exploring, you can’t go wrong with Pod.
Pros of Staying There
- Life Saving: Pod Hotel New York is a popular choice, especially during peak travel times. Don’t wait until the last minute!
- Be careful with your directions: The rooms are small, so leave your big bags at home. (Seriously, you won’t need five pairs of shoes for a weekend getaway.)
- Explore the City: You won’t be confined to the tourist hotspots. Some of the best food and experiences are in the city.
- Have fun and share a laugh: Pod Hotel is about community and connection. Talk to your fellow travelers—you might just make a new friend.
Last Step
Staying at Pod Hotel New York was one of the best things about my trip. It was cheap, cute, and comfortable. Yes, the rooms are small, but that’s what makes it so great. It feels like the kind of place you’d find in New York—lots of cute things, lots of character.
So, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple and looking for a way to avoid paying a hefty price tag, try Pod Hotel. You might just fall in love with it—small rooms and all.
I’m Wendy, I live abroad for about 3 years and I have done two long term travels before I relocated. If you want to lead an active life while traveling or living abroad, you came to the right place! On my blog you find practical articles on what it is like to live abroad and tips on awesome travel destinations.