Hotel Richland New York

The Howard Johnson SoHo is a nondescript, narrow building in the heart of Chinatown on bustling Allen Street. Blink and you'll miss the tall, black building as it blends into the rest of its surroundings. But once you step through the doors, it becomes apparent that this is not just any chain hotel. The staff has taken some pains to make the lobby attractive, even if it's a tad kitschy. Marilyn Monroe's and Audrey Hepburn's images are embossed on lobby chairs, and a neon color scheme provides a vibrant welcome to the property. The vibe is youthful and fun, making the property a popular choice among college students and couples from around the world. European travelers are of particular abundance.While the vibe borders on psychedelic downstairs -- the elevator even has a light show -- the rest of the hotel feels a bit boring. Room decor is bland, in deep brown and black tones. Still, for a neat and tidy stay in the Lower East Side, this is definitely a solid option, though its worth checking rates at other chain hotels in the area such as the Wyndham Garden Chinatown or the Holiday Inn NYC - Lower East Side.

The Howard Johnson SoHo -- which would be better named the Howard Johnson Lower East Side or Howard Johnson Chinatown -- is situated between a multitude of very authentic Chinese stores, markets, and restaurants on Allen Street. Lined with old tenement buildings, Chinatown -- and its ever-shrinking neighbor, Little Italy -- offers cultural charm by way of instant immersion. Most restaurants and shops sell imported goods and the great majority of signs and storefronts advertise in Chinese. A few blocks away, in the Lower East Side, there's a hip bar scene and some of the nightlife does trickle down into Chinatown, which has a handful of swanky, but discrete, bars and lounges.But while it's fun to visit, staying in Chinatown can be a bit unpleasant -- constant crowds and traffic, not to mention lots of garbage, can bring down a stay.

Rooms are clean and comfortable, if a bit boring at the Howard Johnson SoHo. Decor is bland, and a tad dark for spaces that often lack natural light. The hotel does provide solid in-room amenities, including large flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and coffeemakers.The lack of natural light is due to the fact that, because the building is so narrow, windows are most often found in the bathrooms. Often panoramic, these windows can provide stunning views of the East River, Manhattan Bridge, and Brooklyn Bridge -- and provide a bit of exhibitionism to a more subdued property. Guests preferring privacy can lower blinds to block out any prying eyes while they shower.

The amenities at the Howard Johnson SoHo aren't numerous: There is no full-service restaurant, fitness or business center. But the hotel does provide its brand staples. There is a free continental breakfast served daily, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. The staff is also willing to assist with cabs, reservations, and directions. There is also a great rooftop space that offers sweeping views of the length of Manhattan, open seasonally.