The Arabian Nights room at the Kew Motor Inn, New York
At Motella we like to share our pithy views and give measured advice on a wide range of issues relating to the motel industry - OK, we admit that sometimes we go off-task!Every now and again we like to take a walk on the dark side and tackle those...er... broader industry issues.
....So, finally we can answer that perennial question: Where can you go for a cheap ’n’ discreet shag—no reservations necessary in New York City!?!
We have fully investigated this probing question and have listed our our suggested accommodation options below. Click on the website links to fully appreciate these fine and gritty establishments.
The Liberty Inn
Sixty dollars for two hours or $70 for three buys you a room with adjustable mood lighting and strategically placed mirrors. For $15 more, upgrade to one of the romantic-interlude rooms; you’ll score a Jacuzzi and a 42-inch plasma-screen TV, which may come in handy thanks to its six free porn stations. We particularly like that the room shots on their website includes pictures of the guest room ceilings! 51 Tenth Ave between 13th and 14th Sts (212-741-2333, libertyinnnyc.com)
St. Marks Hotel
It’s competitively priced at $60 for two hours, but if you or your partner(s) have a hard time getting off quickly, you may want to head elsewhere: Each additional hour costs $30. The plus: The hotel accepts only cash and traveler’s checks, so your name can’t be traced. Rooms include showers and TVs with porn. 2 St. Marks Pl at Third Ave (212-674-0100, stmarkshotel.net)
La Semana
For a spa-like sexperience, snag one of the suites with a Jacuzzi and steam room (three hours for $100). If you’re on a budget, opt for a room with a Jacuzzi only (three hours for $85), or a standard room ($73 for three hours). Showing identification is negotiable, but you must be over 18. 25 W 24th St between Broadway and Sixth Ave (212-255-5944, lasemanahotelnyc.com)
Kew Motor Inn
Trek to Queens—the motel is 15 minutes from the Kew Gardens–Union Tpke stop on the E or F train—and get more bang for your buck (literally). Live out your fantasies in one of the nine theme rooms, including Arabian Nights and Oriental Delight (weekdays $63 and weekends $71 for three hours). Or just order room service in one of the standard rooms (weekends $55 and weekdays $51 for three hours). No ID needed if you pay with cash. 139-01 Grand Central Pkwy at Charter Rd, Kew Gardens Hills, Queens (718-969-3000, kewmotorinn.com)
Days Inn, Brooklyn
This brand-name motel is just three blocks from the 36th Street subway station via the D, M, N or R. The staff checks IDs, but makes no record of them and accepts cash or credit cards, but not checks. Rooms run $60 for three hours on weekends, $50 for three hours on weekdays and $15 more for a Jacuzzi. Extend your stay ($99/night) and receive a complimentary breakfast before your walk of shame. 437 39th St between Fourth and Fifth Aves, Sunset Park, Brooklyn (718-853-4141) daysinn.com
