Actually, on foot is the best way to see NYC. But do be careful and don't go to areas that are questionable.
Safe places to walk on foot:
Avenue of the Americas/6th Ave from 3rd St. to 59th St (when you see the beginning of Central Park)
Columbus Circle when you see Time Warner Building
All of 5th Ave from NYU to Museum Row (uptown also on Central Park area)
The Village (but do be careful when venturing towards 7th Avenue South.)
SoHo
Downtown - Financial Area along w/ Ground Zero
Chelsea but stay away from the Projects on 9th Ave.
I'm sure I missed alot but you get my drift
If taking the Bus:
I believe they only take Metro Cards and coins. No bills!
Hotels downtown:- The Financial District
The Millenium Hotel across from Ground Zero
The Embassy Suite (Battery Park City Location)
The Ritz Carlton (Battery Park Location- the tip of downtown)
SoHo Location:
Soho Grand on West Broadway and Canal Street
*that's actually where there's alot of shopping nearby from high end (D&G etc.) to low end shopping (Canal Street where you get fake everything

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Carrme said:
hello!
me and my girlfriends are heading on a shopping trip to NYC baby!
We are taking a train so we'll be on foot around the city.
What hotels are close to downtown... where there's alot of shopping?
sorry if the question is a bit vague i still have alot to learn about the city before we go.
thanks!xoox