Great — here are 10 hotels in New York City that work especially well for independent (solo or independent-style) travellers, with why each one is a good fit and a reliable source for more details.

• Pod 51 (Midtown East) — ultra-budget, compact “pod” rooms, rooftop deck and friendly communal vibe that’s ideal if you’re out exploring most of the day and want to save on lodging. (oyster.com)

• citizenM New York Bowery (Bowery/LES) — tech-forward, small-but-comfortable rooms, large “living room” coworking/social spaces and a rooftop bar — great for solo travellers who want low-fuss check-in and lively common areas. (thepointsguy.com)

• Freehand New York (Gramercy/Flatiron) — boutique, design-forward property with bunk/communal room options, multiple bars/restaurants and a buzzy lobby — good if you want to meet other travellers without staying in a hostel. (oyster.com)

• The Jane (Greenwich Village) — historic, very small “cabin” rooms (and free bike rentals) — unique, inexpensive and well-suited to independent travellers who prioritise location and character over space. (visitnyc.com)

• Moxy NYC Times Square (Midtown/Times Square) — lively, social hotel with rooftop/entertainment spaces, tablet/self check-in style service and wallet-friendly rates for the area. Good if you want a youthful, outgoing scene. (cntraveler.com)

• Arlo NoMad (NoMad) — very compact, efficiently designed rooms plus active rooftop/bar and 24‑hour grab-and-go — well-located for subway lines and exploring downtown on your own. (cntraveler.com)

• Ace Hotel New York (NoMad) — creative, lobby-centric hotel that acts as a social hub (coffee, co‑working vibe, frequent locals) — good if you like an energetic public space to work or meet people. (travel.usnews.com)

• The Ludlow (Lower East Side) — stylish boutique with a popular lobby bar and rooftop terrace — great for independent travellers who want a neighborhood feel and nightlife on the doorstep. (oyster.com)

• The Standard, High Line (Meatpacking District) — modern, scene-y hotel with nightlife and rooftop options; good if you want to be near the High Line, Chelsea Market and Meatpacking nightlife. (Note: tends to be lively/noisy.) (tripadvisor.com)

• YOTEL / micro‑hotel options (Times Square / Hudson Yards area and new micro‑concepts) — tech/self-service, compact “smart” rooms and strong value for short stays — aimed at travellers who want efficient check‑in, automated services and central locations. Also look at new micro‑hotels aimed specifically at single occupancy. (tripadvisor.com)

Quick tips for picking the right one

• Choose by neighbourhood: Midtown/Times Square for first-time sightseeing, Lower Manhattan/SoHo/LES for nightlife and independent cafés, NoMad/Flatiron/Gramercy for a quieter, local-feel base. (visitnyc.com)
• If you want to meet people, pick hotels with lively lobbies, rooftop bars or programmed events (Freehand, Ace, Moxy, citizenM). (oyster.com)
• For safety and convenience, confirm proximity to major subway lines and choose a room with an ensuite bathroom if privacy/comfort is a priority. (oyster.com)

If you want, I can:

• Narrow these to a specific neighbourhood (SoHo, Midtown, LES, Upper West/Upper East) or price range (budget, mid-range, boutique/luxury).
• Check current rates and available dates for any of the properties above.

Which neighbourhood or budget do you prefer?