Basic plan: After my final exams, go to NYC on Friday with a friend and relax for 2 days. Then leave from JFK to go to the Manila on Sunday. (Haven't been to NYC in over 12 years.)

Main motivation: Leave from JFK instead of SYR -- save $350 on airline ticket.

1. LODGING: Staying in the Marriott Financial District for $125 / night. Is this is a good area to stay (as opposed to hotels in NJ)? (Midtown is SO expensive!) Is it relatively safe to take the subway to/from midtown?

2. TRANSPORTATION to NYC: I plan on taking a bus from Ithaca, NY to Port Authority. How should I go from Port Authority to the financial district (shuttle service vs. taxi vs. subway)? Since I'll be carrying a large suitcase and roller-bag handcarry, I'm more concerned about safety rather cost.

3. TRANSPORTATION to JFK: How long does it take to get to JFK from Manhattan on a Sunday morning (shuttle bus vs. sedan service)? From what I've been on the web, the difference is around $40. I'm more concerned about travel time and convenience.

4. TOURIST TRAPS: Any recommendations? Being a college student, I'm studying too much that I don't get any Christmas spirit. Any place/area to visit to get the Christmas spirit? Was also thinking of going to skating rink near Rockefeller center. Any other suggestions?

Thanks for your input.

- Pat