What does "downtown" mean in NYC to you? To me, it means south of the numbered streets, e.g. near Wall Street. To others, it means anywhere in Manhattan. Regardless, consider staying at a chain hotel: Starwood, Hilton, Marriott. Embassy Suites might be good -- it's a Hilton property, it has free breakfast, workout room, and more living space. Marriott & Hilton -- if you can push for Gold tier -- gets you lounge access and/or free breakfast.

Are you planning to fly back and forth often? If so, contact CO and see if you can comp status. As they have the most non-stops from IAH to EWR & LGA, you'll have a good combination between status, miles, and easier travels.

Charge as much as you can on a points-earning card. The Chase CO Visa is good only if you hook up with CO. A Starwood card is good if you hook up with that chain. As is the HHonors AMEX & MC. Otherwise, consider something with flexibility, i.e. AMEX Membership Rewards.

All IMHO

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On the road, In the air,
I enjoy travel, From here to there.