Away's Favorite Photos from Travelers in 2012

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8. Waldorf Astoria, New York City, New York
New York City can be intimidating to out-of-towners. But by staying in a historic hotel that's as vital now as when it was built in the 1920s, you can have the ultimate NYC experience, in a safe (physically and emotionally), sophisticated, and very fun environment. The Waldorf Astoria's original building, erected in 1893, was torn down to accommodate the Empire State Building—the present 47-story Art Deco monument opened in 1931. At the time, it was the tallest hotel in the world.

Now sparkling from more than $400 million dollars in renovations over the years, the hotel is a hub of activity; although the painstakingly decorated art deco rooms are lovely, you'll want to have a drink on the Cocktail Terrace, or simply sit in one of the high-domed lobbies and soak in the atmosphere. Every U.S. president since Herbert Hoover has visited the Waldorf while in office, and the lobby pulses with that energy. In addition to guests from all over the world, the Waldorf Astoria is truly a local's hotel, with daily events that attract international politicians, celebrities, and business magnets. Yet the rooms are surprisingly inexpensive considering the location, with off-season specials helping to dip prices to well under $300 a night. Check the hotel's website for specials and packages that often include theater, shopping, and museum discounts.

From The Park Avenue Lobby, it is a short jaunt to many of the city's iconic landmarks—Times Square, the Theater District, Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, Central Park, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the ever-popular American Girl shop. Or catch the subway for a quick trip to Little Italy, SoHo, or the Financial District. There are plenty of pocketbook-friendly restaurants nearby—after dining, stroll the few blocks to Times Square and take in the amazing M & M store.