We went to NYC in December 2010. Hotel Pennsylvania was one of the "cheapest" in Manhattan, which means during Christmas time approx. EUR 200 per night :-( Well, not the right time for a budget-friendly stay.
We booked a twin as we hoped that this room is larger than the double room but I think smaller than the twin room is not possible ;-) The room was honestly said rundown. But who spends much time at the room when staying in NYC?! Therefore we didn't mind. For us the location was the most important thing and the location of the hotel is PERFECT! Close to everything!
From the airport you can go by train to Penn station and getting out directly next to the hotel.
The check-in and out was quick, not friendly, but okay. But I have also seen people queuing at the check-in, luckily not us.
After reading all the negative reviews we expected the worst but for us the hotel was really okay, we would stay there again as perfect location is everything!
One recommendation: When you are planning a trip to NYC during Christmas time then try to avoid the weekend! I have never seen such crowds of people before in my life, not even in China! Already before opening there were long queues in front of every shop and it's really hard to move forward on the main streets.
hotel reviews