Patricia, the easiest way to get from JFK into the city is by using the Airtrain. Buy a METRO card with at least $14 on it (roundtrip into and out of Manhattan). Take the Airtrain ($5) to the Sutphin Blvd/Archer Avenue location (it only goes to two places -- Sutphin or Howard Beach). When you get to Sutphin Blvd/Archer Avenue, you will have to get off and board the regular MTA subway ($2). Follow the signs for the "E" train and wait on the platform for an "E" train going in the direction of Manhattan (the sign on the train will most likely say "Manhattan" or "World Trade Center"). Take the "E" train just a very short way to the Kew Gardens/Union Turnpike stop; get off there and wait for an "F" train. If you miss getting off there, you can get off again at the Forest Hills/71 Avenue stop -- again, pick up an "F" train heading into Manhattan (the sign on the train may say "Coney Island"). Take the "F" train into Manhattan and get off at the 57th Street (at 6th Avenue) stop. Your hotel will be two blocks south. If you need more information, visit the MTA web site at http://www.mta.info/nyct/maps/submap.htm. Have fun!
For Patricia