RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK CENTRAL PARK (*****L): Housed within a striking 33-story 1930s building designed by Emery Roth, the former legendary St. Moritz Hotel shows a perfect definition of what “ritzy” actually means. An authentic palace hotel, the Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park opened in 2002, becoming a top end address in Manhattan. The Plaza, Sherry Netherland and Pierre are located a stone's throw, and the fierce competition with those brilliant properties acts in favour of the guest, welcomed like a nabob and treated like a king. A superabundance of anticipating staff expected us from the door till the cosy lobby, for a courteous and express check-in. We felt like in good hands from the very first minute of our stay, and the smart but not stiff reception and room staff, concierge and butlers, educated in the best international hotel management schools, ranks atop the best in the Americas.

The 259 guest rooms, including 47 suites (plus 12 residences), are all top-notch. The size and orientation make all the difference. Those visiting NY with their family might prefer the 790 till 1,980 square feet suites; the 425 – 450 square feet rooms are ideal for individual travellers. What sounds important, moreover if you are on a first or romantic stay in the Big Apple, is to book in a park-view room or suite. We stayed in one of them, on a superior floor, and the panorama on the  843 acres Central Park was well worth our long transatlantic flight. The park is amazing in all seasons, and a tabletop telescope (completed with birding books!) had been installed in our Deluxe Parkview Room to help us enjoy a better view. The Horse Drawn Carriages stood just beside our windows, and the concierge invited us to join the noontime feeding of the horses (a ritual for families in this children-friendly hotel).

Even more opulent than the top luxurious Ritz Carlton Istanbul where we stayed recently, the rooms are very much in the  European style: classy and glamorous, furnished in shades of celadon, taupe and pale rose, they all feature plush upholsteries, brocade drapes, richly patterned carpets, and the most comfortable feather king-size beds ever experienced in the US (with a choice of seven types of pillows). We particularly liked the relaxing subdued lightening, the palatial marble bathrooms with terry & waffle bathrobes and top quality Ritz Carlton bath amenities.

Our bonus was a privileged access to the Club Lounge. This top exclusive retreat -with an access limited to 50 guests maximum- makes all the difference for spoiled travellers like us, looking for a special, very dedicated treatment. We would come back to the Ritz Carlton, just for experiencing again the jet-set ambience of the lounge, with guests from around the world (lots of Asian people: follow them...  they always stay in the best hotels) relaxing and chatting, surfing Internet complimentary (the hotel still do charge in the rooms...), and enjoying the continuous culinary delights served from breakfast time until late evening. The refill was permanent, the quality of the dishes excellent, and the carefully selected wine imported from the best American and Italian vineyards. The Ritz Carlton hotels are reputed for having the best lounges; we could see in New York that this was all but a legend. There is a concierge attached to the Club Lounge: he is actually efficient in assisting the guest for meetings, tours, and gladly printed our travel documents before we checked out. Such a perfection certainly helped the hotel to gain its accolades: including the prestigious AAA Five Diamonds and the Forbes Five Star 2011.

The chic and pricey (the Caviar Luxury 2.5 hours treatment costs $475 USD...) La Prairie at The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a complete range of services for body, mind and spirit. Visited by hotel guests and top-tier New Yorkers alike, it imports in Manhattan the Swiss La Prairie wellness and beauty therapies in a soothing, classy environment. It is regarded as one of the most prestigious SPA in New York, much frequented by the Upper East/West side high-society who also like to haunt day and night the intimate, oak-panelled, warm and ultra-chic “Star Lounge” bar. We loved the old-world glamour atmosphere, dress-to-kill guests distinguished whispers, and this magic “je ne sais quoi” characterizing palace hotels bars around the world. This place is unique, and well worth a visit just for a cocktail by legendary bartender Norman Bukofzer, even if you are not a resident in the Ritz Carlton.

We didn't visit the Contour restaurant, which was being refurbished during our stay; it will certainly match the hotel top quality. Note that Michelin starred Jean-Georges, Café Boulud and Daniel are located a short and pleasant walk from the Ritz Carlton.

Some special offers, starting from $595 USD per night/room, can make this hotel surprisingly affordable.

One of the most exclusive and most warmly recommended addresses in Manhattan.

RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK CENTRAL PARK: 50 Central Park South, New York, New York 10019
PHONE:  +1 212 308 9100    FACSIMILE: +1 212 207 8831
E-MAIL: nyccp.leads@ritzcarlton.com

 

THE SHERRY NETHERLAND (*****L): This iconic hotel has got something magic: it transforms the traveller into one of those happy few New Yorker, living in one of the 5th Avenue “Millionaires Row” prestigious residences. This historic neo-Romanesque sky-scrapper designed by Schultze & Weaver, the architectural firm responsible for The Pierre, The Waldorf-Astoria, The Breakers and other upscale luxury hotels of the Jazz Age, topped by an elaborate Gothic minaret, is strategically located opposite the main entrance of Central Park. It is actually very different from the large corporate hotels standing  in Manhattan “triangle of gold”: its 50 rooms and suites, alternate with private, co-operative apartments located in the upper floors. The Sherry's lobby was modelled after the Vatican Library; it is quite small, and nobody can wander without being noticed by the staff who knows all the guests and call them by their name. The level of intimacy and security is optimum. The turn-of-the -century panelled elevators, imported from billionaire Cornelius Vanderbilt's mansion, are masterpieces of art operated by uniformed attendants: an endangered specie which survives in this urban museum of deliciously “Old Style” hospitality, employing 140 people to satisfy its very high profiled guests. This is “the place” for the Society: a pied-a-terre at one of Manhattan's best addresses,  without the upkeep and staffing expense of a full-time New York residence for American business and political leaders; not to forget Hollywood stars, who like the stylish though informal atmosphere at The Sherry which is still, as advertised in the 1920s, “ more than a place to live…. a way of living”.

Another aspect of The Sherry makes it very exceptional: this is a co-operative property. Each guest-room is individually furnished and decorated, reflecting the personal taste of its owner. Some common rules apply of course; but the five rooms which we have inspected displayed different period furniture and precious antiques. We have been lucky enough to stay in one of the nicest suites (City View Suite #1909): covering more than 1,000 square-foot, this dramatically high ceiling, pleasantly luminous one-bedroom suite has not less than 8 windows oriented to the 5th Avenue, 59th Street and Madison (another 1,350-square-foot, two-bedroom suite overlooks Central Park). Plush turn-of-the-century furniture, fine drawings and precious antiques which might have been purchased from “A la Vieille Russie” (the antique-shop located in the same block of buildings), a large plasma TV in a gilded frame, French mirrors and Italian chandeliers... sophistication and good taste unite to create a really pleasant atmosphere contrasting with the standardized concept of the US hotels. So New Yorker, The Sherry has got a powerful European touch also: a fabulous alliance of the best from both continents. Some rooms still have a carved marble fireplace and/or a serving pantry; other (like the #1909) display a palatial marble bathroom, with original pedestal sinks with gilded taps and washbowl. Each suite has a fully equipped kitchenette (with complimentary espresso machine, a micro-wave oven, plates and silver-ware: ideal for a family). Our “minibar” was not so mini, and refilled everyday with complimentary sodas and mineral waters. Internet and local calls are complimentary also, and guests find a box of the finest Godiva Belgian chocolates, fruits, yummy Italian cheese and fresh flowers (roses in the living room and bedroom; orchids in the bathroom) as a gift. So much attention is unique in New York. The room rate could be surprisingly fair for those who don't feel obliged to come during the high season, or book through the attractive packages.

The restaurant at The Sherry-Netherland is the fashionable Harry Cipriani. A near duplicate of the famed Harry's Bar in Venice (where Guiseppe Cipriani created the Bellini and Beef Carpaccio), the restaurant re-opened in May 2007 after a $3 Million renovation. Registered guests receive a 20% discount in this refined, though pricey restaurant.

Affiliated to the prestigious Mantis Collection of privately owned boutique hotels, yachts, ski loges and eco escapes around the world, The Sherry-Netherland is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, and of Historic Hotels of America .

We loved The Sherry and its friendly efficient staff at first sight: it ranks atop of the already inspected hotels in Manhattan where we would love to stay again for another faultless experience.


THE SHERRY NETHERLAND: 781 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10022
PHONE: +1 212 355 2800    FACSIMILE: +1 212 319 4306
E-MAIL: concierge@sherrynetherland.com

LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE (*****L):  More than a century ago in 1882, Henry Villard, one of America’s most prominent financiers, commissioned McKim, Mead, & White, the outstanding architectural firm, to create an exquisite private residence. The Villard Mansion, located on Madison Avenue, surrounds a large open courtyard and was conceived in the neo-Italian Renaissance tradition, after the Palazzo Della Cancellaria in Rome. 

The hotel opened in 1980, as The Helmsley Palace: topping the Villard Mansion, which stands proud as the grand entranceway,  with a modern 55-story tower. The dark bronze, reflective glass skyscraper integrates fairly well the urban environment.

The Lotte New York Palace is a genuine palace. The impeccable service, coupled with plush interiors, exudes luxury without being snobbish: it made our overall experience very similar to our recent stays in legendary palace hotels like Le Fouquet's (Paris) and The Oriental (Bangkok). With 733 guest-rooms and 86 Towers Rooms & Suites, keeping such a top level of service comes as astonishing as remarkable, indeed. Our beautiful Junior Suite was located in The Towers. Perched on the top 14th floor, it has a separate reception lobby and dedicated concierge, private high-speed elevators, Acqua di Parma bath amenities, and Maitre d’Etage Service. Our large suite had sweeping views of the famed 5th Avenue and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The inspired Art Deco décor was lovely with plush fabrics and elegant yet comfortable furniture.  

The Lotte New York Palace four signature penthouse Triplex Suites are guaranteed to impress even the most seasoned travelers, with a vertical design that captures the essence of the city with a chic Manhattan vibe. With 5,000 sq-ft stretching through three levels, there are soaring panoramic skyline views from every angle, and on the top floor, a true rarity for New York City, a 1,500 sq. ft. private rooftop terrace and a wood-burning fireplace. This ultimate New York luxury has a price: USD 15,000 per night. In contrast to the modern Triplex Suites, The Lotte New York Palace offers the opulent, classically decorated Royal Suite. Spanning over 3,000 sq. ft. of the 45th floor, the suite resembles the private quarters of an exquisite chateau. Created by French interior designer Pierre Court, the suite is truly one of a kind and sells for USD 20,000 per night.  

The Lotte New York Palace offers approachable luxury as well! With gorgeous views of the city skyline and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Executive Lounge offers a 3,789-square-foot retreat 39 floors above the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan. In addition to offering two food presentations daily, the Lounge also features three state-of-the-art meeting rooms available for private rental for groups of up to eight people. We had fabulous food and enjoyed the wine and beer bar on a nightly basis. The lounge is offered to guests staying in Executive Level suites from floors 30-39.  

The Villard restaurant can’t be missed. Located inside the Villard Mansion, it specializes in chic breakfast and brunch, amongst the most attended in town. 

The Lotte New York Palace is a wonderful and unique property exuding a supreme elegance. 

LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE:  455 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022 
PHONE: (800) 804 7035
E-MAIL: reservations@lottenypalace.com   
 

 
THE PLAZA (*****L): U.S. National and NYC History Landmark, this 20-story French Renaissance château-style building, extending along Central Park South, is much more than a luxury hotel. Since 1907, this is the palace hotel in Manhattan. Let's compare it with the Ritz in Paris: with the qualities and defaults involved by hotels living on a legend. 

We didn't inspect The Plaza until it reopened in 2008. Nostalgic guests miss the «old Plaza»; since the hotel has been partly converted into a 152 apartments condo, with «only» 282 hotel rooms and suites remaining.  In May 2007, a new apartment was sold for a USD 50 million... just to show how prestigious the place remains! 

We stepped into the lobby, and recognized the already familiar, gilt caravanserai seen in «North by Northwest», «Crocodile Dundee», «Home Alone 2» or «Sex and The City». Glad to see that this Beaux Arts masterpiece had been refitted in its original opulence. Right or wrong, we have crossed many tourists visiting the lobby, taking plenty of pictures. This might look somehow a curb on the guests' privacy; though we could perfectly understand that the lobby was well worth a shot. More particularly the legendary Oak Room and Oak Bar, renovated with the original painted murals, wood-paneled walls and barrel-vaulted ceiling, with a view of Central Park that is incomparable. Thus this fine dining place has not been rated yet by the Michelin Red Guide, Chef Eric Hara is actively challenging for one star or two in a near future. 

The rooms are classy; though some of them lack the character one might be expecting in a palace hotel. A wireless flat-panel display provides an array of concierge services, as well as the capability to control the interior ambience. The bathrooms are ritzy. Just make sure you book a room or suite with a Central Park view: it is worth the stay. 

We will review the hotel in further details within a few months, just to see how come the service and dinning, once this luxurious vessel had reached its cruising speed. 
 

THE PLAZA: Fifth Avenue at Central Park South 
New York, NY 10019 
PHONE: +1 212 759 3000  FACSIMILE: +1 212  759 3001 
E-MAIL: theplaza@fairmont.com 
 

ELYSEE (****L): Those visiting New York on a regular basis, looking for a good value luxury hotel, already know this address. Featured in the best travel books, promoted by mouth to hear,  it has the ambience of a country inn in Manhattan best business and shopping area, plus a classy French note. A cultured hotel for cultured travellers, with an inviting library-lounge and Internet access for ALL guests (serving complimentary breakfast, evening snacks, cheese and wine...), a fireplace and a well tuned grand piano in the best suites (the “Royal Suite” is splendid, with a private terrace), not to forget the highly distinguished staff who looks sometime more high-society than the casual elegant clients, the Elysée is worth the mention amongst the most prestigious -and much more expensive- hotels which we have experienced in NYC.

We were aware of the hotel qualities: permanently ranked atop Tripadvisor, it couldn't disappoint the most spoiled traveller. The good surprise came from the size of the rooms, which we found larger and brighter than what we were expecting from a boutique hotel in Manhattan. And amazingly quiet!, though we had a street view; Madison is so close, but the noisy traffic sounds so remote. We liked the period furniture in the rooms and suites, and the lovely, well appointed bathrooms with Gichrist & Soames amenities. Each room is equipped with great bed and linens, LCD or plasma TV, iHome MP3 dock, alarm clock radio, voice-mail, two-line phone, and safe. There is high speed wireless Internet access in the rooms and in the public areas.

A reflection of good taste, the Elysée has been lovingly decorated by his owner, Henry Kallan, who manages further hotels in New York and around the world (all of them feature a special concept: just like The Library, in Manhattan, or the Aria which will open in Budapest, Hungary, within a few months): there a special family atmosphere which we hardly found anywhere else in the either ultra sophisticated, either very standardized hotels in NYC. After a long walk or business meetings, we felt like so happy to enjoy the soothing, warm ambiance of the Elysée.

Just like everywhere in New York, the rates may vary quite a lot depending on the date. During our visit, in Summer 2012, a “Street Side Superior” was US$ 320 per night, including taxes. A “Double deluxe” was US$ 415. Note that attractive special offers secure the lowest price available anywhere.

This fine hotel is a member of The Library Hotel Collection.

Warmly recommended.


ELYSEE: 60 East 54th Street, New York, NY. 10022
PHONE: +1 212 753 1066   FACSIMILE: +1 212 980 9278
E-MAIL: info@elyseehotel.com



LIBRARY (****L): The Elysée sister hotel represents fairly well the Library Hotel Collection original concept. Very boutique, discreetly luxurious and good value with attractive packages, it has been inspired by the Dewey Decimal system. Each of the 10 floors honour one of the 10 categories of the public libraries system. The 60 cosy rooms, where no detail is overlooked, are uniquely adorned with a collection of books and art exploring a distinctive topic within the category it belongs to. We stayed in the “Money” floor, and our room featured some of the most serious and technical titles over the 6,000 books displayed in the hotel. Too tired -or lazy- to read? Never mind: there is a complimentary DVD Library of the American Film Institute's top 100 films, and you can surf Internet free of charge either in your room, either in the business center which offers workstations and a printer for your convenience. We indeed liked the studious atmosphere of this uncommon hotel. The rooms are not the largest in town, some with a street view can be a little bit noisy (though they remain our favourite), but they all get that touch of refined elegance that please the returning guests at first sight. Waking up, opening the curtains and discovering the elegant and animated Madison avenue made us feel like privileged travellers. Location, location, location! In the heart of the best shopping area, close to NYC Public Library, Grand Central, and a ten minutes walk to Broadway and Time Square, the hotel is just steps from to a bus stop and B-D-F-V-M-4-5-6-7-S Subway lines.

Back from a walk in the bustling city streets, it is always a pleasure to unwind with a book or socialize with guests in the the Reading Room:  offering magnificent views of Madison Avenue and Library Way, it features hundreds of exciting best sellers. A selection of complimentary teas, coffee, cappuccino, espresso, cafe au lait, cookies and fruits is generously displayed. This is also the place for the complimentary continental breakfast buffet and complimentary evening reception including Prosecco, fine wines, imported and domestic cheeses, fresh bread, crackers, and crudités. served every day 5pm-8pm. Last but not least: for exercise or relaxation, all guests enjoy complimentary use of the New York Sports Club with locations throughout Manhattan. What else?!

This iconic hotel with anticipating staff is a member of The Library Hotel Collection.


LIBRARY HOTEL: 299 Madison Avenue, New York, NY. 10017
PHONE: +1 212 983 4500    FACSIMILE: +1 212 499 9099
TOLL FREE: +1 877 793 7323
E-MAIL: reservations@libraryhotel.com

RENAISSANCE NEW YORK HOTEL 57 (****L):  0riginally built in 1923 by architect Arthur Loomis Harmon (designer of the Empire State Building), this nice looking 17-floor brick hotel has undergone a USD 40 million renovation in 2007.  

This is now a very attractive boutique hotel, totally redesigned by Jordan Mozer, who has crafted a central hearth made of blown glass. An inlaid apple blossom in the floor and on surfaces throughout the public spaces leads guests up the glass-enclosed spiral staircase to the lounge and Opia restaurant. The 200 guest-rooms and suites are outfitted with birch paneling, 340-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, and marble tile and sinks in the bathroom. In addition, the upper floors of the property's corner carriage house hold a fitness center and two suites with exposed brick walls.  

The small, dark lower lobby doesn't reflect a luxury hotel: this is just the basic place to check-in and drop the luggage. But once in the first floor, we felt like so much in New York. A classy, innovative, multicultural atmosphere exudes from everywhere. This is the heart of the hotel. The place where the action is, attracting a brilliant clientele from the Upper East Side and Madison Avenue chic areas.  

A perfect complement to New York City's East 57th Street & Lexington Avenue's prestigious galleries and fashionable shops, the hotel is mainly targeting a young, active and rather wealthy clientele. The public areas are quite concentrated. and animated in the evening with DJ lounge music, which we enjoyed very much. However, the more mature travelers over 50 years old will certainly prefer a more classic brand from the Marriott group of hotels.  

The guest-rooms are smart, comfortable, featuring a European design with warm birch wood paneling, big flat-panel televisions, and spacious marble bathrooms with Aveda bath products.  We  have been lucky enough to stay in a Deluxe Room with a large terrace overlooking Midtown Manhattan: thes best location, with Central Park, Carnegie Hall, and some of New York's finest dining and museums at the doorstep.  

We liked very much the genuinely friendly and most efficient staff, the complimentary access to high speed WiFi in the public areas, the «à la carte» fine breakfast in the Opia restaurant, owned by two French business partners, and attractive money saving packages making this hidden gem of a hotel accessible to a larger category of travelers wishing to be part of Manhattan's vibes.  
  

RENAISSANCE  57 NYC: 130 East 57th St. New York City, New York 10022 USA 
PHONE: + 1-212 753 8841    FACSIMILE: +1-212 838 4767 
TOLL FREE:  +1-866 240 8604  
 

RENAISSANCE NEW YORK HOTEL TIMES SQUARE (****L):  This newly redesigned  hotel stands in  Midtown Manhattan's world-class entertainment district. Safer and more attractive than ever, the gentrified Times Square and Broadway now offer a pleasant environment for families: this a a cheap shopping alternative to the nearby 5th Avenue. Central Park, Madison Square Garden and the Empire State Building are just a few blocks away.  

This 26-floor, 310 rooms and suites modern building has been wisely transformed by designer Jordan Mozer into a cool boutique hotel. Very American, indeed: with extremely spacious public areas and rooms, six concierge levels, impressive though quite impersonal impersonal restaurants and lounges  surrounded by windows displaying breathtaking panoramic views of Times Square, its bright neon beckons, with heavy crowds and frenzied traffic jams. In contrast, the warm, intimate guest-rooms, featuring tasteful hardwood furniture, signature Revive bedding, 37" flat panel HD televisions with cable TV, luxurious bathrooms and state-of-the-art in-room technology. Soundproof windows silence the buzz of Times Square below, ensuring a restful night's sleep.  

There is free WiFi in the public areas.  

Rates go from USD 300 till approximately USD 600, with interesting packages available. 
  

RENAISSANCE NEW YORK HOTEL TIMES SQUARE: Two Times Square, 714 Seventh Avenue at W. 48th Street 
New York, New York 10036 USA 
PHONE: +1-212 765 7676          FACSIMILE:  +1-212 765 1962 
 
 
ST REGIS (****L): From many points of view, this is a palace hotel: a lavish mansion with a history, featuring marbles, precious carpets, and antique paintings all around, located in a prestigious, very central part of Manhattan. Then what? Though we didn't stay in this hotel yet, we have been disappointed by some "details" which would kill a reputation. The lobby looked somehow shabby, poorly maintained: the carpet right in front of the entrance door wasn't fixed, and we could see two guests stumbling... without any reaction from part of the doorman! Fifty meters from the hotel stands a cheap, smelly hot dog and "kebabs" stand. Which would never happen in the Ritz Paris or Imperial Vienna neighboring. We know that the hotel is not responsible for exterior troubles; but those spending hundreds (even thousands) dollars for a room or suite won't like it at all, for sure. 

The rooms are classic, comfortable, though not so impressive for a five star hotel. The bathrooms are among the most lovely we have seen in New York, and the St Regis is worth a good mark for this. Now, should we pay a high rate to stay there? The reply is no; unless the St Regis undergoes a major refurbishment, renewing with its past glory. 

ST REGIS: Two East 55th Street, at Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10022 
PHONE: +1-212 753 4500       FACSIMILE: +1-212 787-3447 
E-MAIL: stregisny.res@stregis.com 
 
 

GRAND HYATT NEW YORK (****): We dreamed to experience one of those grand, oversized hotels, characterizing New York. With 1,311 rooms “only”, the Grand Hyatt comes on the 5th position: after the Hilton NY (almost 2,000 rooms!),  Marriott Marquiz, Sheraton & Towers, and the Pennsylvania. A legendary concurrent -and close neighbour-, the world famous, Indian railway-station like  Waldorf Astoria, comes right after the Hyatt with 1,245 rooms. Stepping inside that kind of caravanserai is like visiting a landmark, and should be included in any tour of the “Big Apple”.  

If the cyclopean marble lobby weren't so luxurious, with refreshing fountains, sitting areas, and a long rank of reception desks, it would look like the annex of the Grand Central Terminal railway station located next door...  The eclectic clientele, featuring a large number of businessmen, queuing for check-in, contributes to our first impression. But the quality and efficiency of the service actually reflect a first class hotel: it took us five minutes to have our magnetic card handled with a smile by the reception clerk, and one minute to check out by introducing it into an ATM-like machine... The large number of lifts will please the impatient guest: we never waited more than 30 seconds to reach the top floors!  

Many rooms have a stunning views of the bustling city streets and skyscrapers; ours was located at the rear of the hotel, and amazingly quiet. With  250-square-feet (24 Sq M), it displayed much volume and comfort. We felt like the Ocean away from the “boxes” with a basic “design”, characterizing the European railway-stations hotels. It was not as impersonal as we were logically expecting; the carpet and fabrics displayed warm colours, and the furniture was actually smart. There were cable / sat channels and VOD on the large flat-screen TV,  comfortable armchair and ottoman, and an ergonomic work chair at the spacious work desk. Wireless Internet access (provided at a fee by T-Mobile), IDD dual line telephones with voicemail / data port, and even a iHome Stereo with iPod dock are part of the high-tech equipment. We enjoyed the “Grand Bed”, with European-style bedding, ultra-plush pillows, and thick down blankets piled atop irresistible pillow-top mattresses: one of the most comfortable king-size beds experienced during our visits to New York, indeed. The bathroom was quite small, but conveniently elegant: with granite vanities, imported stone flooring, marble shower stalls and deluxe Portico bath amenities.  There was a laptop-sized safe, and air conditioning.  

We are in the “City that never sleeps” and, of course, there is a 24-hour room service,  business center and "Stay Fit" gym. 

New York Central and the The Lounge at New York Central provide fine cuisine, and there are plenty of fast-food, pubs and gourmet restaurants all around. For fresh fruits or quick, yummy snacks, the Central Market (featuring bio-food) is located right beneath the lobby. 

The meeting rooms and ballrooms are impressive: rivalling in size and style the Waldorf Astoria. 

Many guests choose the hotel for its comfort and efficiency, but also for its prime Midtown location on the fashionable East Side: adjacent to Grand Central, putting the city's top attractions – including Times Square, Broadway theaters, Central Park and Fifth Avenue's world-class shopping - and major businesses a few steps away.  

Another positive aspect of the Grand Hyatt is the fact that, being so large, it is usually possible to find a nice room, quite often with promotions, when the other, much smaller first class hotels in Manhattan show no vacancy. Try it out just like us, in Autumn, or during Christmas holidays, for instance, when Manhattan is  overbooked.  

This fine Hyatt hotel is a regular winner of the Corporate and Incentive Travel magazine "Award of Excellence" 
 

GRAND HYATT NEW YORK: 109 East 42nd Street at Grand Central Terminal, 
New York, New York 10017 
PHONE: +1 212 883 1234    FACSIMILE: +1 212 697 3772 

THE HILTON CLUB NEW YORK (****): Centrally located in mid-town Manhattan, The Hilton Club New York is surrounded by well-known landmarks including Rockefeller Center, Times Square, Radio City Music Hall, The Empire State Building and Carnegie Hall. This stunning hotel provides the ultimate level of urban sophistication and style, featuring spacious and well-priced timeshare accommodations for rent and for sale. Rooms range in size and layout from studios to one-bedroom suites to penthouses, and each unit boasts amazing views of the city. Though these accommodations are well-priced, it’s possible to obtain them at even better costs by booking through an online by-owner timeshare company such as SellMyTimeshareNow.com. Rates vary based on amenities and size, but it’s a good idea to browse what’s available on the by-owner rental market first.

It is easy to get overwhelmed with the fast pace of the city, but this elegant hotel offers the comfort and convenience of a hotel, as well as personalized customer service and a host of contemporary and luxurious amenities, including an impressive 8,000 square foot fitness center and spa. Set amongst the magnificent Manhattan skyline, the Hilton Club New York provides a welcoming atmosphere and a relaxing ambiance from the moment you enter the lobby, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and the bustle of the vibrant metropolis. Expert concierge services and valet laundry service are also available so travelers can get the most out of their visit.

Those looking to do some high-end shopping or to take in a Broadway play will be pleased that Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, Broadway theatres and many additional sightseeing attractions are conveniently located just steps from the hotel. Groups or families can take a tour or an excursion and visit the enchanting city’s variety of attractions, such as art museums, gardens, historic sites, history museums, parks and zoos. Unique shops, world-renowned restaurants and dazzling nightclubs also surround the hotel, so guests will never have to go far to find something to do.

The Hilton Club New York offers visitors an affordable way to experience a truly luxurious vacation in the heart of the city, and offers a variety of affordably priced timeshare units for rent and for sale.

HILTON CLUB NEW YORK: 1335 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY. 10017
TOLL FREE: +1 877 815 4227
E-MAIL: info@sellmytimesharenow.com

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