We booked this hotel for the park view more than location and on booking specifically requested a high room. On arrival we were allocated the 8th floor, (guest rooms seem to start on the 5th floor). The 8th floor was mid level with the trees, and whilst it could be argued it gave a park view, it was not representative of the hotel website photo of the views; you would not be able to see the park.
We were invited to upgrade to a renovated higher floor with excellent views of the park. We upgraded at a cost of $50 + tax a night. Having now read reviews, it appears its common practice to give a low floor and then offer a higher renovated room, at an additional cost.
The upgrade to the 36th floor came with free international calls, WiFi, continental breakfast and a free cocktail in Harry’s bar (2nd floor) between 5pm and 7pm for each night of our stay and the view of Central Park was amazing.
Whilst we are not convinced the upgrade cost was worth it, it did allow me to communicate with the children without worrying. Unbelievably, the hotel charges $13 a day for WiFi.
We had room service twice and both times we had the salmon which was excellent.
There were 2 wardrobes with plenty of hangers, a safe, extra covers, iron, ironing board, 2 pairs of slippers and 2 bathrobes. The extending mirror, hairdryer and clothes line in the bathroom were very useful.
Our room was generous in size and included a queen size bed, desk, large dresser, two chairs, side tables and 2 comfy armchairs. The bed was very comfortable and the pillows were generous. The desk lamp was a safety hazard with its wire trailing across from the floor up to the desk; we moved this onto the floor before one of us tripped over it.
The subway was only a couple of blocks away. There were lots of diners around the hotel and these would be a cheaper option. The reception, doorman and concierge staff was friendly and efficient.
We did not use the dining area but did use Harry’s bar for our free cocktails on several occasions and found this warm and comfortable, although spoilt by the waiters checking how much tip you had left while standing at your table.
Main area
With regards to the renovation, we can only assume they are referring to a fresh lick of paint and new bedding. The room was very dated and tired looking and the carpet was stained and grotty. It was dusty and we found an opened condom packet at the side of the bed.
The mini-bar auto charges for items picked up for longer than 20 seconds, regardless of whether you have them. There was also a tray on the dresser with snacks which works in the same way. Not good if you are staying with children.
Bathroom
Very dated and in desperate need of renovating. Leaking tap, dirty bath and soap holders, mould, grotty door strip, stained loo, dusty phone, wall and floor grout dirty and discoloured. The bath had been treated/painted which left it slightly yellowish compared to the rim which was white and also gave a very bizarre feeling underfoot when showering.
The small noisy fridge located in the bathroom on the floor was nonsense.
Summary
The hotel was probably great in its day, but now looks very tired and in need of a complete renovation and a clean. It is no longer a luxury hotel.
We paid a lot for a park view only to have to pay more on arrival. We did feel as though the hotel was very clever with its room selling and left with a sense of being slightly conned.
Would we stay there again, No.
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