I am deeply grateful to Priceline for making this midweek stay at the Barclay possible. How else could we rub elbows with world dignitaries meeting here for the UN Security Council?
In spite of its birthday almost 80 years ago, the Barclay is a world class hotel, having undergone a face lift around age 75. Luck continued to be on our side at check-in, as we landed a king size room on the top floor. What more could happen? As we reached our room, there were two bodyguards and a chair in front of the room next to us, and to this day, we will never know who slept there. Secretly I was hoping to catch a glimpse of anyone, be it in the hallway, the huge reception area downstairs or at the Bar & Grill. That's where the luck ended.
What do I remember most? The incredible softness and comfort of the bed. Beats Westin, Marriott, and I don't care who else does down covers. This was the ultimate. By New York standards, where most rooms are exaggerated boxes, this was huge. Every amenity has been thought of, right down to the midget size, $7 bottle of Evian. Working? Huge desk with ergonomic chair, Internet connection for $20, wireless otherwise. Dual line phones, and a phone in the bathroom as well. Make up mirror, English soaps, shampoos etc... along side plush terry robes. Lethargic? Head to the fitness center on the third floor. Hungry? Have a bite at the Bar & Grill downstairs; we did and disappointingly, the service is S L O W. But the Mezze platter arrived with pita chips and was perfect. However, we were overcharged, and that's far from perfect. Check all tabs and bar bills.
I don't recommend you eat here, unless your rich aunt has just left you a ton of money. Breakfast buffet is $20 and I think the pancakes were $16. Across the street is a wonderful, small sandwich/grocery store with fresh bagels, muffins, scones, cappuccino, and just about anything to warm your heart and soul in the morning. Chuck also went to Starbucks one morning and came back with goodies.
As with all New York venues, the lobby is no exception for people-watching; with its proximity to the UN, the Barclay has been known to host some well respected names of the world community. It does not get much more cosmopolitan than this, when English becomes the language you hear least around you.
If you are coming with your car, the hotel has no parking, but they will send you to a lot that will charge you $35/day... actually, that's a bargain, you know. Once you park you car, leave it there, and take taxis or trains to get around.
Did I tell you about the wonderful fresh flowers, mostly tiger lilies, in the lobby? And if you look up at the ceiling, it's a marvelous work of geometry and light.