Description: I knew I was in for a special experience when I received a call at home two days before my scheduled arrival to confirm my reservation. Igor assured me they were looking forward to my visit. No one has ever done this to me before.
If you wanted to be pampered at a price that real people can afford, then this is your hotel. This was a luxury experience, and it included a very extensive continental breakfast
and coffee, cappuccino, espresso, tea, and cookies 24/7. On weekdays, there is also an afternoon wine-and-cheese reception. The selection was generous enough that we didn’t need to eat dinner our first evening.
Our room was beautiful, with a Moroccan theme. We had a queen bed, a small table with two chairs,
and a wall unit that held our TV and a mini bar. In our closet were two terry robes and an iron and ironing board. There was plenty of light, and even the window cornice was lit from behind.
The bathroom was stunning, and the floor and the walls were all tiles. What was stunning was the shine; my bathroom at home isn’t as clean as this bathroom was. It was beautiful, with a rattan rack that held all our amenities and a pedestal sink. I was very impressed.
Now, what didn't impress me: I mentioned we had a queen bed. I had ordered and confirmed a king bed. I was downgraded and not told, even at check-in. This disturbed me, and I called the front desk to find out why. I don’t think I ever got an answer that totally satisfied me, but I did get a bowl of chocolates,
a bottle of champagne with a bowl of grapes, and a certificate for an upgrade to a suite. My situation couldn’t be changed on this visit, but every effort was made to make sure I was happy and was willing to give them another try. That is what makes this hotel so different--the staff really cares. You feel like a guest, not a burden. Everyone we met--Leon, Lenny, and Nick, just to name a few--was concerned that we had the best possible experience, and, I want to add, we did.
Rick’s Café is where you stop to get your cappuccino fix or to use the free DSL. Guests congregate here; they even talk to each other. It is a very friendly place. Breakfast is served here. In addition to bagels and delicious little Danish, there are mini muffins, croissants, yogurt, fresh whole fruit, cut-up melon, juice, and boiled eggs. You will find plenty to tempt your appetite, and all of the finest quality.
Our first stay in NYC was a memorable experience, and I can’t wait to use my upgrade.
Close