Description: I chose the four-star rated Excelsior hotel for its proximity to a conference I was attending, but once booked, I heard from everyone what a great place to stay it was. And they were absolutely correct!
The rooms were what I’d call New York European style. They were small, like European rooms, but had the style and sophistication expected of a New York hotel. The hotel, however, called it a French country motif. While small, you certainly didn’t feel cramped. There was a closet behind the entry door to hang "wrinkleables," The bathroom was a sufficient size and there was even room for a tv armoire, a desk and chair, and sitting area in the room – all this AND a bed. ;)
I had been granted a view of Central Park and the planetarium (the two choices were city view or park view.). Located on 81st street between Columbus and Central Park West, I was within walking distance to the New York Historical Society (where my conference was held), Central Park, Amsterdam St. (and it’s fine shops and diners), Columbus St. (and it’s shops) and more.
The staff was very helpful. The bellman took care of the luggage in a prompt and very courteous (not snooty) way and there was always someone there to flag down a cab (though I enjoyed this part of getting into the New York spirit, and liked to do it myself as much as possible.) The front desk tried as hard as they could to get me a room with two double beds (I had one queen bed, and a friend coming for the weekend to hang in NY with me) – even though the hotel was booked solid. At least they tried.
The lobby of the hotel was gorgeous, with two sitting areas on either side of a small staircase that was through the rotating door. There was also a tourist desk and a very small shop near the elevators.
My stay was pleasant – I managed to get plenty of sleep (despite the noise level outside) as the bed was comfortable and you could block out the morning light with the window treatments. It was clean, and I even got a complimentary copy of
USA Today and
The NY Times (if requested) to read as I got ready in the morning.
I was very impressed by this hotel. I would stay there again and recommend it to anyone. I rate it a 9 out of 10.
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