Swanky but creaky! and other New York City, NY Hotel/Accommodation Reviews

We fancied bit of class to our stay in 2005 and managed to get a good deal at the Waldorf Astoria. The "standard room" was huge, with a little dressing room, bathroom, sofa and two double beds. However, the decor was still lingering in the 1930s, and furniture heavy wooden and like something from my Gran's home.

The restaurant - Oscars - on one corner of the hotel (open to Non residents) served up quality breakfasts at a price you'd expect from the Waldorf, and the bar served fantastic Tiramisu cocktails.

It was a great opportunity to live like a snob for a few days, but I wouldn't want to go back, as this hotel was basking too much in the olden days for my liking. I couldn't fault the service though, even if the lift door could be vicious!

Unique Qualities: Its facade is very impressive, and at Christmas time the lobby is decorated very festively!
There is also now a Starbucks located in the basement.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: more expensive than average
Prices: US$180 and up  » Currency Converter
Phone: 212-355-3000
Address: 301 Park Ave, New York, NY 10022
Directions: The hotel takes up the entire block between Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue at 50th Street. Handy for 5th Ave posh shops, Central Park and Rockefeller Plaza.
Website: www.waldorfastoria.com

The hotel describes its rooms as "Heavenly" and it really was! We were upgraded to an "Executive Club" room, with plenty of space, comfy chairs and a coffee table, flat screen large TV, Apple mac, huge shower head, free newspapers, a marshmallow duvet and wonderful pillows and stylish modern decor. There is a blackout blind and double glazing that keeps the bright lights and noise out.

A continental breakfast in the "Executive Club" was included - a decent spread of the usual cereals, breads, meats, juices, yoghurts and fruit.

There is a gym on site but - despite good intentions - we never quite made it!

Overall a very comfortable stay.
Thoroughly recommended!

Unique Qualities: The hotel is built over a Starbucks and a cinema - you can grab a film and a coffee without going out in the cold!

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: more expensive than average
Prices: US$180 and up  » Currency Converter
Address: 270 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036
Directions: Turn west from Times Square and there are entrances on both 43rd Street (main entrance) or 42nd Street (rear entrance) near to 8th Avenue
Website: www.westinny.com