New York Never Sleeps, But You Might

Story by
Gillian and Mark Abramson 

 

The major expense in travel often more than the cost of air is what big city hotels charge for a hotel room. Prices for quality hotels in Manhattan average about $500 per night. Finding a room on short notice is almost impossible. So, it helps to book reservations far in advance. And it helps to have an idea of what New York City hotels are like. Well, most are prestigious, polished, plush, European, and expensive. They are havens, insulated from the outside world, in one of the world's noisiest cities. At the end of a day of sightseeing and shopping it's like coming home—if only home were this perfect. Here are thumbnail sketches of hotels we’ve enjoyed in New York, New York, that city so nice they named it twice.

Bentley—If it weren't for a small sign hanging out front, the Bentley at 500 East 62nd Street, would be hardly noticeable. Nothing inside (including the rooms) identifies its name, either. The guest rooms are spacious, with about 29 feet worth of windows overlooking the East River. The lobby is very understated. The hotel seems to strive for a subdued, modern elegance. The Bentley is in a quiet yet central location, where catching a cab is easy. The hotel's initial discount rate is fabulous.

Carlyle—Among the guests who've stayed at the Carlyle at 35 East 76th Street, are Princess Diana and Marilyn Monroe. The staff is gracious, discrete, and not always looking for tips like the staffs at so many hotels in New York City. Bobby Short and Dixie Carter have often headlined at the piano bar. The Carlyle is where guests who want to maintain a low profile stay in New York.

Plaza—Location. Location. Location. The Plaza at 5th Avenue at Central Park South, is a New York monolith, emblematic of the city and used in movies to signify the Big Apple. The Plaza maintains the most recognizable front of all Manhattan hotels. Ivana Trump made the hotel bar, the Oak Room, gorgeous with renovations. Unlike the Carlyle, the Plaza serves a clientele that's more interested in seeking publicity.

Marriott Marquis—The Marriott Marquis at 1535 Broadway, is two shakes from Times Square. The higher up in the hotel, the better for appreciating the spectacular view of Times Square's neon signs through the Marriott's floor-to-ceiling windows. It's an unbelievable experience for visitors who want to be immersed in New York City—and the curtains are easily drawn when it's time to sleep. In addition, the hotel's restaurant has a revolving platform with seats that offer patrons a different view with every bite. Spare time? Catch a Broadway show in the theater located beneath the hotel.

SoHo Grand—The SoHo Grand at 310 West Broadway, is rather unassuming on the outside. Inside, the lobby has a industrial look. Old structures have been preserved and polished eliciting a surprisingly modern, even futuristic, atmosphere. The rooms are functional and typically minimalist. The toiletries are from Kiel's Pharmacy (the city's oldest), the telephone has a data port and voice mail, and complimentary coffee, freshly brewed, is available 24 hours a day. For pet lovers a gratis goldfish is available for every room when requested on arrival. The bar inside the hotel is nonsmoking, but it has nonetheless managed to maintain a smoky, sultry atmosphere. Overall, the service at the SoHo Grand is impeccable.

Morgan's—Morgan's at 237 Madison Avenue, is located in the district where J.P. Morgan used to live. The hotel is very modern and minimalist, with a trendy bar in the basement. It's cool, chic, but somewhat low profile—it doesn't even have a sign outside on Madison Avenue. Prices include breakfast in the morning and Scottish cashmere blankets on the bed.

Benjamin—The Benjamin at 125 East 50th Street and Lexington Avenue, combines old-fashioned hospitality with new technology. Every room has a fax machine and computer modem, and each room comes with a choice of seven types of bed pillows. On request, the hotel even prints business cards with the guest's name and hotel address. The rooms are surprisingly spacious and soothingly decorated. The small lobby, not as impressive as the rooms, is presided over by a portrait of Mr. Benjamin, himself. The hotel's perfect location almost is rendered unnecessary by the Olympic ability of its doormen to obtain cabs.

Mansfield—The Mansfield at 12 West 44th Street, is a beautiful example of a New York City boutique hotel—meticulously appointed rooms, a perfectly situated address, and an elegant, cozy atmosphere. The hotel once catered exclusively to the needs of wealthy, pampered young bachelors. It has been restored to showcase its original features—dark, polished wood, etched glass panel doors, and marble floors. For avid shoppers, Barney's, Henri Bendel, Bergdorf Goodman, and Saks are all within easy walking distance. The Mansfield has a marble bar with candlelit tables, wood paneled walls, and soothing music, a perfect end to a busy Manhattan day.

If You Go

The New York City & Company Convention &t Visitors Bureau (800-NYC-VISIT) provides all of the details that Big Apple travelers need to become savvy Manhattanites. In the city, check out the Visitor Information Center (810 Seventh Avenue and 53rd Street for brochures, maps, and theater tickets. For the latest city happenings, pick up a free copy of Where Magazine and City Guide and buy an issue of Time Out New York and New York Magazine at one of the city's many newsstands.