A First Look at The New Algonquin

by Michael, Director of Hotel Sales

I worked at the Algonquin many years ago and was drawn to it for the nostalgia and history it represents. At the time, it was a quirky hotel on club row surrounded by much more up-market hotels, but the Gonk (as we so lovingly referred to it) represented so much more than a hotel…it was an experience…it was stepping back in time where the spirit of the those that sat around the Round Table so long again were still there. Granted the names and faces were different, but the spirit was still in play. To that end, it was with great trepidation that I went to see the new renovation as I heard so many of the iconic elements that made the the Algonquin the Algonquin were stripped away. However, what I experienced upon entering the new Gonk quickly alleviated my fears—it’s not just a renovation but also a restoration. They have masterfully combined the timeless elegance of yesterday with the modern convenience of the 21st century.

The lobby still maintains its “parlor” like feel…often referred to as an oasis of serenity in a city that does not know how to spell serenity. The Blue Bar has been both expanded and updated—it will no longer be a dark bar serving wonderful cocktails but the new bar will create an experience, and those who often asked “why is this called the Blue Bar?” will never have to asked again. Much to the dismay of many, the Oak Room is no more. After having help launch the careers of Michael Feinstein, Diana Krall, Harry Connick Jr, Jaime Cohen to name but a few, it has now been transformed in to quite an elegant breakfast room to serve the many business travelers during the week. But just wait: new happenings are planned for the space that will put this iconic room back on everyone’s weekend’s itinerary.

The famous wallpaper that was designed by the illustrators of the New Yorker magazine is gone. However, what is lost in nostalgia is gained in the perception that the once dark hallways appear to be that much bigger and more inviting. Guest rooms still have that residential feel however, all the modern conveniences have been installed. The really most exciting improvement is the bathrooms. Those they thought the bathrooms was not user friendly are in for a surprise—the new bathrooms feature walk-in showers, ample lighting, and a functional sink area where one can place their personal items

All and all the Gonk is positioned to continue its grand heritage and will once again, welcome those travelers looking for some thing a bit different than saying in a big box hotel. The ghosts are still there…even Matilda is still in the house but one thing has changed…for the first time since 1902, an automatic ice maker has been added for guest convenience. Fear not though, guest can still call down to have ice delivered to their room complimentary as in days past.

Want to be one of the first to stay at the new Algonquin? E-mail us at info@newyorkguest.com for exclusive package deals!

Hotel Hopping in Manhattan

by Eileen, New York Guest Travel Planner

Hello again!

No Broadway show for me this week.  Instead I had the great opportunity to visit a couple of the hotels New York Guest can offer to our guests who come to New York.

As a Travel Consultant, I work primarily with direct to consumer and online sales.  When you send in a quote request, I or one of my colleagues begin looking into what’s available for your stay.  Matching the right person with the right hotel takes a lot of searching, extensive knowledge of each property, and a little bit of luck.

The Residence Inn by Marriott

The Residence Inn just completed a round of renovations.  This hotel is in an amazing location!  You’re right across from Bryant Park, just around the corner from Times Square and the Theatre District, and within walking distance of Fifth Avenue and the Empire State Building!

The Marriott Residence features rooms with a queen bed and rooms with two double beds.  The rooms with two beds are on the larger end- about 450 square feet.  There is plenty of closet space, and the bathroom features a shower and bathtub (a major bonus for me).

Each room at the Residence Inn features a kitchenette with a fridge, microwave, and crock pot.  This is a huge plus for those of us who do not always want to go out to dinner each night.  Plus as Louise pointed out, the crock pot can be used to make stew.  How amazing would it be to come back to your room after exploring New York all day to have homemade stew!  Also when you book with New York Guest, breakfast is included!

Aside from its great location and amazing rooms, the Residence Inn has a significant amount of lounging area for guests to relax outside of their rooms.  There is a large lounge area that features multiple televisions and of course complimentary Wifi.  The Residence Inn also has an onsite fitness center and multiple meeting spaces.

The Beekman Tower Hotel

The Beekman Tower Hotel is another great property located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.  This hotel is targeted towards long term stay guests.  Each hotel room features a kitchen with a full oven, stove stop, microwave and refrigerator.  The hotel rooms are spacious enough for you to move around in as well!

The Beekman is one of the oldest hotels in New York.  The property was built right along what was to be First Avenue in the beginning of the century.  However that’s not say that the hotel has remained outdated— it completed its latest renovation last year.  The old world feel of the Beekman is not lost amongst the crowd of newer buildings occupying the same street.

The most delightful part about the Beekman is the Top of the Tower Restaurant that features stunning views of the Upper East Side, Midtown, and Queens.  The Top of the Tower can be rented out to host cocktail parties and other meetings.  However anyone can make a reservation and enjoy the food and view!

The Carlton Hotel

The Carlton Hotel is a boutique property located on Madison Avenue.  The property was built about a century ago and has expanded a good deal.  Housing the popular French restaurant, Millesime, the Carlton is a great option for business and leisure travelers with a great location for those visiting New York.  The Carlton is within walking distance of the Empire State Building, Herald Square, and Penn Station.

Since the building is bit older, the rooms are on the smaller end.  However I felt that the rooms had an intimate aspect to them.  All of the in-room amenities are up to date — new bathroom, new television, and mini bar.

The restaurant Millesime is a must see and experience at the Carlton.  The restaurant has tremendous space with seating in several different areas as well as the bar.  The salon is open and airy and lets in a good deal of natural sunlight.  The gem of the Millesime dining area was a tiffany dome window that let in an amazing amount of natural light.  I strongly suggest you visit the Carlton!

The Manhattan at Times Square

The Manhattan at Times Square, formerly the Sheraton Manhattan, is a wonderful three star property that sits just north of Times Square.  The hotel is within walking distance of Times Square, many of the major Broadway theatres, Central Park, the Museum of Modern Art, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and so much more!

The Manhattan at Times Square is one of the few properties in Manhattan that has a pool.  Most of the time when a Manhattan property claims to have a pool, it ends up being a small pool that can only fit a few people in at a time.  The Manhattan has a short course pool that expands to 25 meters.  Adjacent to the pool is a sun deck where guests can relax or sunbathe.  The other side of the pool features the fitness center that has window ceiling that lets in a large amount of natural light.

This hotel is great for those who are interested in staying within walking distance of all the major sights.  This hotel is also great for groups interested in adjoining rooms!  The hotel’s rates are wonderful for the location and the hotel definitely offers a great New York experience.

Now that you’ve heard about some of our favorite hotels, are you ready to start planning your NYC getaway? E-mail info@newyorkguest.com for customized packages and amazing deals at these or dozens of other properties we love.

Beth: An Ace Up Your Sleeve

Last week I had the pleasure of checking out the Ace Hotel. This hotel has a fun, hipster vibe that will make you feel like you never left home.  Conveniently located in the Flat Iron District, this hotel is equipped with artwork done by native New Yorkers and offers  great entertainment and food options galore. The large main lobby is open to the public and features long library tables– perfect for sitting with your laptop and taking advantage of their free wi-fi access.  Also in the lobby is a classic bar where you can grab a quick drink before heading out to see a Broadway show or hang out through the night.

Often bringing in a great crowd, Q-Tip (rapper of A Tribe Called Quest fame) is the house DJ on Friday nights. The Ace Hotel also houses two great restaurants, the Breslin Bar and Restaurant and the John Dory Oyster Bar. Fixing for some caffeine? You can access Stumpton Coffee Roasters for a nice cup to start your day (I highly recommend the vanilla latte!).

The rooms in the Ace Hotel are unlike many of the other hotels in New York City. These rooms are spacious, yet very cozy. They offer rooms with queen beds as well as rooms with two double beds. The décor is unique to each room and the soft flannel bedding makes you feel like you’re right at home.  A unique perk for musicans or music fans: in some of the rooms you will find a guitar or record turntables!

Whether you’re just looking for a place to be in the middle of it all or want to tuck away in your Ace bathrobe and play some music, the Ace Hotel has room for you!

Looking for a special deal? Check out our Spiderman and the Ace Hotel Package

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I forgot my camera, so images are courtesy of the reviewers on Tripadvisor