During Baselworld in March this year, Forbes magazine quizzed more than 50 luxury watch and jewelry execs about their best luxury hotel in NYC. Baroque Travel takes a look at the four top hotels on their list
The Mandarin Oriental
Top of the list is the magnificent Peninsula New York, closely followed by the Waldorf Astoria, The Standard High Line and the Mandarin Oriental.
The Peninsula New York
Apparently the reason everybody loves the luxurious Peninsula is because of their rooftop bar, Salon de Ning, where one can enjoy drinks on the open-air deck after a hard day and enjoy a panoramic view of the city below. The spa, which we featured in depth last week as one of the best locations to spend Mother’s Day, with an idyllic setting high above Fifth Avenue, is another reason the hotel is so popular. In fact, the Peninsula Spa is one of the most popular hotel spas in the city. Of course, the Peninsula’s location on Fifth Avenue and being centrally situated in the heart of Midtown, makes it a perfect choice.
Mandarin Oriental, New York
The Mandarin Oriental is one of the three hotels voted joint second on the list of popular luxury places to stay in Manhattan. One of the reasons this sleek, sumptuous establishment is a sought-after destination are the spectacular city views from the sumptuous rooms and suites and the hotel’s sleek, modern design. Of course, it does help that the hotel is extremely chic and stylish, and its location on top of the Time Warner Center offers breathtaking views of Central Park and gives guests access to most of the city’s major attractions, including Broadway, Lincoln Center and Fifth Avenue.
Like the Peninsula, the Mandarin Oriental also boasts a spectacular spa with six treatment rooms and a Thai Yoga room for private yoga classes, VIP Spa Suite, vitality pools and steam rooms. Of course, there’s a state-of-the-art fitness center on the premises, too.
The Standard, High Line
Located in the Meatpacking District, the sumptuous Standard High Line is a hip location that appeals to the young, and the young-at-heart. It’s also in the center of a variety of entertainment that appeals to the younger set, and offers floor to ceiling windows from every room offering spectacular views. The hotel also boasts its own ice skating rink, a 24-hour gym, and a popular rooftop bar and creperie, making it a lively location for after hours fun. Guests have use of bicycles free of charge to get around the city, another plus if you’re in the mood for exploring.
Waldorf Astoria, New York
Fans of the Waldorf Astoria love the hotel because of its classic and historic appeal. At this landmark hotel, guests enjoy a traditional luxury experience that many stars and celebrities have also experienced. Its location on Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan is another major draw card, as is the level of service, the variety of restaurants and bars on offer, and the cachet of staying in such a legendary establishment.