ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Upon walking into Conrad New York Midtown, I was immediately drawn to a large sculpture depicting Leda and the Swan by contemporary artist Carole Feuerman and impressed by the slick and stylish yet inviting lobby. Several of the staff warmly greeted me. Although I arrived mid-morning, understandably too early to get my room, the staff allowed me to check in, store my bags and freshen up in the restaurant restroom. The process was amazingly quick and easy.

When I asked the doorman for directions to the Javits Center, he wisely suggested I walk to the Hudson River, which allowed me to see the USS Intrepid, among other sites.

PHOTO: © CONRAD MIDTOWN

GUEST QUARTERS: My three most important requirements in a hotel room are bed comfort, shower quality and noise control. All three proved superb in my spacious City View suite. The king bed provided a fantastic night of sleep. The strong water pressure combined with steamy water to make my shower seem like a massage, with the showerhead offering other spray options, too. Perhaps most important, especially in a bustling area like Midtown, the room seemed sound- proof. I did not hear any noise from the halls or outside. In place of a mint on the pillow, a box of decadent chocolates greeted me.

The other room of the suite held a sofa, dining table and refrigerator. Both rooms offered beautiful views of Midtown and had large flat-screen TVs.

SERVICES/AMENITIES: The property houses an art collection featuring 37 artists, including an original Henri Matisse lithograph, two original Andy Warhol silkscreens and two limited-edition photographs by Amy Judd. At 1,500 square feet, the 24-hour fitness center was surprisingly large. My favorite part was the heavy bag, which I have not seen in a hotel fitness center. I got plenty of use from the bag and other equipment, providing some of the best hotel workouts I have ever experienced. Other pluses were the speed of the elevators and WiFi. Although I did not eat at Dabble, the on-site restaurant, it exuded a lively, casual vibe. The property also includes seven customizable venues for meetings or events. Conrad Serenity, a refreshing but subtle scent, wafts through the property through a partnership with Air Aroma.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

The property lies close to Times Square and a short walk from Central Park, Columbus Circle, the Hudson River area and more.

Cleanliness and friendliness seem to be top priority everywhere and from everyone.

The hotel is pet-friendly, with a 24/7 business center and valet parking.

The art on display is museum-worthy.

CONRAD NEW YORK MIDTOWN
151 W. 54th St.
New York, NY 10019
tel 212 307 5000
conradnewyorkmidtown.com