Arrival/Check-In: I arrived at the 5-star New York City hotel late afternoon on a Friday. After a traffic-congested cab ride from Penn Station, I was eager for a quick check-in and some downtime before my evening plans. I was traveling with my mom and wanted her to enjoy a luxury experience, as we were celebrating her recent milestone birthday. Upon our arrival, our bags were carried up the steps and to the reception desk for us, where a welcome surprise awaited — we’d been upgraded to a deluxe suite. In just a few minutes we were on our way to the 1,050-square-foot guestroom with plenty of time to relax before our dinner reservation.

Guest Quarters: Our room was spacious — likely bigger than a majority of New York City apartments. A separate dressing room, two closets, a vanity area and the double sinks in the bathroom were all much-appreciated amenities as we got ready for the evening, allowing each of us ample space and privacy.

The door opened into a hallway, with the living room to the right. The space offers views of Fifth Avenue and was furnished with a small table, two chairs, a desk, a couch, a coffee table and an armchair. The couch sits opposite a TV housed in a built-in wall unit, also home to the minibar and other amenities. On the left of the entrance is a half bathroom before the room opens into the vanity/closet area. The large marble bathroom features a soaking tub, shower, separate water closet, two sinks and my favorite Oscar de la Renta bath amenities. I especially appreciated the travel-sized hand sanitizer!

Services/Amenities: For a central location in the Big Apple, you can’t go wrong at The Peninsula New York, conveniently located to Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue shopping and Broadway. Inside the hotel, enjoy the rotating art exhibits sometimes on display.

This visit afforded me the opportunity to dine at Clement, but unfortunately there wasn’t time to stop by Salon de Ning rooftop bar and terrace or Gotham Lounge. Next time I visit, afternoon tea at Gotham Lounge is top on my list. In-room dining is also available.

Also high on my list for my next stay is a visit to The Peninsula Spa, which offers signature treatments blending Asian, European and Ayurvedic philosophies. A fitness center, indoor pool, sun terrace and Vu Hair New York salon round out the wellness offerings. Meeting and event space is also available.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ As is always my experience at The Peninsula brand, the service is exceptional, with a true attention to detail.

◆ I was in New York City overnight to see a Broadway musical; while the weather was pleasant and I opted to walk, it was nice to know the hotel offered a complimentary shuttle to and from Broadway for hotel guests.

◆ I enjoyed both breakfast and dinner at the on-site Clement Restaurant, serving American fare. Both meals were fantastic.

The Peninsula New York

700 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY 10019
tel 212 956 2888
newyork.peninsula.com