Arrival/Check-in: I zipped through the traffic at Columbus Circle and pulled up in front of the hotel, where a bellman was ready and waiting to take my bags and escort me into the lobby. Smaller than I had expected — but particularly cozy on a cold and rainy day — the lobby featured a check-in desk on the right and a small sitting area on the left. The elevator bank was directly in front of me, opposite the hotel entrance. Check-in was quick and easy; I was on my way to my room within minutes of arrival. As I waited for the elevator, I chatted with an attendant who, much to my delight, remembered me and asked pertinent questions about my day, meetings, etc., every time our paths crossed throughout my two-night stay. (30/30) Guest Quarters: My Executive Park View Suite opened to a spacious living area with a marble guest bath (complete with a shower) on the right and a well-equipped galley kitchen, outfitted with Sub-Zero appliances, on the left. I got a kick out of the bottled water: Trump-branded with The Donald’s smiling face front and center. The space was divided into three informal areas — dining (illuminated by a handcrafted Schonbeck crystal chandelier), relaxing and working. The ample desk, strategically placed to optimize a gorgeous view of Central Park through floor-to-ceiling windows, offered everything I needed, including conveniently placed electrical outlets. Internet service was based on a two-tier system: complimentary for standard-speed connections and at a nominal fee for faster service. I opted to stick with standard and was not the least bit disappointed. I suppose guests transferring mega-files might want the faster service, but for run-of-the–mill communications and research, standard is definitely the way to go. The separate bedroom featured a king-sized bed with plenty of pillows, high-thread-count linens and a cozy duvet, in addition to a sitting area overlooking the park. The main bath (tub/shower combo), also marble, was well equipped with plush towels, quality bath products and amenity kits containing just about everything a guest might need. A wall-mounted vanity mirror tilted to the perfect angle for make-up application. In my opinion, these little and often overlooked touches make a world of difference. My only complaint: a closet door so heavy I could barely slide it open. Or it could have been caught on the plush carpet. Either way, it was a small inconvenience. (28/30) Services/Amenities: The standout feature during my stay at the Trump International Hotel & Tower was personal service from the staff. I felt more like a resident of a private apartment building than a guest in a hotel. Time didn’t permit a visit to the spa, a swim in the 55-foot indoor swimming pool or a meal at the 3-Michelin-star Jean-Georges. Perhaps next visit. (40/40) The Experience: Shortly after my stay at New York’s Trump International Hotel & Tower, I was watching an episode of Celebrity Apprentice. The challenge involved creating an ad campaign for the hotel. While the celeb contestants wrangled with the concept of “luxury” and how to express it, I thought, a bit smugly, “I’d win this one.” Trump International Hotel & Tower is about luxury, but that’s understood and there are plenty of luxury hotels in New York City. What sets this property apart is the feeling of coming home. My winning slogan would have been: At Trump, you’re part of the family. Total Score: 98/100 Trump International Hotel & Tower New York One Central Park West New York, NY 10023 tel 212 299 1000