Guest Author - Julia Reed Zaic
Part of the international chain of Warwick Hotels, the Warwick New York City is an elegant property with few sisters in North America. With only five properties in the United States, the primarily international presence of this chain is apparent in the stateside hotels, like this one. It is centrally located and offers premium service and ambiance to it guests. It’s perfect for the business or leisurely traveler.
Located at 65 West 54th Street, the Warwick Hotel’s sign is lit up like a Broadway marquee. The hotel was originally commissioned by William Randolph Hearst in 1929 and if it weren’t things like handicap access and the hybrid taxi that drops you off at the door, you might think it was still 1929. The lobby says “luxury”, the website says “affordable”.
With 359 decent sized “New York” hotel rooms (the smallest being 250-300 sq. ft.) and 67 suites, there is much to choose from with regard to your accommodations. Better yet, the website is well designed and allows you to peruse the pictures to determine the best room for your stay. During my most recent stay, I selected a Deluxe suite with a living area that included a table for four, a couch, two chairs and table. These accommodations are perfect for a small meeting with colleagues since the area was separate from the bedroom. The Premier and Deluxe suites are likely the more “usual” suites available, but for something a bit different, choose a signature suite.
If larger accommodations are needed, or if you really just want to impress your colleagues, the signature suites range from the Hollywood suite, to the Suite of the Stars. The latter features a wrap around balcony with stunning views of the city. The website describes these rooms as having the aura of Hollywood glamour and it sure seems that way in person.
With all “classic” New York hotels, it should always be noted that these hotels are not “new”. At the Warwick, the bathrooms are where the not-so-newness is apparent. Although they are extremely luxurious, the fixtures are not very updated. However, as a business traveler, getting ready and getting out the door is likely more of a rushed process so the lack of an oversized soaking tub isn’t really going to matter much to most of us.
The hotel offers wireless high speed internet for about $12 per 24-hour period. There is a rudimentary business center that has fax and copying services just off the lobby. There are also meeting and banquet rooms available that can host anywhere from 10-300 people. I have not used these facilities or dealt with the catering staff, but if the service that the front desk and bell staff offers is an example of customer service overall, you will be very, very well taken care of.
There is one restaurant and one bar on the premises; Murals 54 and Randolph’s, respectively. Unfortunately, Murals 54 is only open for breakfast and lunch, not dinner. However, there is 24-hour room service and Randolph’s serves a bar menu selection of food for a quick bite in the evening. For the most part, unless you are short on time, these dining selections will force you to get out of the hotel for dinner and to partake of the local restaurants. Never a bad thing while traveling.
Prices are competitive at the Warwick, which means it can get expensive during the high seasons (e.g., spring and the holidays). During the low-seasons, the rates will match those of comparable hotels, yet might still be high since this is a popular property and even during the low-season occupancy can be somewhat high.
There is gym on site that is adequate for a quick workout. Spa services can be arranged through the concierge.
Overall, the most prominent feature of this hotel, in my opinion, is the service, comfort and atmosphere. This is always important no matter where you travel, however, it is a feature that stands out to me as a west-coaster who often takes the redeye eastbound. Arriving at 5:30 a.m. after not sleeping on an overnight flight will cause you to notice even the slightest of attitudes. None found at the Warwick so far. It’s all smiles and great service.
Travel safely.
