Stay at one of these high-end spots next time you’re in the city.
By Sery Kim
Suite at the Ritz Carlton Central Park (Photo by Sery Kim)
New York City has just under 2,000 hotels ranging from places which would cause nightmares to some of the most prestigious hotels in the world, particularly in the high-end luxury realm. Here are ten of our favorite New York City hotels.
Four Seasons Downtown
While New York City has played host to a signature Four Seasons property in Midtown at the Four Seasons New York, this September a muted yet decisively luxurious sister property opened a block from the World Trade Center. The hotel occupies the first 24 levels while the rest is occupied by 30 Park Place, swanky condos. Robert A.M. Stern designed this classic structure using soft browns, lively beiges and subtle splashes of color to bring to life the quintessential high-end experience. No technological convenience was left spared, encapsulating all services in a handy ipad where you can order everything from mouthwash to delicious food. Additionally, for spa lovers, Dr. Burgener Switzerland and Omorovicza from Budapest have created a chic retreat.
Four Seasons New York
Speaking of the Four Seasons, the Ty Warner owned and operated Four Seasons New York is a five star hotel in every sense. From the moment a guest walks through the doors, the design of famed architect IM Pei strikes guests with its modern and deco elements, particularly the indoor “garden” lounge to the right. Rooms are modern and done in crisp whites and light wood colors, with breathtaking city views (some rooms even have views of Central Park). If the budget allows for it, stay at the Ty Warner Penthouse Suite which is literally the largest penthouse in all of New York City. As for a spa, a huge space operated by L.Raphael (known for anti-aging skincare) awaits visitors seeking relaxation which includes ten treatment rooms.
Inside The Lowell Hotel (Courtesy Photo)
The Lowell
If the feel of a grand hotel gets boring, then stay at one of the Small Luxury Hotel partners, The Lowell. Designed to blend in and feel as if you are staying in a luxurious townhouse in the exclusive Upper East Side, The Lowell has less than 100 hotel rooms but is the most artfully designed of all the hotels we have chosen, including working fireplaces which the Concierge will come and light for you.
The Langham
A stay at Lanham is unlike any other, that’s how the chic contemporary hotel describes itself. Located in Midtown on Fifth Avenue, guests will enjoy the proximity to all the major tourist attractions as well as the super friendly service and extremely comfortable beds. Coming soon is the Chuan Body + Soul Spa which will be the ultimate oasis of serenity.
Ritz Carlton Central Park
Needless to say, with its location right across the street from Central Park, the Ritz Carlton is a crown jewel for the Ritz Carlton hotel group – and with good reason. Elegant and sumptuous, the team make you feel like one of the family from the moment you walk through the doors. Truly, by some magical feat, unless they are completely slammed, the staff at the Ritz Carlton Central Park can identifying your name by your appearance … even if it is your first time there! And if you only do one hotel activity, be sure to do a spa treatment. The La Prairie driven spa has the best facial in New York City.
The Plaza (Courtesy Photo)
The Carlyle
The Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel, has a history of welcoming American presidents, world leaders, and celebrities for decades. It’s a luxury hotel for the sophisticated traveler looking for a true New York experience. Inside is the Sisley-Paris Spa where guests can indulge in the Sisley’s Phyto-Aromatic Treatments using ancient massage techniques, plant extracts, and oils. So relaxing.
The Plaza
With the children’s book Eloise at The Plaza turning this Fairmont property into a cultural touchpoint, The Plaza truly has been a part of the signature New York City luxury experience. Meet up with family and friends for afternoon tea in the Palm Court or enjoy the sprawling food court a level below. Also, the new and only Vinotherapie Spa by Caudalie is at the legendary Plaza.
Library Hotel
Literally get lost in a book at your next hotel stay in New York. The Library Hotel experience is based off the Dewey Decimal System. Each room holds a collection of books associated with the category. For example the third floor of the hotel is the Social Sciences section. The hotel has more than 6,000 books in total.
Baccarat Hotel (Courtesy Photo)
Baccarat
The Baccarat company was founded by Louis XV and through the years its celebrated crystals have become a defining symbol of elegance. Last year the Baccarat company opened its first hotel and it truly has celebrated the extraordinary with its modern interpretation of a Parisian hotel. A stay at Baccarat will be intimate, individualized and utterly exclusive with Hermes throws, Baccarat crystals for everything from drinking glasses to fixtures. Additionally, Baccarat was able to convince La Mer, famous for its skincare products, to open its first U.S. spa within its doors.
The Chatwal
The Chatwal is one of the top 10 Best Hotels in New York City by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards in 2016. Guests can indulge in relaxation by booking a spa treatment at the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa. Swim in the saltwater lap pool or book a Red Door Signature facial using the PREVAGE treatment.
