All Images Credit: Matt Kisiday

Now Now NoHo borrows from the stripped-back pragmatism of Japanese capsule hotels and the nostalgic intimacy of European sleeper trains. Yet this is no soulless pod accommodation. Led by Dovetail + Co, the group behind the Wayfinder hotels and Urban Cowboy Lodge, the project redefines the capsule model for a design-savvy solo traveller.

Its location is no accident. The Bowery is the oldest street in New York, and for much of the 20th century was shorthand for grit, dive bars, punk gigs, and underground theatres. Today, the neighbourhood sits at the convergence of Soho, the East Village, and the Lower East Side. Step outside and you’re plugged into Manhattan’s cultural bloodstream. Independent galleries, live music venues, and late-night diners are all within reach, while the subway whisks you uptown in minutes.

Every element of the cabins has been carefully considered, sleep on custom Wright mattresses with Garnier-Thiebaut linens, wrap yourself in Brooklinen robes, and use Grown Alchemist bath products. A sleep mask, earplugs, sound machine, and wireless charging dock are standard, turning a tiny space into a cocoon of comfort. For those wanting additional personality, ten “Now or Never” cabins add a splash of artistry, each decorated with murals by local names, including Alyss Odle and Daniela Araya.

Interiors by New York’s Islyn Studio lean into the surreal. Inspired by the “vivid world of dreams,” it blurs the line between the real and the imagined. Bathrooms are a case in point, think bold purple doors, green herringbone tiles, asymmetrical mirrors, and pendant lighting. Functionality sits alongside whimsy, proving that even the most practical spaces can be moments of delight.

Phil Hospod, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dovetail + Co. says “We’ve created an experience where travellers can immerse themselves in the energy of the city while enjoying a comfortable, design-forward, and community-driven stay. It’s a space that invites exploration both of the self and of the world around you“.

That ethos is most visible in the communal areas. The lounge doubles as a social hub, complete with a Connections Board where guests can leave notes, plan meet-ups, or simply share a thought with strangers. A lifestyle vending machine dispenses everything from adaptogenic mushroom gummies to beauty masks. Events range from yoga sessions at nearby Three Jewels to happy hours at Bowery Electric, reminding guests that this is a hotel designed as much for exploration outside its walls as within them.

Technology underpins the hotel. Check-in is via a mobile app where you can skip queues, and receive alerts about surprise perks, complimentary concert tickets, last-minute entry to an art show, an unexpected museum pass.

Perhaps the most intriguing element is the membership model. For a monthly fee, receive a complimentary night’s stay, discounted rates thereafter, and perks such as early check-in. Annual members even receive a robe and slippers. These programmes hint at how hospitality is shifting. Hotels are no longer just places to stay, they are lifestyle ecosystems. Now Now NoHo acknowledges that many travellers, especially younger ones, don’t simply want accommodation, but a sense of being part of something ongoing.

This is not a hotel for everyone. Guests seeking infinity pools, rooftop bars, or suites with floor-to-ceiling views will find none of that here. But for solo explorers, digital nomads, and those who find luxury in design thinking rather than excess, Now Now NoHo is quietly radical and reminds us that sometimes the greatest luxury is not size, but curation, proof that in the right hands, less can indeed be more.

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Previously reserved for private collaborations and exclusive bookings, the space is now open to a wider audience, offering both hotel guests and locals a setting that feels secretive yet connected to the world beyond. Its reopening marks a new chapter for a venue long regarded as a hidden gem in the city.

The concept draws inspiration from the Silk Road, a historic network of cultural and culinary exchange. Each cocktail on the menu evokes a different destination along this fabled route, weaving together flavours and traditions from Mandarin Oriental’s global portfolio. Guests are invited to taste the spice of Doha, the tea rituals of Bangkok, the colours of Istanbul’s bazaars, and the quiet elegance of Lake Como all distilled into finely crafted drinks.

Read our guide to the best hotels in Manhattan

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First opening in 1893 on Fifth Avenue (before moving to its Park Avenue address in 1931) the hotel became a hub for high society welcoming music legends, socialites’ royalty and presidents, and paved the way as a pioneer in the world of luxury hospitality. Credited with introducing in-room telephones, modernising 24-hour in-room dining, and employing the first female cooks in a hotel kitchen, the brand is more than just a hotel it’s a cultural icon.

Guests staying at the recently opened New York hotel can expect grandeur and exceptional service delivered through a forward-thinking approach shaped by visionary design, world-class culinary experiences, and a deeply embedded sense of place. 

Read our review of the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok

The meticulous restoration, led by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and legendary designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, preserves iconic spaces like the Grand Ballroom and Peacock Alley while introducing 375 of Manhattan’s most spacious guest rooms and suites. At the heart of the new experience, the Park Avenue Lobby, which is home to Yoshoku, a new kaiseki-inspired restaurant. These new offerings, along with the return of Peacock Alley and the signature American brasserie Lex Yard, will feature a cocktail program designed by award-winning mixologist Jeff Bell. Above it all, 372 private residences designed by Jean-Louis Deniot offer a new benchmark for Park Avenue living, complete with the legendary Waldorf Astoria service. 

Not one to rest on its laurels, Waldorf Astoria, Hilton’s formidable luxury brand also enters a new chapter of transformation, with a global vision that blends the brand’s storied past, enduring commitment to timeless design and intuitive service with local culture and thoughtful partnerships.  

Dino Michael, senior vice president and global head, Hilton Luxury Brands, said, “In every Waldorf Astoria, we have tributes to the original. The intent is they inform our history; they give a guiding nod to the past but also allow us to reinterpret them for the future.” 

Growing its global presence in the world’s most sought-after destinations, the portfolio now spans 36 properties across 18 countries – with 17 new openings and 33 additional properties in the pipeline.

Discover more luxury hotels in New York

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Why You Should Get on Board…

Luxury travellers are breaking the mould and coolcations are on the rise. Travellers are being enticed by the unique experiences on offer in some of the world’s most beautiful and underappreciated destinations. Coolcations are the perfect way to avoid the oppressive summer heat and humidity. However, they offer much more than just a change in temperature, coolcations are ideal for exploring the great outdoors, escaping crowded tourist hotspots, and taking on new adventures. Coolcations are also perfectly suited for those looking to make their travels more sustainable by reducing their carbon footprint and by helping to lessen the issue of over-tourism in traditional holiday destinations.

Where to Go & What to Do…

What’s more, you’ll find somewhere to visit all year round. Seize the opportunity to expand your horizons and tick off some bucket list items. Upgrade your experience with luxurious accommodation and indulge in some peace and quiet, sheltered from the elements, after a long day of adventure. Still not sure where to go? Here are some of our favourite destinations:

Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík has proven to be an excellent coolcation destination, no matter the season, thanks to its mild summer temperatures. There’s plenty to do and see including once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to witness the midnight sun, the Northern Lights, and a whole host of exciting attractions. There are geothermal pools and hot springs galore as well as glaciers and ice caves. Nature lovers will appreciate the dramatic landscapes of black sand beaches and dramatic waterfalls in addition to the unique wildlife on land and at sea. Whether you’d prefer to spend the day unwinding in the Blue Lagoon, adventuring into the Golden Circle, or exploring all that the city has to offer, there’s something for everyone in and around this vibrant capital.

Explore luxury hotels in Reykjavík

Quebec, Canada

This one-of-a-kind province showcases a unique blend of North American and European history and culture. A coolcation to Quebec City will invite you to discover the charm of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Quebec, and the historic Quartier Petit Champlain. There’s also the impressive Chateau Frontenac to see, overlooking the city and the Saint Lawrence River. Visitors flock to see the nearby Montmorency Falls, and it’s clear to see why, the staggering falls and the surrounding park are a sight to behold. Alternatively, the province’s largest city, Montreal, offers a diverse experience with impressive landmarks like the Notre Dame Basilica and the quaint Old Montreal. This region is renowned for its exquisite culinary scene, bursting with French influence and its celebrations of French-Canadian culture.

Explore luxury hotels in Quebec

Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Scotland’s mild summers and picturesque countryside make the Highlands a favourite when it comes to outdoor adventures. The country’s north coast is home to the legendary North Coast 500 route, a 516-mile loop from the city of Inverness and back, which attracts bikers, holidaymakers, and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. There’s more than enough space for activities and water sports in the lush countryside and its scenic lochs with lots of pretty villages to discover, full of warm and welcoming locals. Why not take a day trip to one of the islands? Or venture into one of the cities and embrace the hustle and bustle, especially the spectacular capital which hosts the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival every summer.

Explore luxury hotels in Scotland

New York City, USA

There really is nowhere like the Big Apple. New York City never stops, and its iconic skyline makes it a dream destination for travellers from all over the world. From its multi-cultural culinary scene to its bustling streets, the energy of the Empire State can be felt all over and will surely leave you wanting to come back. You can spend the day strolling through the greenery of Central Park or the High Line or opt to soak up the city vibes and go sightseeing. Make sure and make time to sit still and recharge, and where better than at the latest Broadway show? There’s so much else to see, like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and a myriad of museums and exhibitions, all of which can be enjoyed with fewer crowds during shoulder seasons.

Explore luxury hotels in New York City

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is a trendy city, ideal for every type of holiday, but especially for those looking for a relaxed city break away from the heat of the Southern European summer. The city demonstrates a blend of rich history and modern, sustainable living. The colourful Nyhavn, the Little Mermaid, and Copenhagen’s stunning castles offer picture-perfect backdrops while Tivoli Gardens is truly wonderful for a fun-filled day out and perfect for families. Take a water taxi or enjoy a bike ride around this cycle-friendly city – two great ways to do a spot of sight-seeing. Local delicacies are waiting to be savoured in high-end restaurants while regional and international street food can be found all over the city.

Explore luxury hotels in Copenhagen

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The hotel’s dazzling glass façade, with its prismatic surface that both reflects and refracts light, offers only a glimpse of the wonders housed within its twelve stories and 114 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites of 13 varying layouts. Interiors pay homage to the timeless elegance of 18th-century France while embodying the warmth and intimacy of a private, modern residence. You’ll find custom-designed furnishings and décor, expertly integrating Baccarat’s iconic crystal into every element.

Your guest journey begins at the entrance, where a four-foot-tall dual-sided fireplace symbolises  the ever-burning furnaces at Baccarat’s factory, which produce what many consider the world’s most coveted crystal. Behind, an installation of nearly 2,000 Harcourt glasses—the oldest and most iconic of Baccarat’s many designs—forms an illuminated wall that subtly flickers day and night. The hotel’s secure lobby is located on the second floor, ensuring privacy—a primary reason that the Baccarat is a celebrity favorite.

Inside, seventeen bespoke chandeliers adorn the public spaces, alongside selected pieces from Baccarat’s archival and contemporary collections, displayed in towering vitrines. The Grand Salon, with its soaring 35-foot ceiling, is a glamorous setting for lounging and enjoying Executive Chef Ashfer Biju’s inspired all-day dining menu, enhanced by live jazz twice weekly.  In this stunning space, spy the 261 leather bound guest books that are displayed in specially designed bookcases that line a library corner wall; numbered from 1764 to 2025, each reflects a year of Baccarat’s legendary history. You’ll notice that all are white, except for the 2015 book bound in Baccarat’s signature red. Its meaning? 2015 is the year the flagship hotel opened.

A corner settee clad in rich velvet is the perfect spot at which to enjoy bespoke cocktails from the hotel’s chic The Bar, a space defined by a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling, monumental chandeliers, crimson velvets, dark leathers, a black-and-white checked floor, and an art collection that spans several centuries. The ambiance, in combination with the hotel’s special tenth anniversary cocktails, is seductive, and is ideal for after-work gatherings or late-night tête-à-têtes. The special, celebratory cocktail menu, ”A Decade of Decadence,” is curated by Wine Director Saiff Hammad, and features 10 creative classics, including the Baccarat Old Fashioned, an Instagrammable pour of Baccarat Select Maker’s Mark Master Blend decanted over a cloud of house-made Angostura cotton candy. The Dust to Dust cocktail is a smoky wonder, featuring Brown Butter Washed Bushmilles, Giffard Banane du Bresil, Faccia Brutto Nocino and Cedar. The aptly named Chandelier is a mix of Hendricks, Lavender, Lemon, and Red Burgundy. And the pièce de resistance Lafayette is an intoxicating elixir of Grey Goose Altius, Massenez Roquefort Liqueur, IWA Sake, Arbikie Chili, Za’atar, and Royal Ossetra caviar. Enjoy your tipple with decadent items from the Grand Salon’s dinner menu. Think traditional caviar service, tuna tartare, a spicy lobster roll, East Coast oysters, and shrimp cocktail.

Guest rooms and suites are designed as cosmopolitan pieds-à-terre, with custom desks, sconces, and table lamps by Baccarat. Each room features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, plush four-poster beds, bespoke jacquard linens from Mascioni, and glass-enclosed showers behind hand-painted French doors. Marble bathrooms feature exclusive amenities crafted by Parisian perfumer Maison Francis Kurkdjian. (In the hotel’s premier Baccarat Suite accommodation, an expansive bathroom features Baccarat’s limited and numbered Mémoire Elephant Vase, an homage to the Maharajas’ harnessed elephants, in midnight crystal with bronze ornaments, and valued at $100K!) House water is bottled Evian, natch. And every mini bar is stocked with a red lacquered case in which a choice of eight different Baccarat glasses and stemware are proffered as delivery systems for the array of deluxe spirits. But if stirring or shaking take too much effort, simply press the “Champagne” dial on your bedside phone, and a chilled bottle will appear nearly instantly at your door, along with two Baccarat flutes.

Beyond its crystal accents, the hotel is a haven for art, with some pieces incorporating Baccarat crystal itself. Eleven contemporary artists were commissioned to create unique statuettes using Baccarat’s iconic Harcourt glass; the artworks are displayed outside each guestroom door. The hotel’s private art collection, displayed throughout the hotel, showcases more than 100 works, including pieces from celebrated artists such as Robert Longo, Nan Goldin, Jean-Philippe Aubanel, and Meret Oppenheim.

Beneath the hotel’s entrance lies the subterranean Spa de la Mer, the only of its kind in the United States. Inspired by the brand’s signature “Miracle Broth,” the spa is a sanctuary for relaxation. An adjoining 50-foot swimming pool features canopied day beds and a 50-foot swimming pool with black-and-white tiles, evoking the feel of a sunken ballroom.

Simply put, the concept of hospitality is redefined at The Baccarat Hotel New York. More than simply one of New York City’s most beautiful hospitality options, the hotel is an immersive, multisensory journey through the history and beauty of Baccarat crystal. Every corner, every detail, every facet of both the interior and exterior makes it clear that this is not simply a place at which to retreat for the night; it’s a masterpiece, as worthy of a peek as are the artworks within neighbouring MoMA.

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You don’t often find ‘sustainable’ and ‘New York City’ in the same sentence. Among the hundreds of glowing adjectives I could use to describe the heaving metropolis, some less charitable options could be gritty and overwhelming. It’s scarce and welcomed to find an oasis away from the commotion, especially one that brings nature to the forefront. In fact, no matter where you are in the world, luxury hotels that are genuinely committed to responsible practices are hard to come by. Enter: 1 Hotel Central Park, a beacon of environmental stewardship in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. American magnate Barry Sternlicht debuted the property in 2015, wanting to curate a mission-driven luxury lifestyle hotel brand with an emphasis on sustainability, and it has since become a go-to destination for the eco-conscious traveller.

Location and Ambiance

A flora-enveloped pillar amidst the bustling cityscape, 1 Hotel stands out against its urban backdrop. After stepping through the front doors (made from 1,600 reclaimed locust branches woven by Queen’s artist Charlie Baker), there’s no sleek, expansive foyer typical of a premium hotel. Instead, the lobby mirrors the earthy tone and economical use of space seen throughout the hotel. The staff who greet you are friendly but casual. You might find this either refreshing or disarming, depending on whether you enjoy the ceremonious service of many upscale hotels. Naturally, the decor is wood-heavy, making it feel like you’re in New York’s trendiest treehouse with antique barn wood flooring and a reclaimed oak ceiling. The informality of the staff, coupled with the size of the space and organically inspired design, creates a relaxed and lively atmosphere. 

A stone’s throw from the iconic Central Park, you’re in a prime location and an ideal starting point for exploring the charms of midtown, including The Museum of Modern Art, Carnegie Hall and the shops on Fifth Avenue. Overall, there’s a buzz in the vibrant communal areas of the hotel that echo the excitement and pace of the city, further establishing the private rooms as peaceful hideaways.

Rooms 

You can choose from 234 guest rooms and suites, with 22 different options ranging from the 209-square-foot Queen Alcove Room to the palatial 1455-square-foot Two-Bedroom Elm House Suite. The City Lounge King room, where I stayed, is ideal for a solo stay or travelling in a couple. The room extends over the city streets with a window-nook daybed, offering views of the Manhattan skyline. Sustainably sourced bedding, recycled materials, and in-room greenery, create a sanctuary that brings the outside world in. When sunlight pours in through the windows, the reclaimed wood from local water towers, painted brick walls, and accents of blackened steel and copper light up, making the space feel homespun and authentically New York.

The focus on wellness and responsible practices extends to all finishing touches; the in-room offerings from the “Goodthings Minibar” are health-focused and 30% locally sourced. The bath amenities, infused with the brand’s signature blend of geranium, lavender, peppermint, and tonka, are in collaboration with Certified B Corporation, Bamford. Merging the urban soul of New York with a serene, natural aesthetic, every detail is designed to provide a rejuvenating retreat. 

I’d be remiss not to mention the jewel in the crown of the establishment: the Park Penthouse. Unveiled in 2023 and soaring 19 floors above the New York cityscape, it was designed as a one-of-a-kind experience that marries grandeur with the natural world. Nuanced touches showcase sustainable craftsmanship and support local artisans, while more than 3,000 thriving plants live within the indoor/outdoor space. The botanically-inspired haven has three expansive suites, two guest rooms and an outdoor terrace spanning 2,871 square feet with 1,201 square feet of outdoor space. For those wishing to significantly dial up the luxury, this is where to do it. 

Sustainable Luxury

The ethos of 1 Hotel is infused with nature, as is the very fabric of the building. A staggering 36,000 ivy plants adorn its exterior, each living in a recycled pot and producing oxygen, absorbing greenhouse gasses, reducing the surface temperature of the building in the summer, and insulating it in the winter. Inside, there are 5,000 living plants intentionally situated to remind you of the feeling of being

in Central Park. The hotel’s LEED Silver Certification is a testament to its commitment to the environment, underscored by its energy-efficient systems.

The team clearly has sustainability at the forefront of their minds, and they encourage guests to follow suit. To remind guests to be mindful of water usage, five-minute hourglass timers are installed in the showers. The wood for the timers is again reclaimed from water towers and affixed to a salvaged Bald Cypress (it’s a type of tree, I had to Google it) plinth from the Florida Wetlands. According to 1 Hotel,  these shower timers can save as much as 34 litres per shower for the average guest. Throughout the room and hotel, there are prompts to keep the planet in mind, a valuable nudge while lodging in such a city of excess. 

Food and Drink

The hotel’s philosophy extends to its culinary offerings. Led by restauranteur icon Chef Jonathan Waxman, the on-site restaurant, Jams, offers a menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients from neighbouring farms and purveyors. Relocating from California to New York in the early 1980s, Waxman originally established Jams Restaurant on East 79th Street in 1984. He brought with him a passion for fresh, local ingredients and a relaxed, Californian approach to the formal New York culinary world, and these sensibilities are still clear in the revived Jams. 

The space itself is rustic and laid-back, seemingly stripped-back in comparison to the original Jams. Stone and wood finishings provide an inviting ambience, and, of course, 1 Hotel’s signature greenery hangs from the walls and ceiling. A combination of tables and bar seating, as well as an open kitchen, adds to its casual vibe. Staff are warm, knowledgeable and eager to share the stories behind the dishes and the practices that define the restaurant. 

Dishes at Jams are characterised by inventive sides and a careful blend of natural flavours. They celebrate the ingredients’ inherent qualities and farm-to-table freshness, with some of the richer dishes approaching elevated comfort food. The wide selection of shared plates encourages an unwound, communal dining experience. To round off the experience, there’s an impressive wine list, informed by the late Melvyn Master, esteemed sommelier, Waxman’s former partner and the “m’ in Jams (standing for Jonathan and Melvyn).

Wellness and Recreation

It will come as no surprise that holistic health and wellness are key tenets of 1 Hotel’s values. A quick, healthy snack is always within reach at 1 Hotel Central Park. The lobby farmstand is stocked with free fresh produce from local farmers and suppliers if you want to grab a bite on the go. Complimentary wellness classes such as yoga and high-intensity interval training are offered to guests, and there are yoga mats in each room for those who prefer to practise in private. 

The more unique wellness options are at-home wellness tools provided in partnership with HigherDose. These premium in-room offerings include a Sauna Blanket, which is intended to,  “increase the body’s thermal energy, enhance relaxation and promote glowing skin”, and a PEMF Mat, which “grounds you in earth’s magnetic field for a full-body reset, while Infrared’s deeply penetrating heat doubles your DOSE”. I opted to try the HigherDose PEMF Mat, intrigued by its claims to ease chronic pain, recover from workouts and deepen meditations. After rolling the mat out onto the bed and plugging it in, I laid down on the textured acupressure surface. There are levels from 1 to 4, each of which is supposed to mimic healing frequencies found in nature and temperature settings as the mat heats up to your desired warmth. I can only base my assertions on a few hours of use, but PEMF (standing for Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy), was certainly a relaxing and rejuvenating way to start the day.

Final Thoughts

1 Hotel Central Park is an innovative model of how luxury and sustainability can coexist. It provides an enriching stay for eco-friendly travellers, capturing the vibrant energy of New York City with a strategic balance of nature and modernity. I especially recommend this location to those who are seeking a refined stay but who struggle to fully lean into the (occasionally ostentatious) decadence of other luxury hotels. From its ivy-clad facade to its tranquil accommodations, 1 Hotel is a pioneering, mission-driven lifestyle hotel that impresses without being overbearing.

This property is included in our guide to the best hotels in New York

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Behind the limestone façade and grid-pane windows of The Whitby Hotel is an impressive celebration of art and design. Bohemian textures, colourful decor and one-of-a-kind artworks shape the hotel’s distinct personality, while its midtown location places you in the epicentre of New York’s most iconic borough. Our roaming reviewer, Arabella Peterson, experienced The Whitby firsthand – read on to discover more.

Design and Ambience

Kit Kemp, Firmdale Hotels’ co-founder and creative director, has transformed The Whitby into a visual odyssey. Kemp uses her English design perspective to forge an inspired space grounded in comfort and functionality, drawing on the elegance of London’s luxury landscape and the eccentric homeliness of the English countryside. The decor is an explosion of sumptuous, textured fabrics and intricate wallpapers, with a clear focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each space in the hotel, from the lobby to the suites, tells a unique story through bold colour schemes, contemporary art pieces, and bespoke furnishings, making every corner of The Whitby an adventure in design.

Kemp’s art-forward approach means the hotel is filled with innovative works, so it’s well worth exploring beyond your room. In the lobby, you’re greeted by Alabaster Plinths by British sculptor Stephen Cox RA, and next door, in the Whitby bar, vibrant works by Carla Kranendonk, Daniel Frost, and Nicola Clarke overlook cocktail-sipping patrons. But the Pièce de résistance, in my opinion, is Maarten Baas’ Real Time Grandfather Clock, a conceptual yet utilitarian piece that embodies The Whitby’s delicate balance of quirkiness and practicality.

Read our guide to the best luxury hotels in New York City

Rooms

With 86 individually styled bedrooms and suites spread over 16 floors, no two rooms are the same at The Whitby. The rooms, sporting distinctive colour schemes and signature touches are a testament to Kit Kemp’s keen eye. One of these hallmark features is the upholstered mannequin in each room, which encapsulates the room’s theme and symbolises the tailoring that goes into each design. The mannequin has become a recognised symbol of Firmdale Hotels and is even incorporated into the logo. Another quintessential element is the oversized headboards, beautifully embroidered and embellished with unique patterns.

While the ornamentation is busier than most luxury hotels, it never feels overwhelming. Every textile and interior accent, though varied, compliments the next. Soaring roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows also contribute to this sense of balance, with sunlight brightening and opening up the rooms. Beyond the living spaces, bathrooms are exquisitely outfitted in granite or marble, with double basins, a walk-in shower and RikRak luxury bath products.

I stayed in a One Bedroom Terrace Suite, a haven on the eighth floor boasting a private terrace with a view of 56th Street. With a separate bedroom and living room, I could completely spread out and make myself at home in this 720-square-foot chamber. The living room was a comforting sight for this jetlagged traveller, featuring a plush sofa bed with floral upholstery, two armchairs, a coffee table adorned with bespoke ceramics, curated books, and a bouquet of fresh flowers. In the corner is a record player and a collection of New York musical classics, from Frank Sinatra to Henry Manchini’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s score, a fitting accompaniment to my morning coffee and bagel. To add to the opulence, there’s a guest powder room, a handwoven rug, and a decorative fireplace that ties together the whole living quarter.

Through the adjoining door, the bedroom includes every amenity you could desire – a walk-in wardrobe, king-size bed and fully-stocked mini-bar with a collection of spirits that will satiate the most discerning connoisseurs. The bathroom is impeccably designed in white rippled marble with two basins and a deep, freestanding bathtub. Unfortunately, my trip was at the tail end of autumn, so I couldn’t fully utilise the private balcony, but in the warmer months it would be a superb spot for afternoon drinks overlooking the Manhattan skyline.

Drinking and Dining

The chromatic adventure continues into The Whitby Bar & Restaurant, where sweeping ceilings and a 30-foot pewter bar anchors a bevvy of woven baskets, ceramics and vividly upholstered settees. The adjoining orangery, bathed in natural light, provides a serene backdrop for enjoying the creative menu. Here, you’ll find a contemporary fine dining menu that blends modern American and European influences, incorporating elements of French and Italian culinary styles. Some standout dishes are the diver scallops, red wine tagliatelle, black trumpet mushrooms, red beet and port reduction and the jumbo asparagus, white polenta, warm shitake mushroom and tomato vinaigrette.

The Afternoon Tea is $75 per person or $95 with a glass of Joseph Perrier, Brut NV, a must-try, especially for British tourists craving a taste of home. An array of sandwiches, including classics like cucumber and cream cheese and egg salad with black truffle, are followed by sweet delicacies, notably pecan pie with whipped cream and eggnog tiramisù. All this is paired with an impressive selection of speciality teas.

Read our guide to the best luxury hotels near Times Square

Unique Offerings

The Whitby’s commitment to culture extends beyond visual art, as evident through the “Voices of New York” series, which showcases new and established local vocalists performing every Saturday at The Whitby Bar. This live music offering adds an energetic layer to the hotel’s ambience as strains of bossa nova, jazz, blues, broadway, and cabaret float through the bar. If you’re the bookish type, there’s a reading room with over 2,500 books, which can be used as a quiet workspace or a private dining room. The 24/7 gym is equipped with state-of-the-art treadmills, spin bikes and ellipticals; utilise the same-day laundry service for your post-workout kit.

Location

Located on West 56th Street at 5th Avenue, The Whitby offers access to some of New York’s most iconic attractions. By day, there’s a sense of dynamism in the area, characterised by a mix of tourists, business professionals, shoppers and culture enthusiasts. Retail stores, from high-end boutiques to the flagship shops of Fifth Avenue, are abuzz and cultural landmarks like The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Rockefeller Center, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral draw in bustling crowds.

As evening falls, throngs of tourists thin out and the area becomes more subdued, but the nearby upscale restaurants and bars come to life, attracting visitors and locals. Some must-try neighbourhood mainstays are Trattoria Dell’Arte, La Grande Boucherie and The Consulate Midtown. If live music is your bag, don’t miss a visit to Carnegie Hall, where world-class orchestras have performed for 130 years. Stroll for 10 minutes, and you’ll find the art-deco marvel Radio City Music Hall, where you can catch a live show – for those travelling during the holidays, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an iconic musical that has been running since 1933.

Between the sprawling Central Park, glamorous Broadway Theatres and eclectic Times Square, staying at The Whitby is ideal for ticking some essential activities off your New York bucket list.

Final thoughts

The Whitby Hotel takes personalisation to a new level, delivering an endlessly inviting home away from home that feels more residential than corporate. Elements of traditional English design with vivid imagination and unconventional flair make this a gem in the crown of New York’s commercial hub.

The post The Whitby Hotel – Review appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

In the pulsing heart of Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, Gansevoort is a flagship of luxury and style. Since opening its doors in 2004, this iconic hotel has witnessed and contributed to the transformation of its surrounding neighbourhood from an industrial hub to an energetic centre of fashion, design, and the arts. Aware of its recent renovation completed in 2020, our roaming reviewer, Arabella Peterson, was keen to experience Gansevoort Meatpacking firsthand as it further cements its status as a quintessential New York City experience.

Chic, Contemporary Rooms 

Gansevoort’s 186 newly renovated rooms blend comfort and sophistication, available in variations on Superior, Deluxe or Terrace. For those opting for a suite, you have 23 options, including the 500-square-foot Manhattan Suite, featuring a step-out Juliet balcony ideal for soaking in the Hudson River vistas. 

I stayed in a Grand Deluxe Room, an admittedly lavish option for a solo traveller that would suit a couple perfectly. Between the high ceilings, Egyptian cotton linens and the comfortable lounge nook, every aspect of comfort was well accounted for. The room was equipped with a Lululemon Studio Mirror for in-room workouts, which I wish I could say I took advantage of. Instead, my focus was on the other amenities, including an LCD flat-screen TV, the lush Grown Alchemist bathroom products and a well-stocked mini-bar.

I was impressed by the measured industrialism achieved through the recent renovation. Considering the building’s past, it would have been easy to overemphasize industrial features. Instead, the interior design and decor is a harmonious blend of contemporary elegance with city-inspired elements that preserve the area’s distinct urban fabric. Clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic are punctuated by nods to a factory-like style, making the space both cutting-edge and welcoming. With a picturesque tableau of the sun setting over the cobblestoned streets outside the bay windows, you can fall further in love with the downtown district from the comfort of your room.  

The Poliform Penthouse 

If it’s unbridled extravagance you’re after, the Poliform Penthouse is the pinnacle of luxury at the hotel. I was lucky enough to take a tour of the hotel that included the Penthouse, and its vibrancy and magnitude blew me away. At 1,700 square feet with 30-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and works from esteemed artists Frank Stella, Adi Oren, Daniel Mazzone and Mick Rock adorning the walls, you’ll feel like you’re in a modern art gallery from the moment you enter. 

The spacious room is tied together with luxurious furniture and finishes, including a rare Saharan black marble coffee table and a floor-to-ceiling fireplace accentuated by towering bookcases. Dark wood finishes, slate floors and grey-washed walls form a perfect backdrop for the artwork’s vivid colours. With a fully stocked bar and concert-quality Sonance surround sound system, it’s a space made for entertaining.

Activities and Amenities

Gansevoort boasts an impressive array of amenities and features, including a 45-foot heated outdoor pool offering rare and spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and a vibrant year-round rooftop bar. If the weather permits, you can rent a daybed and bask in premium poolside service while enjoying 360-degree views of the city fifteen stories up. 

The bar showcases a sleek glass enclosure, a brass-framed cocktail bar, and Moroccan tiled floors with a custom Italian fresco adding a unique touch. The menu, rich with coastal European flavours, features light bites and inventive cocktails, and in the dining room, blush pink marble and velvet seating complement the flourishing green terrace. The rooftop is not to be missed during your stay; make your way up there for a leisurely lunch, an evening apéritif as the sun dips, or an after-dark jazz session. 

Dining Experience

The hotel’s ground-floor restaurant, Coffee and Cocktails, is open from morning to evening. Located adjacent to the lobby and spilling onto the outdoor patio, there’s a lively buzz in the air while still providing a relaxed atmosphere. The breakfast menu contains crowd-pleasing classics, including a healthy yoghurt parfait, classic omelette and indulgent American breakfast.  Offering simple, time-honoured staples rather than decadent ensembles, the kitchen commits to consistent quality and flavour. 

In the evening, speciality cocktails elevate the eatery to new heights, showcasing favourites like the Made In Manhattan (Bacardi Carta Blanca, Cointreau, Pineapple Juice, Olive Brine), Two To Tango (Bombay Sapphire Dry Gin, Grapefruit, Tangerine, Sparking Grapefruit) and Fugazy (Arbikie Strawberry Vodka, Amaro Santoni, Martini Bitter, Port). Whether you’re seated indoors for a cosy nightcap in the colder months or outdoors for a summer tipple, Coffee and Cocktails is a vibrant environment to start and end your day. 

Art and Culture

Creativity plays a pivotal role in defining the Gansevoort Meatpacking’s unique persona. The lobby greets guests with original works by Banksy and Richard Hambleton, setting the tone for an art-centric stay. Throughout the hotel, artwork by Stephanie Klein, Olivier Weppe, and other renowned figures add depth and context, connecting you to the Meatpacking District’s rich history and evolving narrative. 

Iconic Location

Located at the intersection of Ninth Ave and 13th Street, the hotel is poised to offer an authentic experience of downtown Manhattan. Originating as a Lenape trading post, the district burgeoned into an industrial centre for meatpacking in the 19th century, and this grit and dynamic spirit still permeate the neighbourhood. Metal awnings shade the wide sidewalk as an eclectic mix of architecture peppers the Belgian block streets.

Flanked by the West Village and Chelsea to the North, Gansevoort’s prime location encourages exploration and discovery, and its proximity to major subway lines allows for venturing further afield in Manhattan and beyond. A short walk leads to the entrance of the High Line, an elevated park built on a historic freight rail that offers a unique perspective of the West Side’s plethora of culture. 

A new addition to the array of local attractions is Little Island Park, a 2.4-acre artificial island featuring a series of undulating, tulip-like concrete supports that elevate it above the river. Lush green spaces, meandering pathways, and rolling hills provide a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. 

My number-one recommendation for local sightseeing is the Whitney Museum of American Art. A five-minute stroll from the hotel, The Whitney exhibits preserves and interprets contemporary and 20th-century American art. It focuses on living artists and actively collects, displays, and supports the work of innovative and influential American figures. The museum’s design integrates outdoor terraces that offer stunning city views, and looking out over the falling autumnal leaves was a highlight of the trip.

Final Thoughts

Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC is a metropolitan oasis with a fusion of sophistication and character that reflects the area’s transition into a thriving nexus of luxury and culture. Its recent renovation skillfully pays homage to the neighbourhood’s past, which is evident in its well-appointed rooms and artistic décor. The friendly but fashionable ambience feels like a microcosm of the trendy local area, and my stay was nothing short of comfortable and indulgent. Overall, the hotel is a stylish, functional space that balances refinement with an edgy, industrial personality. 

This property is included in our guide to the best hotels in New York City

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Creating an environment that appeals to both today’s modern traveller and locals, Moxy Chelsea was developed with a collection of public spaces designed to meet the community’s dining, drinking, and co-working needs—while providing guests access to New York City at a neighbourhood level.

The newly-constructed building’s architecture riffs off the neighbourhood’s retro-industrial style and feels harmonious with its location, in the heart of the Chelsea Flower Market. The hotel blends into the lush flower shops that surround it, with a soaring three-story glass atrium revealing the vertical gardens within.

Guests enter through the overgrown Putnam & Putnam Flower Shop, designed by Yabu Pushelberg, which is envisioned as a “botanical library,” with planter boxes suspended from the 15-foot wall, reachable by a wheeled ladder. The shop is run by husbands Darroch and Michael Putnam, whose couture approach to floral arrangements over the years has made them a staple at celebrity weddings, including the recent nuptials of Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Falchuk.

Just beyond the flower shop, a bright yellow neon sign spelling out the words “MEET” and “GREET” beckons guests into Moxy’s take on the check-in area. Four butcher blocks, alluding to the nearby Meatpacking District, are dramatically suspended from the 12-foot ceiling above, acting as check-in kiosks.

The bedrooms are drenched in sunlight and feature floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows. For the design, Yabu Pushelberg replicates the clever functionality they created for Moxy Times Square, leavened with wit and humanised with a sense of craft. In all three room types — King, Double/Double and Quad Bunk — the furniture, which includes a writing desk and chair/luggage rack, can be folded up and hung up on Moxy’s signature peg wall when not in use.

Other space-saving gambits include under-bed storage and a lava-stone sink and vanity area placed outside the bathroom. Tiles in the shower stalls are printed with cheeky phrases like “SOME REGRETS” and “WILD THING,” while a bulldog-shaped beer bottle opener hangs on the door.

Additional bedroom features nod to the Flower District, like reading lamps that resemble garden lanterns and faucets that recall hose reels. Unique to Moxy Chelsea is the over-the-top MONDO Suite, an entertainment suite located on the 32nd floor. With soaring, double-height 18-foot ceilings and a wall of industrial-style windows looking out onto the Empire State Building, the room is equipped for entertaining and socialising. The suite can be combined with one or two adjoining king rooms to create a place to party and sleep.

Lightstone teamed up with Francesco Panella, owner of Antica Pesa, the legendary trattoria in Rome and its celeb-favourite counterpart in Brooklyn, and TAO Group to create new dining and drinking concepts for Moxy Chelsea. The menu at Feroce Ristorante embraces both traditional dishes and modern interpretations utilising ingredients from historic brands and small producers across Italy, as well as local purveyors in New York.

In front of the restaurant is Feroce Caffè, with glass airplane hangar-style doors that can be raised all the way up, opening the space entirely to the sidewalk, as in Italy. It also features a vintage doughnut machine that wafts tempting aromas onto the sidewalk, luring locals in off the street. The hotel entrance has its own dedicated window counter connecting to the caffè, so guests can pick up fresh-baked doughnuts and coffee as they come and go.

Panella also created the menu at Bar Feroce, an Italian snack bar and lounge offering a modern twist on traditional Roman comfort dishes, oven-fired pizzas, and classic cocktails. On Bar Feroce’s all-season, alfresco garden terrace, The Backyard, a terra-cotta oven turns out gourmet Roman-style pizzas and features a made-for-Moxy bocce drinking game.

The lobby atmosphere is enlivened by a design that reflects Moxy’s trademark cheekiness, such as classically sculpted figurines making unexpected poses, like twerking, taking selfies, and wearing sunglasses. A life-size, toga-clad Roman statue rests on a column, one arm extended so it can hold a guest’s phone and pose with them for a selfie. Throughout the lobby, ample seating options invite co-working and socialising, including modular meeting studios that morph seamlessly from daytime workplace to evening social space.

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