Hotelchain: Library Hotel Collection
Location: New York – USA
Classification: 4 star Hotel
Official website: libraryhotel.com

The Library Hotel is rated as one of the top 5 hotels in New York city. The Library Hotel Collection has 4 hotels in New York City. And guess what, they are all rated as one of the best hotels in town. This time I explored the Library hotel. I had high expectations, but still was totally blown away by this property. Having stayed at many high end properties, this hotel was beyond words and I can’t say enough good things about this place.

First of all, the location is amazing. Right in the center of Manhattan and within walking distance to the major attractions. Still you are in a private gem with all the luxury amenities one could wish for. Guests are treated like royalty here and nothing is asked for too much here. The personal approach is highly appreciated and one of the key factors of the Library Hotel. Also, Bookmarks is a must visit when you stay at the Library Hotel. This rooftop bar is one of the best we experiences in New York! The hotel also has its own restaurant Madison & Vine.

Once I stepped in, I was greeted by the most accommodating staff who made me feel at ease right from the first second. I immediately noticed the luxurious style of this hotel. There are many elements in the hotel which refer to the library theme. Over 6000 books are available so there’s no time to get bored.

As usual at any Library Collection Hotel, there’s a “Reading room’ on the second floor with complimentary sweets and hot drinks and water throughout the day. Each night guests can enjoy a complimentary Cheese & Wine reception. It is included in all rates and is one of the highlights of the hotel. It is great to hang out and meet new friends. We had so much fun and the food was delicious.

After exploring the living room it was time to explore our room. I stayed in a deluxe room and again was very satisfied. The room had a great size for New York standards. No standard furniture here, all items is of such a high quality. I fell at home here which is unique. The room had a nice cozy sitting area with the most comfortable couch. The king sized bed was to die for.

The Library Hotel offers many in room amenities such as extra blankets, pillows, etc. but also ear plugs and a space heater. They even offer SleepPhones which are like pajamas for your ears that block noise and play soothing music. I absolutely loved it! I just had to dial 0 and a few seconds later they were happy to bring it to the room.

Bathroom is very luxurious featuring a bath tub with shower. There are plenty of luxury toiletries offered.

Turn down service is provided every night. They offer complimentary water to their guests which is the perfect way to start a comfortable night. We requested the featherbed mattress topper which we really loved. It was like sleeping on a cloud.

The next day, we started our day with a delicious breakfast on the second floor. Do note that each guest can enjoy a wonderful breakfast which is included in each rate. From fresh fruit to yummie pastries, it’s all there and we loved it. On the top floor, there’s another ‘Living room’ where you can relax and enjoy and read a good book.

It is all about service here. The staff is among the most professional and accommodating I have ever experienced.  As said before, after spending so many night at so many high end hotels in New York, it is great to still be impressed by hotels like the Library Hotel. I can’t wait to stay at another Library Collection property and will make sure to choose this hotel when I am back in town. After having stayed for ‘only’ one night, the Library Hotel is my home away from home. The place to be for a luxurious getaway in New York, I am in love…

Hotelchain: Library Hotel Collection
Location: New York – USA
Classification: 4 star Hotel
Official website: elyseehotel.com

Hotel Elysée is one of the best rated hotels in Manhattan, New York. Making part of the Library Hotel Collection, I couldn’t wait to explore and experience the hotel. The location couldn’t be better, it is located in a very interesting spot in Manhattan. 5^th avenue is only a few steps away and also Central Park is within walking distance. I truly was blown away by the top notch service and overall quality. From the beginning to the last second, everything felt right here. Again, Hotel Elysée is currently rated as one the best hotels in town and I can easily see why…

The hotel building is just stunning. Hotel Elysée has been a hotel since 1926. It actually is one the oldest hotels in town. I almost couldn’t believe my eyes when entering this hotel. It did feel like entering a small palace … They did keep some of the original constructions such as the wonderful staircase which is absolutely gorgeous. With only 100 rooms, Hotel Elysée is able to offer a personalized service which is pretty unique here in New York.

Staff was very kind and made us feel welcome. What I liked here was the personal check-in. My key was handed in just seconds. Very professional. Usual hotel services were explained in a very kind way.

Each room at Hotel Elysée is luxuriously appointed and has everything I could wish for. The rooms, even the ‘standard’ rooms are very large with high ceilings and a classy interior. The Deluxe Room I stayed had the most comfortable couch and an oversized working desk. The bed was one of the best beds I have ever slept in! It was enormous and the bed linen were of an excellent quality. Our room even had a large balcony offering stunning views over New York. It was great to be able to sit outside and enjoy the winter sun.

Bathroom featured a bath tub with a wonderful shower and single sinks. Some very nice details I appreciated in particular were the golden touches. Again, it made me feel like staying in a palace. Complimentary fancy toiletries were provided. As usual at any Library Collection Hotel turndown service is provided.

Hotel Elysée also has a few Presidential Suites. Each decorated in a very elegant and glamorous way. I did visit one and was really impressed!

The personal approach here is of a high level. Each staff member I met was very kind and professional. You never feel uncomfortable here while staff is serving you. It feels very naturally which means the service level is of an unseen level.

In the afternoon I was pleased to experience the living room at Hotel Elysée. Complimentary snacks and drinks are provided here all day long. It is a very nice place to hang out with comfy couches and soft music playing all over the place. The décor is classic and the whole place was very well maintained. Each day – from 5pm to 8pm – it’s wine & cheese o’clock. Complimentary wine and snacks are offered. We enjoyed it very much.

Breakfast at Hotel Elysée is served in the living room at the second floor. The small buffet breakfast has something to offer for anyone! I really liked their freshly toasted bagels which tasted excellent! Thumbs up!

Hotel Elysée is one of a kind! This gorgeous grand hotel has a prime location and offers high quality accommodation and services! I loved every second of my stay here. Highly recommended!