No brainer...Essex House.

Benjamin is an ok business hotel. I'm surprised it is Virtuoso, frankly. I've stayed there a few times and it is serviceable, but not much more. Its location is amidst a bunch of not memorable office towers.

Essex House is a classic NY hotel. It is directly on central park south...a great location. Hopefully with virtuoso youll get a park view upgrade It is also a few metres to Columbus Circle (the only spot in the world with three 3-starred Michelin restaurants at one intersection)...and also a major subway hub. The interior of the Essex house is much nicer too. Plus...when you see a picture of central park when you are back home, you'll probably see the Essex house sign standing above the park....which will bring back memories of your trip to our little town.

Please report back and let us know how you go.