We stayed at the Essex House back in March using our rewards points. I believe we spent 35K or 40K. We were there one night on our way back to Atlanta following an 8 day trip in Ireland. Since we were celebrating our 10 year anniversary, I mentioned it to the desk and they kindly upgraded us to a suite. It was a spectacular room. Lots of space, Central Park view, full bathroom with tub. It was certainly the largest room I've ever had in NYC. I'll definitely stay at Essex House again if I need to be in that part of the city.