Originally Posted by
olindacat
Been looking at cash vs points for STR NY and of course I did not pay attention to the mystery % point purchase promo deadline so now I am really gonna get my butt kicked when I roll into town!! I'll check recent reviews, but has anyone stayed here last two weeks? Is everything open, and how is the staffing? I am in a bit of an igloo out here in the burbs as people wear masks, etc., but things are wide open. $1k a night seems to be the going rate there at STR, or 85k points.
Is it worth trying to use a social travel agent vs booking direct, if I do cash?
I'll post photos and more after I go. It's gotten cold I had the heat on! This, of course, makes me wonder what new variant will hit us to blow out any chance at getting a break. All the more reason to go sooner lol!
I have not stayed in the hotel within the past 2 weeks but I have been to the bar. I think they're doing OK but not amazing. In terms of staffing, I think they are fine. They kept people hired throughout the pandemic and ramped up considerably back in July. However, it's sad to see clubs and bars in EV and the LES packed with 2-hour lines while the King Cole Bar struggles to reach 75% capacity on a good night.
Are you entitled to any specialty rates (ie corporate, senior, AAA , etc)? If so, I would look carefully at the rate difference. If not, you might as well book through a preferred agent since the price will be extremely similar anyway. Currently, Virtuoso is allowing you to confirm an upgrade at the time of **booking** up 1 category.
When is your stay again? I have an upcoming staycation here relatively soon. I can take pictures and post them for your reference. Overall, New York is doing great.