pronichkin

Does anyone have any idea how Andaz stands against Thompson Central Park? Both seem to be category 6, and both impose those crazy destination fees (waived for globalists) but there's a bunch of differences. I have not stayed in either hotel yet, but trying to figure out my next stay in March.

Thompson seems to be newer and (arguably) fancier, and based on the reports in respective thread, their beds are firmer. (A big plus for me.) I also prefer the location due to the proximity to the park. However, their rooms are smaller, and lack coffee makers, and on top of all that, they don't honor TSUs. Finally, the Upper Stories sound tempting, but they're neither bookable, neither upgradable on points. So, one has to stick to basic room if determined to stay on points.

Andaz seems to have no problem with TSUs, and the rooms are bigger overall. They also have coffee makers. But based on the reports, it sounds to me that the hotel shows some wear, and is not as nice as it used to be. Also, the beds seem to be on the plushy side, which is a drawback for me.

Is there anything I'm missing here? What would you chose?

777 global mile hound

I'd say go Andaz 5th but you said you prefer firm beds in that case go Thompson
Or the Park Hyatt (pricey on rev or award).For me the rest of the Hyatt choices are a no go.To each their own though
Yes Andaz 5th is the best Hyatt Choice most things considered value wise for quality.
And while there is some serous wear on properties Its not unacceptable or awful by any means.

Kacee

I prefer the Thompson. I don't like the extraordinarily spartan decor/furnishings at Andaz 5th, nor the weird layouts in the suites (esp. the bathrooms). Location of both is very good, but as a runner it is nice to be closer to the park.

Thompson will upgrade Globalists to Studio Suite prior to arrival if available. It's a very nice room, though there is no wall separating living and sleeping spaces.

tripmaster

I was told by Globalist CSR Thompson does honor TSU but not for Upper Stories.

Im prob going to stay there Nov 13, then Andaz Nov 20. We'll see!

tripmaster

Will Globalists get upgraded to anything other than the Andaz suite at checkin?

madderlake

tripmaster in my experience, if they have it to give, then yes. If not then no. I think your chances are better if you're there for one night vs. four for example...

tripmaster

six nights! :-(

ElevatorEnthusiast

I've had the opposite experience and was told that I would have to pay for an upgrade beyond the Andaz Suite when I asked explicitly. These were 1 and 2-night stays.

Kacee

I really don't think there's a one-sized fits all answer to these types of questions. Maybe they will upgrade beyond standard suite, more likely they won't. It depends on the guest, the agent checking you in, and a whole bunch of other factors. If you set expectations based on a handful of anecdotal reports, that's a recipe for disappointment.

tripmaster

Sounds like there's no hard and fast policy; my teenage son is first to arrive so I suspect they wont give him anything. But i did reach out to the new GM, maybe he'll keep an eye out for me.

tripmaster

told exactly opposite today….

redbirdsj

Going here next month. Do any regulars have deli or pizza recommendations nearby? I realize there are like 50,000 places to eat in Manhattan but looking for some authentic NYC fare in the area that people have liked.

Jerkstore

Just get in a cab and go to Katz Deli and Prince Street Pizza.

777 global mile hound

I've grown accustomed to artificial cheese on Dominos pizza personally
Having come from Australia this past week I had to laugh when I saw a hotel serving corned beef
and someone spreading Vegemite on their corned beef sandwich.Hopefully they didn't put mayo and mustard on it too unless it could drown out the taste
If only there was a deli police to call

redbirdsj

Traveling with kids so looking for places nearby, not a 20 minute car ride away.