Mandarin Oriental - New York
Aug 2, 2012, 3:37 pm
#61
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: YVR
Programs: AC, BA
Posts: 137
Just checked in this afternoon. I was upgraded to a Central Park view room on the 47th floor. The view of Central Park, bordered by 5th Avenue and Central Park South is a great view.
There is a great view of the new future Park Hyatt on 57th between 6th and 7th.
More observations to follow......
There is a great view of the new future Park Hyatt on 57th between 6th and 7th.
More observations to follow......
Aug 2, 2012, 6:22 pm
#62
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Enroute to ? & likely flying in ' A ':)
Programs: TPPS, UA, EK ...; Marriott BONVOY , HH, GP, GC..
Posts: 4,227
Aug 2, 2012, 8:02 pm
#63
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: YVR
Programs: Hilton*D, Marriott*LG, Hyatt*G
Posts: 6,268
The room size is adequate. The expanse of the park is blocked by the Trump. However, I think the best view is the park bordered by 5th Avenue and Central Park South.
Aug 17, 2012, 6:41 pm
#65
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: YVR
Programs: AC, BA
Posts: 137
Thoughts on MONYC
I stayed at MONYC for 3 nights at the beginning of August and wanted to share my impressions of the flagship MO property in America.
Arrival A few weeks before arrival I contacted the concierge to arrange a limo from JFK for $250. After the immigration formalities, I was promptly met by a representative and escorted to a Mercedes S-class for the hour drive into Manhattan. Upon arriving at the hotel, no bell staff offered any assistance (a constant problem though out my stay) so I was left to my own devices to haul my luggage up to the 35th floor lobby.
Check-in The check-in staff were some of the best employees at this hotel. Very friendly and genuine. Always addressed me by name and would enquire about my stay anytime I was walking though the lobby. As I arrived at the hotel around 9am the room wasn't ready, however, they were able to store my bags. A few hours later, I was able to get the keys to my room. The reception staff gave me a brief tour of the hotel facilities before escorting me to the elevators. They provide a complimentary in-room tea service at arrival, which was a nice touch.
Room I booked a Premier Central Park view room, which was located on the 51st floor. The room could be described as understated luxury. Very high quality fixtures intermixed with oriental artifacts and original artwork. The colour palette was predominately gold and black. Floor to ceiling windows provided an incredible view of Columbus Circle and Central Park (framed by Central Park S and 5th Ave). While the Trump tower blocks partially blocks the park, the juxtaposition between Central Park and the Manhattan skyline makes for a great view. The bathroom contained a single vanity, bathtube, and rain shower. Great water pressure, however, there were some drainage issues. Bathroom amenities were Red Flower. Housekeeping was twice daily and very discreet. I left the room for 30 mins one morning for a coffee and when I returned everything was made up. They even neatly arranged my toothbrush on a towel. Kudos.
Concierge I used to concierge for a few dinner and show reservations. Very professional and prompt. They always provided a print out with the address of the restaurant, which was very helpful.
Lobby Lounge I have never encountered more indifferent and slow staff at a 5* hotel. I'm obviously not the only one because, it seemed like everybody else there was also complaining. Drinks take a minimum of 20 minutes to appear. I ordered the Dim Sum bento box one evening and was impressed with the quality. However, the service, or lake thereof, is what really lets the LL down. In the evening they reserve a number of tables for hotel guests. This was a nice perk as lots of people were queuing for a table.
MOBar A total 180 from the LL. Great drinks and great service. Highly recommended this bar for after dinner cocktails. Great ambience.
Fitness Centre/Pool What an incredible facility! Gorgeous 75-ft pool with views of the Hudson River. Never busy and staff even provided us with a volleyball. Modern equipment in the fitness centre and nice view of the Time Warner Centre. You even have a choice of Smart, Fiji, or lemon-infused water! There was a dry sauna, unfortunately, no steam room. The facilities were only open until 9pm. It would be nice for at least the gym to have more liberal hours.
Check-out Very efficient. There was a rogue minibar charge on the folio, but they had no problem removing it. As our flight was not until later in the evening, the hotel was able to store our bags and provided access to the fitness centre allowing us to freshen up before the journey to the airport.
Misc The hotel provided us with a picnic in Central Park. It contained 8-10 different asian-inspired foods and made for a great afternoon. Highly
recommended.
Final Thoughts Overall, I had a fantastic stay at the MONYC. It's glamorous, but not in a glitzy way. However, the hotel desperately needs to improve the lower lobby and Lobby Lounge as the staff are simply indifferent. Nevertheless, this hotel exceeded my expectations and is probably one of the best in North America. I would return next time I'm in NYC.
Arrival A few weeks before arrival I contacted the concierge to arrange a limo from JFK for $250. After the immigration formalities, I was promptly met by a representative and escorted to a Mercedes S-class for the hour drive into Manhattan. Upon arriving at the hotel, no bell staff offered any assistance (a constant problem though out my stay) so I was left to my own devices to haul my luggage up to the 35th floor lobby.
Check-in The check-in staff were some of the best employees at this hotel. Very friendly and genuine. Always addressed me by name and would enquire about my stay anytime I was walking though the lobby. As I arrived at the hotel around 9am the room wasn't ready, however, they were able to store my bags. A few hours later, I was able to get the keys to my room. The reception staff gave me a brief tour of the hotel facilities before escorting me to the elevators. They provide a complimentary in-room tea service at arrival, which was a nice touch.
Room I booked a Premier Central Park view room, which was located on the 51st floor. The room could be described as understated luxury. Very high quality fixtures intermixed with oriental artifacts and original artwork. The colour palette was predominately gold and black. Floor to ceiling windows provided an incredible view of Columbus Circle and Central Park (framed by Central Park S and 5th Ave). While the Trump tower blocks partially blocks the park, the juxtaposition between Central Park and the Manhattan skyline makes for a great view. The bathroom contained a single vanity, bathtube, and rain shower. Great water pressure, however, there were some drainage issues. Bathroom amenities were Red Flower. Housekeeping was twice daily and very discreet. I left the room for 30 mins one morning for a coffee and when I returned everything was made up. They even neatly arranged my toothbrush on a towel. Kudos.
Concierge I used to concierge for a few dinner and show reservations. Very professional and prompt. They always provided a print out with the address of the restaurant, which was very helpful.
Lobby Lounge I have never encountered more indifferent and slow staff at a 5* hotel. I'm obviously not the only one because, it seemed like everybody else there was also complaining. Drinks take a minimum of 20 minutes to appear. I ordered the Dim Sum bento box one evening and was impressed with the quality. However, the service, or lake thereof, is what really lets the LL down. In the evening they reserve a number of tables for hotel guests. This was a nice perk as lots of people were queuing for a table.
MOBar A total 180 from the LL. Great drinks and great service. Highly recommended this bar for after dinner cocktails. Great ambience.
Fitness Centre/Pool What an incredible facility! Gorgeous 75-ft pool with views of the Hudson River. Never busy and staff even provided us with a volleyball. Modern equipment in the fitness centre and nice view of the Time Warner Centre. You even have a choice of Smart, Fiji, or lemon-infused water! There was a dry sauna, unfortunately, no steam room. The facilities were only open until 9pm. It would be nice for at least the gym to have more liberal hours.
Check-out Very efficient. There was a rogue minibar charge on the folio, but they had no problem removing it. As our flight was not until later in the evening, the hotel was able to store our bags and provided access to the fitness centre allowing us to freshen up before the journey to the airport.
Misc The hotel provided us with a picnic in Central Park. It contained 8-10 different asian-inspired foods and made for a great afternoon. Highly
recommended.
Final Thoughts Overall, I had a fantastic stay at the MONYC. It's glamorous, but not in a glitzy way. However, the hotel desperately needs to improve the lower lobby and Lobby Lounge as the staff are simply indifferent. Nevertheless, this hotel exceeded my expectations and is probably one of the best in North America. I would return next time I'm in NYC.
Last edited by allstar_yvr; Aug 18, 2012 at 12:14 pm
Aug 17, 2012, 9:34 pm
#66
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 983
I stayed at MONYC for 3 nights at the beginning of August and wanted to share my impressions of the flagship MO property in America.
Arrival A few weeks before arrival I contacted the concierge to arrange a limo from JFK for $250. After the immigration formalities, I was promptly met by a representative and escorted to a Mercedes S-class for the hour drive into Manhattan. Upon arriving at the hotel, no bell staff offered any assistance (a constant problem though out my stay) so I was left to my own devices to haul my luggage up to the 35th floor lobby.
Check-in The check-in staff were some of the best employees at this hotel. Very friendly and genuine. Always addressed me by name and would enquire about my stay anytime I was walking though the lobby. As I arrived at the hotel around 9am the room wasn't ready, however, they were able to store my bags. A few hours later, I was able to get the keys to my room. The reception staff gave me a brief tour of the hotel facilities before escorting me to the elevators. They provide a complimentary in-room tea service at arrival, which was a nice touch.
Room I booked a Premier Central Park view room, which was located on the 51st floor. The room could be described as subtle elegance. Very high quality fixtures intermixed with oriental artifacts and original artwork. The colour palette was predominately gold and black. Floor to ceiling windows provided an incredible view of Columbus Circle and Central Park (framed by Central Park S and 5th Ave). While the Trump tower blocks partially blocks the park, the juxtaposition between Central Park and the Manhattan skyline makes for a great view. The bathroom contained a single vanity, bathtube, and rain shower. Great water pressure, however, there were some drainage issues. Bathroom amenities were Red Flower. Housekeeping was twice daily and very discreet. I left the room for 30 mins one morning for a coffee and when I returned everything was made up. They even neatly arranged my toothbrush on a towel. Kudos.
Concierge I used to concierge for a few dinner and show reservations. Very professional and prompt. They always provided a print out with the address of the restaurant, which was very helpful.
Lobby Lounge I have never encountered more indifferent and slow staff at a 5* hotel. I'm obviously not the only one because, it seemed like everybody else there was also complaining. Drinks take a minimum of 20 minutes to appear. I ordered the Dim Sum bento box one evening and was impressed with the quality. However, the service, or lake thereof, is what really lets the LL down. In the evening they reserve a number of tables for hotel guests. This was a nice perk as lots of people were queuing for a table.
MOBar A total 180 from the LL. Great drinks and great service. Highly recommended this bar for after dinner cocktails. Great ambience.
Fitness Centre/Pool What an incredible facility! Gorgeous 75-ft pool with views of the Hudson River. Never busy and staff even provided us with a volleyball. Modern equipment in the fitness centre and nice view of the Time Warner Centre. You even have a choice of Smart, Fiji, or lemon-infused water! There was a dry sauna, unfortunately, no steam room. The facilities were only open until 9pm. It would be nice for at least the gym to have more liberal hours.
Check-out Very efficient. There was a rogue minibar charge on the folio, but they had no problem removing it. As our flight was not until later in the evening, the hotel was able to store our bags and provided access to the fitness centre allowing us to freshen up before the journey to the airport.
Misc The hotel provided us with a picnic in Central Park. It contained 8-10 different asian-inspired foods and made for a great afternoon. Highly
recommended.
Final Thoughts Overall, I had a fantastic stay at the MONYC. It's glamorous, but not in a glitzy way. However, the hotel desperately needs to improve the lower lobby and Lobby Lounge as the staff are simply indifferent. Nevertheless, this hotel exceeded my expectations and is probably one of the best in North America. I would return next time I'm in NYC.
Arrival A few weeks before arrival I contacted the concierge to arrange a limo from JFK for $250. After the immigration formalities, I was promptly met by a representative and escorted to a Mercedes S-class for the hour drive into Manhattan. Upon arriving at the hotel, no bell staff offered any assistance (a constant problem though out my stay) so I was left to my own devices to haul my luggage up to the 35th floor lobby.
Check-in The check-in staff were some of the best employees at this hotel. Very friendly and genuine. Always addressed me by name and would enquire about my stay anytime I was walking though the lobby. As I arrived at the hotel around 9am the room wasn't ready, however, they were able to store my bags. A few hours later, I was able to get the keys to my room. The reception staff gave me a brief tour of the hotel facilities before escorting me to the elevators. They provide a complimentary in-room tea service at arrival, which was a nice touch.
Room I booked a Premier Central Park view room, which was located on the 51st floor. The room could be described as subtle elegance. Very high quality fixtures intermixed with oriental artifacts and original artwork. The colour palette was predominately gold and black. Floor to ceiling windows provided an incredible view of Columbus Circle and Central Park (framed by Central Park S and 5th Ave). While the Trump tower blocks partially blocks the park, the juxtaposition between Central Park and the Manhattan skyline makes for a great view. The bathroom contained a single vanity, bathtube, and rain shower. Great water pressure, however, there were some drainage issues. Bathroom amenities were Red Flower. Housekeeping was twice daily and very discreet. I left the room for 30 mins one morning for a coffee and when I returned everything was made up. They even neatly arranged my toothbrush on a towel. Kudos.
Concierge I used to concierge for a few dinner and show reservations. Very professional and prompt. They always provided a print out with the address of the restaurant, which was very helpful.
Lobby Lounge I have never encountered more indifferent and slow staff at a 5* hotel. I'm obviously not the only one because, it seemed like everybody else there was also complaining. Drinks take a minimum of 20 minutes to appear. I ordered the Dim Sum bento box one evening and was impressed with the quality. However, the service, or lake thereof, is what really lets the LL down. In the evening they reserve a number of tables for hotel guests. This was a nice perk as lots of people were queuing for a table.
MOBar A total 180 from the LL. Great drinks and great service. Highly recommended this bar for after dinner cocktails. Great ambience.
Fitness Centre/Pool What an incredible facility! Gorgeous 75-ft pool with views of the Hudson River. Never busy and staff even provided us with a volleyball. Modern equipment in the fitness centre and nice view of the Time Warner Centre. You even have a choice of Smart, Fiji, or lemon-infused water! There was a dry sauna, unfortunately, no steam room. The facilities were only open until 9pm. It would be nice for at least the gym to have more liberal hours.
Check-out Very efficient. There was a rogue minibar charge on the folio, but they had no problem removing it. As our flight was not until later in the evening, the hotel was able to store our bags and provided access to the fitness centre allowing us to freshen up before the journey to the airport.
Misc The hotel provided us with a picnic in Central Park. It contained 8-10 different asian-inspired foods and made for a great afternoon. Highly
recommended.
Final Thoughts Overall, I had a fantastic stay at the MONYC. It's glamorous, but not in a glitzy way. However, the hotel desperately needs to improve the lower lobby and Lobby Lounge as the staff are simply indifferent. Nevertheless, this hotel exceeded my expectations and is probably one of the best in North America. I would return next time I'm in NYC.
Also, your observations regarding the Lobby Lounge are 100% spot on. As a New York native, I was honestly embarrassed to have brought guests from out of town there.
Aug 18, 2012, 12:50 pm
#67
Join Date: Feb 2003
Programs: AC SE 2MM, too many others
Posts: 1,416
Funny, I'm currently at the MO SF and would echo all of your comments regarding the NY property. I"ll post a review next week.
Also, your observations regarding the Lobby Lounge are 100% spot on. As a New York native, I was honestly embarrassed to have brought guests from out of town there.
Also, your observations regarding the Lobby Lounge are 100% spot on. As a New York native, I was honestly embarrassed to have brought guests from out of town there.
Aug 18, 2012, 1:38 pm
#68
Moderator: Luxury Hotels and FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Palo Alto, California,USA
Posts: 17,897
One stay at the MO and I felt sufficiently poorly treated by staff (everywhere, including at the front desk) so that whenever I stay in the Columbus Circle area, I now go for the Trump.
Aug 18, 2012, 2:30 pm
#69
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: USA
Programs: AA2, DL2, Amtrak2, US2, SPG1, MAR2
Posts: 2,550
I stayed at MONYC for 3 nights at the beginning of August and wanted to share my impressions of the flagship MO property in America.
Arrival A few weeks before arrival I contacted the concierge to arrange a limo from JFK for $250. After the immigration formalities, I was promptly met by a representative and escorted to a Mercedes S-class for the hour drive into Manhattan. Upon arriving at the hotel, no bell staff offered any assistance (a constant problem though out my stay) so I was left to my own devices to haul my luggage up to the 35th floor lobby.
Check-in The check-in staff were some of the best employees at this hotel. Very friendly and genuine. Always addressed me by name and would enquire about my stay anytime I was walking though the lobby. As I arrived at the hotel around 9am the room wasn't ready, however, they were able to store my bags. A few hours later, I was able to get the keys to my room. The reception staff gave me a brief tour of the hotel facilities before escorting me to the elevators. They provide a complimentary in-room tea service at arrival, which was a nice touch.
Room I booked a Premier Central Park view room, which was located on the 51st floor. The room could be described as understated luxury. Very high quality fixtures intermixed with oriental artifacts and original artwork. The colour palette was predominately gold and black. Floor to ceiling windows provided an incredible view of Columbus Circle and Central Park (framed by Central Park S and 5th Ave). While the Trump tower blocks partially blocks the park, the juxtaposition between Central Park and the Manhattan skyline makes for a great view. The bathroom contained a single vanity, bathtube, and rain shower. Great water pressure, however, there were some drainage issues. Bathroom amenities were Red Flower. Housekeeping was twice daily and very discreet. I left the room for 30 mins one morning for a coffee and when I returned everything was made up. They even neatly arranged my toothbrush on a towel. Kudos.
Concierge I used to concierge for a few dinner and show reservations. Very professional and prompt. They always provided a print out with the address of the restaurant, which was very helpful.
Lobby Lounge I have never encountered more indifferent and slow staff at a 5* hotel. I'm obviously not the only one because, it seemed like everybody else there was also complaining. Drinks take a minimum of 20 minutes to appear. I ordered the Dim Sum bento box one evening and was impressed with the quality. However, the service, or lake thereof, is what really lets the LL down. In the evening they reserve a number of tables for hotel guests. This was a nice perk as lots of people were queuing for a table.
MOBar A total 180 from the LL. Great drinks and great service. Highly recommended this bar for after dinner cocktails. Great ambience.
Fitness Centre/Pool What an incredible facility! Gorgeous 75-ft pool with views of the Hudson River. Never busy and staff even provided us with a volleyball. Modern equipment in the fitness centre and nice view of the Time Warner Centre. You even have a choice of Smart, Fiji, or lemon-infused water! There was a dry sauna, unfortunately, no steam room. The facilities were only open until 9pm. It would be nice for at least the gym to have more liberal hours.
Check-out Very efficient. There was a rogue minibar charge on the folio, but they had no problem removing it. As our flight was not until later in the evening, the hotel was able to store our bags and provided access to the fitness centre allowing us to freshen up before the journey to the airport.
Misc The hotel provided us with a picnic in Central Park. It contained 8-10 different asian-inspired foods and made for a great afternoon. Highly
recommended.
Final Thoughts Overall, I had a fantastic stay at the MONYC. It's glamorous, but not in a glitzy way. However, the hotel desperately needs to improve the lower lobby and Lobby Lounge as the staff are simply indifferent. Nevertheless, this hotel exceeded my expectations and is probably one of the best in North America. I would return next time I'm in NYC.
Arrival A few weeks before arrival I contacted the concierge to arrange a limo from JFK for $250. After the immigration formalities, I was promptly met by a representative and escorted to a Mercedes S-class for the hour drive into Manhattan. Upon arriving at the hotel, no bell staff offered any assistance (a constant problem though out my stay) so I was left to my own devices to haul my luggage up to the 35th floor lobby.
Check-in The check-in staff were some of the best employees at this hotel. Very friendly and genuine. Always addressed me by name and would enquire about my stay anytime I was walking though the lobby. As I arrived at the hotel around 9am the room wasn't ready, however, they were able to store my bags. A few hours later, I was able to get the keys to my room. The reception staff gave me a brief tour of the hotel facilities before escorting me to the elevators. They provide a complimentary in-room tea service at arrival, which was a nice touch.
Room I booked a Premier Central Park view room, which was located on the 51st floor. The room could be described as understated luxury. Very high quality fixtures intermixed with oriental artifacts and original artwork. The colour palette was predominately gold and black. Floor to ceiling windows provided an incredible view of Columbus Circle and Central Park (framed by Central Park S and 5th Ave). While the Trump tower blocks partially blocks the park, the juxtaposition between Central Park and the Manhattan skyline makes for a great view. The bathroom contained a single vanity, bathtube, and rain shower. Great water pressure, however, there were some drainage issues. Bathroom amenities were Red Flower. Housekeeping was twice daily and very discreet. I left the room for 30 mins one morning for a coffee and when I returned everything was made up. They even neatly arranged my toothbrush on a towel. Kudos.
Concierge I used to concierge for a few dinner and show reservations. Very professional and prompt. They always provided a print out with the address of the restaurant, which was very helpful.
Lobby Lounge I have never encountered more indifferent and slow staff at a 5* hotel. I'm obviously not the only one because, it seemed like everybody else there was also complaining. Drinks take a minimum of 20 minutes to appear. I ordered the Dim Sum bento box one evening and was impressed with the quality. However, the service, or lake thereof, is what really lets the LL down. In the evening they reserve a number of tables for hotel guests. This was a nice perk as lots of people were queuing for a table.
MOBar A total 180 from the LL. Great drinks and great service. Highly recommended this bar for after dinner cocktails. Great ambience.
Fitness Centre/Pool What an incredible facility! Gorgeous 75-ft pool with views of the Hudson River. Never busy and staff even provided us with a volleyball. Modern equipment in the fitness centre and nice view of the Time Warner Centre. You even have a choice of Smart, Fiji, or lemon-infused water! There was a dry sauna, unfortunately, no steam room. The facilities were only open until 9pm. It would be nice for at least the gym to have more liberal hours.
Check-out Very efficient. There was a rogue minibar charge on the folio, but they had no problem removing it. As our flight was not until later in the evening, the hotel was able to store our bags and provided access to the fitness centre allowing us to freshen up before the journey to the airport.
Misc The hotel provided us with a picnic in Central Park. It contained 8-10 different asian-inspired foods and made for a great afternoon. Highly
recommended.
Final Thoughts Overall, I had a fantastic stay at the MONYC. It's glamorous, but not in a glitzy way. However, the hotel desperately needs to improve the lower lobby and Lobby Lounge as the staff are simply indifferent. Nevertheless, this hotel exceeded my expectations and is probably one of the best in North America. I would return next time I'm in NYC.
What did you do for breakfast?
Aug 18, 2012, 3:51 pm
#70
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Taiwan
Programs: UA, CX, BR
Posts: 718
Aug 18, 2012, 5:10 pm
#71
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: YVR
Programs: AC, BA
Posts: 137
One stay at the MO and I felt sufficiently poorly treated by staff (everywhere, including at the front desk) so that whenever I stay in the Columbus Circle area, I now go for the Trump.
What did you do for breakfast?
This seems pretty shocking to me. Asian hotels are often 24h, which is very handy for people with jetlag.
Aug 19, 2012, 3:00 pm
#72
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: NYC
Posts: 1,011
Just checked-out from staying one night.
CP View room on 47th floor. Not a fan of gold accents on bed/furniture.
Although tea/coffee were offered to be brought up after check-in, never arrived. Strange odor from clean towels. Dead bugs in the closet. A concierge who rode down in the elevator with us and had no idea what "Masa" (subject of which came up after he asked where we're headed) was/is because he's "not from around here, but from Brooklyn" (that killed me lol).
Good breakfast. Excellent spa (had a facial).
Will come back for the spa while most likely staying at Trump next time I don't feel like going home after dinner.
CP View room on 47th floor. Not a fan of gold accents on bed/furniture.
Although tea/coffee were offered to be brought up after check-in, never arrived. Strange odor from clean towels. Dead bugs in the closet. A concierge who rode down in the elevator with us and had no idea what "Masa" (subject of which came up after he asked where we're headed) was/is because he's "not from around here, but from Brooklyn" (that killed me lol).
Good breakfast. Excellent spa (had a facial).
Will come back for the spa while most likely staying at Trump next time I don't feel like going home after dinner.
Aug 19, 2012, 7:31 pm
#73
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Here, there you know how it goes.
Posts: 1,518
Dear Lord! How on Earth could an NYC concierge (esp at a supposed 5* property) not know what Masa is? Even if it wasn't in the TWC, it's one of the top 3 or 4 restaurants in the city.
SMH ...
SMH ...
Aug 20, 2012, 5:46 am
#75
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: USA
Programs: AA2, DL2, Amtrak2, US2, SPG1, MAR2
Posts: 2,550