New York is totally spoilt for choice when it comes to hotels. With new openings left right and centre, not to mention timeless heavyweights like The Ritz, The Waldorf and The Plaza going strong as ever, it takes a lot to stand out in Manhattan.
Luckily for Belleclaire, it has bags going on. Not only is it perfectly situated for exploring New York, it’s even an official New York City Landmark and once housed Russian revolutionary Maxim Gorky and author Mark Twain. Pretty cool hey. And if it’s the instant wow-factor you’re after – Belleclaire definitely has it. The hotel sits inside a beautiful brick building, built in an ornate beaux arts style with turrets and carved limestone gargoyles galore.
THE HISTORY
Designed by the famous Emery Roth, Hotel Belleclaire oozes history. Back in the day it was one of the most luxurious buildings in Manhattan and was once considered a skyscraper on the Upper West Side. It once served as the stomping ground for the elites of New York’s Jazz Age and was the place to be seen.
LOCATION
Excuse us for stating the obvious, but if you want to stay somewhere in New York that’s perfectly situated for exploring the city, the Upper West Side will not disappoint. And it is here that you will find hotel Belleclaire, on 250 West 77th St.
This area has everything; great restaurants, cool shops and if you’re after culture then look no further – The Lincoln Center, Columbus Circle, Central Park and The American Museum of Natural History are all within walking distance.
We always say that one of the best ways to experience a city is by foot and Hotel Belleclaire is perfectly situated for just this. You definitely get a real feel for New York strolling the sidewalks here with real Upper West Siders. This quintessential New York neighbourhood is a great place to see how New Yorkers really live outside the hustle and bustle of Midtown Manhatten. And if you’re an architecture buff you’ll find impressive rows of brownstones that will make it hard to put your camera away.
The great thing about the Upper West Side is that when staying here, you can do as much or as little as you like. You can venture into the more touristy areas or simply stay put and live like a real New Yorker (minus the fact that you’re staying in a hotel of course). Whatever you choose to do, you will not suffer from a dull moment during your stay in the Upper West Side.
STYLE & CHARACTER
The hotel is a merging of old world and contemporary Manhattan, resulting in a neo-traditional kind of vibe. This aesthetic is evident in the gorgeous lobby which has a classical elegance – see the restored 1903 mosaic tiles for a perfect example of this ethos. It’s a lovely focal point of the building where natural light from the unique 40 foot skylight floods the area, creating a bright, airy space. The colossal chandelier is pretty impressive too.
THE ROOMS
The rooms combine a classic kind of charm with contemporary comfort. They have all the necessary amenities you could want – free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with cable channels and pay-as-you-watch movies. They also have refrigerators which are super useful if you eat out and get a doggy bag (American portion sizes are sizeable, of course). If you’re looking to spend slightly more, the hotel has some gorgeous suites that are named after former guests like Mark Twain and Babe Ruth. Oh, and we loved the red tufted leather headboards – need we go on?
FOOD
Facilities are a bit thin on the ground, we must admit. You can sup on free tea and hot chocolate 24/7 and coffee and pastries are available in the morning, however there is no bar or restaurant. But turn this into an opportunity – New York is one of the foodie capitals of the world and with thousands of restaurants in Manhattan. Only the truly unadventurous would stick to hotel dining, right? Get out there and you’re sure to find something that will tickle your tastebuds.
WHY GO?
Hotel Belleclaire is a perfect choice to experience the city of New York without the silly Midtown rates. Get amongst it!
For more information and to book visit: www.hotelbelleclaire.com
IDEAL stayed as a guest of Hotel Belleclaire