When my mother and I planned our trip to New York City, we knew we wanted a touch of luxury without feeling nauseated at the dip in our bank accounts. That's how we ended up at the Lotte New York Palace, a hotel where the service completely going above what we'd typically spend. Even though we opted for the lowest rate room, the 'Superior Twin,' we made a polite request for the best view possible. To our delight, the staff graciously accommodated us, and we were treated to stunning views of the cityscape. It was a perfect start to a wonderful Christmas break.
Location
Located at 455 Madison Avenue, the Lotte New York Palace Hotel places you in the heart of Manhattan. The hotel's prime location made it easy for us to explore some of New York City's top attractions. Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the iconic Fifth Avenue shopping district were just a short stroll away. Plus, if you're a fan of the TV show "Gossip Girl," staying at the Lotte NY Palace will be a dream come true. The hotel served as the fictional home of the van der Woodsen family, and it was surreal to walk through the same glamorous spaces featured in the series. It added an extra layer of excitement to our stay.
Accommodation
Our Superior Twin room, despite being the most affordable option, was nothing short of luxurious. The bathroom was a marble-clad oasis, perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. The beds were incredibly soft and comfortable, making it hard to get up in the morning! I still miss the soothing music that played on the TV in our room - it added such a nice touch to our stay.
Dining
We couldn't resist trying the hotel's classic American pancakes and coffee with cream, which were absolutely amazing. While room service was a bit pricey for us, it was worth splashing out at least a couple of times during our stay. For the rest of our meals, we ventured out to local eateries or picked up snacks from nearby supermarkets. It was the perfect balance between indulgence and practicality.
Service and Amenities
The hotel's service was impeccable. From the friendly concierge who helped us plan our days to the housekeeping staff who ensured our room was spotless, every detail was taken care of. The fitness center and spa looked incredible, though we were too busy exploring the city to make use of them this time.
What I'd Change
We did all the classic touristy stuff—visiting the Statue of Liberty, Madame Tussauds, the Empire State Building, and Central Park. While these attractions were undoubtedly worth it, next time I’d love to explore the places that more locals frequent. On our next visit, I'd plan to skip the tourist hotspots like Bubba Gump Shrimp (the food was really disappointing) and instead try out restaurants like Red Hook Tavern for great burgers and JongRo, which has been recommended by friends.
Staying at the Lotte New York Palace really made our trip to New York City. You don't have to book the most expensive room to enjoy the luxurious experience this hotel offers. From the stunning views and comfortable beds to the delicious room service and prime location, every aspect of our stay was memorable. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, I highly recommend experiencing the blend of elegance and comfort that the Lotte New York Palace provides.
