When visitors ask me about where to stay in New York City, they almost always want to stay near Times Square. “We want to be in the center of it all”. That sounds fun, until you get here. Then you realize that being in the thick of it can actually be a bit more than you bargained for.
It’s why I like to suggest that people consider hotels a little further away from the zone, if only for a few days during their stay – maybe split up your visit between crazy time and not. You can find several hotels on my site that are great options.
I recently discovered ONE UN, which is certainly not in the thick of what tourists contemplate NYC to be, but rather showcases more of what NYC is. Formerly known as Millennium UN Plaza, ONE UN re-opened in September of 2012 unveiling the luxury renovation done to its West Tower. 439 guest rooms and 34 suites, complimentary breakfast and all-day refreshments at their deluxe Skyline Club, complimentary wi-fi and more, this hotel serves up the international flare so many visitor’s love about the Big Apple, while also providing the slower pace vibe of its neighborhood.
ONE UN is located near the East River. As a matter of fact, the hotel rooms and suites give you access to breathtaking views of the same, a coveted option for those looking for hotels stays in the crowded city. It is also located only a couple of blocks from the United Nations, a must see when visiting.
What I think visitors will most enjoy about this hotel are the views, the size of the rooms, coffee shop in the lobby, and the pool (seriously, the pool is pretty impressive for a NYC hotel). The Turtle Bay neighborhood, where the hotel is located, offers plenty of local bars and restaurants, all within walking distance.
I got to dine at Soba Totta, which serves up handmade soba and yakitori and attracts a nice Japanese crowd, which says a lot about its ability to deliver in authenticity. I had the pleasure of enjoying various dishes, all delicious and beautifully presented. Joining me was a fun group of fellow travel bloggers, in addition to the Vice President of Wine of Japan Import, Inc., Masahiro Takeda, Esq., who lead a fabulous introduction to shochu designed to complement the menu items we were served.
Masahiro Takeda, Esq.
Several tastings of shochu, great food, fun friends and Mr. Takeda’s charismatic personality made for a great evening. This experience made me hungry for more shochu and visiting some of the best shochu spots in NYC is now on my list for 2013.
Other great spots to visit in the Turtle Bay neighborhood besides the United Nations where visitors can reserve tours and learn about the organization’s work around the globe, are the Japan Society, Greenacre Park – where you can grab a bite and relax to the sounds of the waterfall there – and Peter Detmold Park where you can access views of the East River.
Of course, if you want to see other parts or town, such as the theater district in Midtown West, ONE UN is a short walk away from Grand Central Terminal and public transportation is also easily available (though I think the walk across town is a great way to take in the city sights) .
Starting rates at ONE UN start at $220 in East Tower superior rooms and $380 in West Tower deluxe rooms with breakfast included in West Tower rate. They also have beautiful two-story suites available, all of which offer incredible space and views.
Another thing to keep in mind about the views as you plan you summer travel to NYC is that there have been talks to move the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks display back to the East River. If they do return to the East River then guests of ONE UN will have access to a pretty spectacular show. Inquire with the hotel upon status of this decision still in the works!
A full list of facilities includes the only indoor tennis court in any New York City hotel and a swimming pool on the 27th floor. In 2013 ONE UN will debut Ask Alfred, a family/children’s program, a new restaurant, and a new look in its main lobby. East Tower renovations will commence at the end of 2013. The hotel houses a museum-worthy textiles collection framed throughout the public spaces and rooms. Skyline and East River views are best on 28th to 40th floors. For more information and to make reservations, please visit http://www.millenniumhotels.com/oneunnewyork/.
Thank you to ONE UN and their partners for this complimentary experience and wonderful NYC night!
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