Disgraceful service for a world class city.
I stayed at the Helmsley Park Lane for 4 nights in November this year. The room was fine, very dated and not at all functional with a drippy shower but exactly what you would expect being so close to central park, a tourist trap basically. The stay was fine, one of the receptionists Christy was lovely, very welcoming and friendly, the others, unless you were a Raj, couldnt give a toss what you needed and wanted and would regularly pick up a ringing phone when they saw you walk to reception. My BIGGEST issue with this hotel was that they charged by credit card with nearly $400 the day we left the hotel. This charge was a complete error as they have now confirmed and on seeing it on my return from NY, I called the hotel and emailed them immediately. First time I called, I got told accounts werent in but they took a message. This happened for 3 days. I then emailed again, still to this date not go a reply. After a week of chasing, I spoke to a guy who told me "its fine, I sent the money back and it should be with you in 10 days...." no apology, nothing... except it WASNT in my account in 10 days... I then sent a few more emails and called a few more times. Played telephone tennis with Nancy in accounts for 2 days before speaking to her and being told that I had signed for an extra day which was totally untrue. It took another 2 days for Nancy to finally come back and say yes, she would return the money. Its now the 18th December and I STILL havent got my money back. I havent had an apology or even any confirmation they will pay the finance charges on my credit card its now over a month since theyve had my money. Nancy did try her best to uncover the reasons, but there was no compensation offered or even payment for the interest gathered on my card. Aside from the location which is great for central park, I think this hotel has certainly had its day.