The Grand Old Lady Still Delivers
Want a modern, minimalist, efficient hotel experience? Try somewhere else. The Walforf is a charming, iconic and generally lovely hotel, but it won't be for eveyone.
The foyer looks as much like a Hotel Museum as a 21st Century hip, wireless accommodation experience, and we love that about it. The hotel is huge, so there is often a queue just to talk to someone at reception, even to collect a message.
We were shocked and delighted at the rate we got for our 7 night stay at The Walforf. Our suite was beautiful.....then next morning we saw the workers immediately outside our window - and I do mean "immediately." The Park Avenue facade is being upgraded, and suddenly the low rate was put into context. But it mattered not - there was no noise and no inconvenience. It was a delightful, warm and comfortable place to be.
Bobby delivered our luggage and gave us the rundown - stop him talking if you can, the man is a human word machine - but listen to him, for his NY wisdom is invaluable.
Internet is expensive by today's standards, but of course we signed on anyway.
Just after we arrived, a pipe broke somewhere and the water system was shut down for the entire hotel - a reminder that the Waldorf wasn't built in the last 10 years. It came back on a couple of hours later.
We had a drink at Sir Harry's (wonderful when it is quiet), buffet breakfast at Oscar's (extensive choices) and a nightcap at the Bull & Bear (the Cheescake and Red Velvet are to die for),
Midtown location means that attracions like Grand Central Station, MoMA, even Central Park are within walking distance, and downtown life is (for us, not gerat subway users) a $12 cab ride away.
As a genuine NY experience, staying at the Waldorf is right up there, and was a highlight of our time in this great city.
I could on, as may have become obvious...we would and will stay at the Walforf again, if rates permit.
Oh, one last thing - the $5 overnight shoeshine service is a brilliant service.