The hotel was built as the Gotham Hotel in 1905 and I was pleasantly surprised by how grand the classy lobby is with its dark woods. I met Daniela (the Front Office Manager) who had arranged my tour at the last moment and Patricia (from the Front Office) who had agreed to show me around. We first went to view a Deluxe Suite. Patricia explained they were last refurbished 7 years ago but we both agreed how good they still look. I guess the only problem is they lack the cutting edge technology in the Kowloon hotel suites. Next it was off to see the 22nd floor gym and pool. The pool is a real asset for a Manhattan luxury hotel and the gym has impressive views. I was not able to view Salon de Ning, the 23rd floor rooftop bar but New York friends love it in summer. Instead we viewed Clement, a surprisingly contemporary restaurant & bar which was designed by Yabu Pushelberg and is meant to mimic the perfect idea of a New York home with different 'rooms'. At the end of tour I donated money to Make-A-Wish and a New York 'SnowPage' joined "the gang'. We have decided to call him 'Clement', after The Hongkong & Shanghai Hotel's CEO 🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻 (5 out of 5 ‘teddies’) - Patricia was the perfect guide and it is a far more impressive hotel than I expected. People booking a luxury hotel in Manhattan, who want refined history with modern touches, should not overlook this hotel. My tip: if you stay there, pack your gym clothes & swimwear. | |