Arrival/Check-In: When I arrived at the InterContinental New York Times Square, several doormen were ready to help with luggage. I only had an overnight bag and declined assistance, proceeding directly to the front desk. The clerk greeted me warmly and told me I had been upgraded to a corner suite — a beautiful room, he said.
Guest Quarters: Stepping into the suite confirmed his words. The room felt bright and open, with three walls of large windows providing a sweeping 180-degree view of the city.
The suite was laid out in two distinct areas separated by a decorative screen. The living area featured a comfortable sofa, a flat-screen TV, and a well-sized desk with an extra outlet convenient for charging a laptop or phone. The bedroom area offered an even larger TV and a king-sized bed.
The bathroom was compact, with a single sink, but the shower was generous in size and equipped with a waterfall showerhead. Blue glass tiles provided an attractive accent, and matching blue hand towels and bath mat added a thoughtful touch of color in place of the usual white linens.
The in-room TV offered many features and an extensive menu, which made navigation a little confusing. Late that night I searched through menus looking for a sleep timer to turn the TV off. In the process I must have pressed the wrong buttons, because at checkout a pay-per-view movie charge appeared on my bill. The front desk agent noticed my surprise and, assuming I had not actually watched the movie, promptly removed the charge. I appreciated his courtesy and the quick resolution; it was an easy reminder to be more cautious with complex TV menus in future stays.
Services/Amenities: The hotel’s lounge appeared inviting, and I regretted not having time to dine at Ça Va Brasserie, the third-floor restaurant credited to Chef Todd English. The property also includes a 2,000-square-foot health and fitness center overlooking 44th Avenue, open 24 hours and equipped with modern machines. For business needs, a staffed center provides access to a computer, printer, copier and fax.
The Experience: The InterContinental New York Times Square is a strong addition to the neighborhood, thanks to its convenient location and consistently friendly staff. Everyone I encountered greeted me with a smile and offered helpful service. I would recommend this hotel to travelers seeking comfortable accommodations in the heart of the city.
InterContinental New York Times Square
300 W. 44th St.
New York, NY 10036
tel 212 803 4500
ichotelsgroup.com