Mandarin Oriental, New York

I booked Mandarin Oriental Manhattan through the Fine Hotels program at American Express, which came with many perks (e.g., noon check in, 4pm late check out, $100 hotel credit, upgraded room, breakfast for two). My daughter checked in and she was welcomed by name with an upgraded, Hudson River view, high floor room, jasmine tea and fruit. The breakfast for two (up to $90) was a great way to start the day. The dining room has incredible views and wide selection of healthy, savory and healthy breakfast options. The nightly turn down service with slippers, mats and treats by our bed made us feel extra special. High end amenities from the Shops at Columbus Circle (Diptyque lotion, chocolates by La Maison du Chocolat Paris). Spacious shower, double sinks, tub overlooking Hudson (with bath salts), and plush robes added to the five star experience. The Christmas decorations including letters to Santa and afternoon hot chocolate bar made our trip even more "sweet." We appreciated being able to get a snack at nearby Whole Foods Market or banana pudding at Magnolia. A five story Nordstrom is across the street too. We walked to Broadway, Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Plaza, and of course Central Park (which is across the street). Last but not least, they were offering a special - third night free, which made this hotel a little more affordable, especially right before Christmas and New Year's. This hotel stay was definitely an early Christmas present for my two daughters and me!

I stayed here for a weekend getaway after all the holiday tourists were gone and NYC took a breather. The hotel is becoming a bit outdated with wear and tear in the furnishings and in the room. Because this is an expensive five star hotel, this should not be the case. The in-room dining was, while expectedly expensive, subpar. The main restaurant was very underwhelming for a 5 star hotel and more resembled a lobby lounge (the restaurant is appropriately named the MO Lounge). The toiletries and bedding however were top notch. The only reason for paying such a high price here compared to other five star hotels in NYC is the view. We had an amazing view of Central Park which makes you want to gaze out the window 24 hours/day. We could have paid 1/2 the price at Loews Regency Hotel (which is the same level of luxury) but wouldn't of had this view. If you don't care for the view, stay at the Loews and save a few hundred dollars. Its also convenient to have a bunch of restaurants and a Whole Foods in the lobby of the building which allows you to go downstairs and get whatever fruit, beverages or snacks you want to have in your room. I am not sure I would stay here again and would actually give MO a 4.5 star rating.

We stayed at the MO and had a good time. Service was truly exceptional. As some state, the rooms are a tad outdated but not overstretched. We had a great view from our room too. Location made it easy to pop in and out of Central Park, walk to 5th ave, broadway etc. Our only gripe was breakfast seemed to be scattered and thats where the service fell short. Seems like the quality of service is so high everywhere else but F&B downstairs not quite hitting the mark with quality of food or the service in restaurants. I think we would definitely stay here again but, will consider other similar quality hotels first.

I had a two-night urban getaway and it was wonderful. The location was convenient. The room was spacious, clean and thoughtfully designed with Marvelous views. What truly stood out was the genuineness and attentiveness of the team. From Check in with Dream, to the Lounge experience with Mark, Martin, Nathaniel and Richard, every interaction was warm and welcoming. The Bar experience with Aya and Shakill was a Highlight- from the creative drinks to the thoughtful recommendations and the welcoming atmosphere. Overall, it was a memorable stay defined by care, professionalism, and authentic warmth. Thank you to the Mandarin Oriental NY team for making my visit so special.

I had the most amazing stay, amazing hospitality, amazing food, amazing view. Thank you so much to Lauren for making this process as smooth as possible, and increasing our quality of stay. She helped us check in early , as well as was very kind.