Nestled amidst a string of big-name hotels along Lexington Avenue, the Benjamin is one of the most stress-free luxury destinations the Big Apple has to offer. Without straying more than a few blocks from the heart of Midtown, guests here get the utmost sense of calm, thanks to a stylish but low-key lobby, blissfully quiet rooms and spacious, unflustered fitness centre.
Quick links
The hotel's brilliance is in blending the best elements of old and new; step inside and you're faced immediately with the kind of décor that cries "old New York" from top to toe. The stylish, marble-laden lobby is topped by an art-deco elevator that is a work of art in itself. Suites themselves are big on tones of beige, gold and wood and packed out with large, imposing bits of furniture. Even the outside of the building goes for a classic look, with massive wrought iron letters announcing the hotel's name. Techno-savvy
And whilst such nods to the past add atmosphere, 21st Century amenities are all taken care of, in the forms of A printer / copier / fax sits on the rooms' vast workdesks, high-speed web access is provided, and two huge-screen HD televisions will keep you entertained in the living room and bedroom areas. Deep sleep
Guests who are pillow-particular will be delighted to find that the hotel offers an intriguing range of alternative pillows to ensure that everyone gets the precise kind of rest they need; perhaps the most fascinating head-rest on offer is a NASA-designed pillow that responds to one's body temperature and adjusts itself accordingly. Any questions? Just ask the hotel's dedicated "sleep concierge" to explain. Seriously. Such determination to offer guests a peaceful night would seem to be fully in keeping with the hotel's mission of an ultra-comfortable and unhassled visit. Other amenities
Other convenient bonuses include the aforementioned fitness room, which is supremely well-equipped and would put gyms in larger and pricier hotels to shame. It's also open 24 hours, which is particularly handy for those jet-lagged businessfolk.
Still feeling stressed? The Wellness Spa should sort you out with its range of treatments and therapies. Prices are very reasonable for such a classy establishment - a full massage starts from a modest $65.
Also onsite are an elegant restaurant and very laid-back cocktail bar. Should you wish to prepare your own snacks, a small in-room kitchenette makes it easy. Location
Location-wise, the Benjamin is in a prime spot for offering the best of all worlds; whilst business travellers would be the main visitors here and will enjoy the relative calm of the location, both they and tourists would find it well-placed for all needs. The bright lights of Fifth Avenue are a couple of blocks to the west, whilst a retail-tastic stretch of Lexington Avenue to the north offers the likes of Bloomingdales and Gap in close proximity. Central Park is also a modest walk from there, and a subway stop is close on hand at 51st Street, as are a range of eateries. Details
Website: www.thebenjamin.com
Address: 125 East 50th Street
Tel: 212-715-2500
