by Maxine Albert
The legendary Waldorf=Astoria Hotel, located on Park Avenue in midtown Manhattan offers the ultimate in luxury and comfort. This New York landmark is known for its peerless service and indulgence. Guests get the royal treatment with art deco splendor, the best modern amenities and the latest technologies. Simply put, it’s the best of the best. No wonder that when Brad and Angelina come to New York with the kids, they love to stay here.
The Waldorf=Astoria was the first hotel to offer room service, which changed the future of the hotel industry. It’s hard to imagine a time when this coveted service was not available. It’s not surprising that this iconic hotel with its grand ambiance and top clientele recognized the need for the utmost in personal attention for its guests. The Waldorf=Astoria prides itself in carrying on in this tradition, today.
World renowned, this is the place to go for those seeking a true New York Experience. With its’ ideal location, guests are in walking distance of great shopping on Madison and Fifth Avenue, Broadway theaters, fine dining, Central Park, Grand Central Station and the best Midtown has to offer.
See and be seen in the busy, stately lobby which exudes the elegance and grace, identified with the Waldorf=Astoria. I spent many evenings at fabulous events held at the hotel’s Grand Ballroom. Many consider this to be the best place to welcome The New Year, in the city – dancing and celebrating the night away at this New York landmark.
The lovely rooms, with richly draped fabrics in tones of red, gold and mahogany create a warm, inviting color palette. Both the cozy deluxe room and opulent luxury suite, offer guests an unforgettable experience. The marble bathrooms have Crabtree & Penhaligon bath amenities. Bedrooms offer the utmost in comfort with the heavenly Hilton serenity bed and Touch of Down pillows.
THE WALDORF TOWERS:
On the upper floors of the Waldorf=Astoria, you’ll find the ultra posh boutique hotel, called the Waldorf Towers. This oasis, high above Manhattan, is renowned for its impeccable service and opulent amenities with residential style luxury accommodations. Its’ grace and high standards of excellence are as well known as the guests who have stayed here.
A room at Waldorf Towers recalls a more genteel era. Each room is slightly different than the next, and is furnished with antiques and reproductions befitting that time period. It is possible to stay at Waldorf Towers a dozen times and never see the same décor twice!
The feeling of Waldorf Towers is decidedly residential, offering comfortable furnishings, high ceilings, and spectacular views of the city. Since the Towers rooms occupy the 26th floor and above, guests desiring a magnificent view will not be disappointed. As you are escorted to your private room, you’ll pass photographs of your predecessors in residence. Royals, celebrities and Presidents adorn he corridor.
Luxury guest rooms feature either a separate sitting room or one oversized main room that incorporates a sitting area. Spacious suites with separate sitting room are perfect for families, couples or corporate rentals.
Waldorf Towers is for those who desire a boutique hotel experience with the amenities of a larger hotel. Delivering the sought-after New York experience in a classic, elegant hotel is what Waldorf Towers does best.
DINING:
Peacock Alley: Located in the heart of the bustling main lobby, this restaurant features a bar, discreet lounge and a private dining salon Peacock Alley offers to guests and New Yorkers apower breakfast, an a la carte lunch menu, a distinctive dinner menu of small plates and traditional selections and the famed Sunday brunch. This place is great for people watching.
Bull & Bear Steakhouse & Bar: Savor a Prime Angus Steak or enjoy a Waldorf Salad with Delicious Seafood or a naturally grown beef dish at this world renowned steakhouse.
Oscar’s Brasserie: Named for Oscar Tschirky, the maitre d’ who defined the concept of epicurean public dining, this place always feels chic. The venue is open for breakfast and lunch and offers Waldorf invented favorites such as eggs benedict and Waldorf salad, as well as great newcomers, delectable salads and the very best burger.
Sir Harry’s Lounge is the perfect place to go after dinner, have a cocktail and enjoy a Manhattan night. Don’t be surprised if you see Angelina Jolie drop by.
GUERLAIN SPA:
Experience cutting age innovation with customization, luxury and the ultimate in pampering here. Every treatment is transformed into a unique, personal occasion especially for you.A full menu of treatments and soothing therapies is offered for men and women.
FITNESS CENTER:
The fitness center, located on the nineteenth floor, adjacent to the Guerlain Spa, offers great views of Park Avenue and state of the art equipment and facilities. Tower guests enjoy 24- hour complimentary access and are provided with workout attire, fresh towels, changing areas and water bottles. Personal training is available upon request.
