When I took a friend of mine to New York City for the first time, I found Cambria Hotel Chelsea when I looked for a midtown Manhattan location. I wanted a stay near several iconic must-sees. The Cambria Hotel Chelsea is within walking distance of several. Times Square, Macy’s, Grand Central Station, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and The High Line are among the bounty.
The Cambria also delivered pluses regarding my interest in a New York vibe served with a night of comfortable slumber. With a day of much walking – eight miles at least, we were ready to relax when we checked in after 10 pm. The reception area looked a bit tucked in for the night, as in sleepy quiet, but the receptionist was at the ready to welcome us with warmth, and friendly hospitality.
As he handed me our room keys, he gave us the tip to head to the rooftop patio. During warm weather, non-rainy days, there’s a bar but we were just happy to take in the view. Despite the slight drizzle, we had company. Two women friends who met in New York City for the weekend were enjoying a bottle of wine they brought with them.
After identifying a few of New York’ iconic architectural greats, we headed back to our room. Like many of Manhattan’s hotel guest rooms, ours was on the small side. What it lacked in move about room, it made up for in style. The furniture was sleek, tasteful and streamlined. The leather headboards added an upscale ambiance. On one wall, an accent piece of art reflected the fun splashy vibe of the hall wallpaper art. The hallway was my favorite part. I loved the splashy large colorful flowers that perked up what could have been boring.
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Our room was configured so there was plenty of wardrobe and dresser storage space for our suitcases and belongings, so we didn’t trip over them. The bathroom was also modern and sleek. The tiled walk-in shower was a big welcome after a day of walking about Manhattan. A hairdryer, a small refrigerator, a microwave, an iron, ironing board and plenty of outlets were part of the amenities. Wi-Fi was good and free.
Both of us slept well. In a city that bustles, we did not hear any outside noises or other hotel guests. In the morning, I enjoyed a cup of coffee thanks to the coffee maker in the room. We also enjoyed a bit of morning TV before heading to the patio for the daytime view.
Although it was overcast, there was a terrific look at Manhattan from above street level. In warmer weather, this would be a great hangout place. The mixed yellow and red chairs reflect the hotel’s cheerful vibe, and the string of lights and planters of live plants and flowers add to the ambiance.
In the lobby at check out, the sleepiness of the night before had disappeared. Two sitting areas of bright, modern furniture picked up the colors of the large flower wall art that matched our room art and the hallway. A large wall flat screen TV and computers doubled as a place to visit, as well as a business center.
Our room was a deluxe double queen. There are also deluxe king bed rooms and a king bed suite. If you need handicapped accessible rooms, they are available as well. For the best rooms, get a higher room, but those cost more.
Room rates currently start at $229. I booked at Hotels.com, but consider booking directly with the hotel for AAA rates and deals.
As my biggest hotel shout out, I discovered I left my earrings in the room when I was in my car and heading out of town. The housekeeper found them so, I had them in my hand within minutes after I called the hotel to inquire about them.
Post and photos by Jamie Rhein
