I frequently travel and prefer staying in LHW hotels. This time, without hesitation, I opted for this particular hotel due to its LHW affiliation. Unfortunately, it failed to meet the high standards associated with LHW establishments. Despite its purported 5-star rating, it felt more like a mediocre 4-star accommodation. The hotel management was accommodating and changed my room, but the improvement was minimal.
The overall condition of the hotel left much to be desired, with dirty carpets, outdated facilities, and an ambiance more reminiscent of a basic bed and breakfast. Despite being allocated a room further from the elevators, the thin walls made every squeaky noise audible. Privacy was virtually nonexistent, as even mundane activities of neighboring guests were easily heard. The outdated and slow elevators added to the discomfort, creating an unsettling experience. The hotel's location in Times Square, while central, contributed to the excessive noise levels, making it less than ideal for a tranquil stay.
In addition to the rudimentary amenities in the room, I found myself needing to request a kettle by calling the reception. Surprisingly, upon this request, I was informed that while they could provide the kettle, obtaining tea would require a separate call to room service, with an associated cost. This experience further underscores my disappointment, as the hotel's overall set up seems far removed from the expected standards of LHW.