HOTEL REVIEWS Loews Regency Hotel, New York
The Loews reopened last year after an 18-month, $100m (£65m) renovation. It was a tough task, taking classic Manhattan glam and bringing it up to date without losing its charm, but the hotel has coolly re-established itself on the Upper East Side map. The new-look lobby has art deco influences, with mirrors,
chrome, marble and a palette of black, grey and white. All 379 rooms offer a more residential-style experience, with added leisure and work spaces, plus generous bathrooms kitted out with products from Julien Farel, who oversees the salon and spa. A lot of thought has gone into appealing to both leisure and
business travellers, from the number of plug sockets and 24-hour fitness centre to free and reliable wi-fi — scarce in many US hotels. Nor have the hotel’s regulars been overlooked. The Loews’
biggest claim to fame is its ‘power breakfasts’ of the 1970s, and down in the new Regency Bar & Grill it was easy to spy some of the city’s movers and shakers in morning meetings. There might be hipper hotels in town, but for a classy, mature stay, the Loews Regency won’t disappoint. Chris Peacock
ESSENTIALS
Location: 540 Park Avenue/ 61st Street, NY 10065. Price: From $299 (£196) per
night on room-only basis. Contact:
loewshotels.com/ regency-hotel
First Hotel Copenhagen, Denmark
First Hotel Copenhagen is in a quiet area just outside the city centre, but inside it feels distinctly metropolitan. A hot pink carpet covering the marble floor leads me past a black piano and colourful Italian armchairs designed by Stefano Giovannoni to a sleek purple reception desk. Against white walls, the four-star hotel’s vibrant design feels edgy and upbeat. With large meeting and conference space, free parking and
event tailoring available, the property caters well to business travellers. However, for those on city breaks, it’s close to both the airport (10-minute drive) and the city (20-minute bus). My fourth-floor room was minimalist, with neutral tones and
colourful accents, and featured a work area, comfortable bed, speedy wi-fi and a nice panorama across the marina. Breakfast cost extra, but was well worth it. Healthy local fare
included home-made grainy bread, jams, cheese and fresh fruit. The relaxation centre was a welcome respite, with harbour views from the small gym, hot tub and sauna. Stephanie Cavagnaro
ESSENTIALS
Location:Molestien 11, 2450 Copenhagen, Denmark.
Price: Rooms from £88 a night. Contact:
firsthotels.com
40 ABTA Magazine February 2015
countrybycountry.com
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