Jumeirah Essex House
160 Central Park S.
New York, NY 10019
212-247-0300
www.jumeirahessexhouse.com

Height of Luxury
Historic Lodging in the Big Apple

Rising high above Central Park

Those seeking an authentic luxury hotel experience need look no further than New York’s Jumeirah Essex House on Central Park. Although this property has been managed by numerous hotel groups over the years—in its last incarnation, it was two hotels in one, The St. Regis Club at the Essex House, New York and Westin Essex House on Central Park—this landmark property has maintained its original, lavish integrity.

The historic, 1931 Essex House Building overlooks Central Park, and from a distance there is something organic about its architecture, sprouting like its own breed of urban flora above the trees. But while the exterior is impressive, the experience really begins in the lobby... and what a lobby it is—antiques, marble walls, ornately molded ceilings and paintings that would make a museum proud.

With their nod to Art Deco, the rooms and suites can be playful, although they are always tasteful. There are 515 in total, furnished with reproduction French and Chippendale pieces. The ultimate accoutrements are the park views, but the basics are notable, as well. Accommodations come with high-speed Internet access, dual-line phones, DVD players on request and more. For an exclusive experience, book an Executive One Bedroom, with picturesque French doors separating the bedroom from the living space.

The stunning lobby

While many of the city's classic hotels have painstakingly maintained their trademark distinguished styles, they have a hard time competing with the newcomers when it comes to modern amenities. They rely, instead, on their reputations. Not so the Jumeirah Essex House. For the 21st century traveler, this hotel has a fitness center, spa and excellent business facilities. There is a Grand Salon (for up to 550), a Petit Salon for smaller gatherings, an executive boardroom and a full business center. The concierge is available round the clock, just in case you want to have a 3 a.m. chat about Fifth Avenue shopping, Carnegie Hall or the Broadway Theater District, all of which are within walking distance.

Sheer elegance	Lovely lodgings

(Updated: 06/25/08 HC)