Through the generous offer of two free nights at any Hyatt property (all categories) with the opening of a Hyatt credit card, we were set for our NYC trip. Booking one night at the Andaz Fifth Avenue and one night at the very pricey Park Hyatt (up to $1200/night), we had two very different experiences. Andaz treated us like royalty even using points. Park Hyatt, you disappointed and treated us like ugly stepchildren. Andaz, you win hands down! You have now got my loyalty for life–even as a paying customer.
Having stayed for two months at the Andaz in Shanghai for our transition housing when we moved to China, I did have high expectations. The Shanghai Andaz had the most amazing service and amenities, including complimentary snacks, beverages, nightly wine and morning buffet. In addition the rooms were lavish and service over-the-top. Checking into the Andaz Fifth Avenue felt like coming home–no counter between myself and the Andaz host. Without even asking: Bottled water? Yes please. Early check-in and late check-out? Yes please. Even though we weren’t “paying” customers, we had a view of the NYC Public Library with a spacious especially by NYC standards, luxurious room featuring 20 foot ceilings, a marble bathroom with a shower bigger than most bathrooms and separate foot bowl/foot shower, great after a long day of walking around Manhattan. At our last hotel, while they provided nice postcards, they did not have stamps available. Of course the Andaz not only had stamps for our postcards but no charge and happy to mail them for us. Classy and convenient. We got in a little after the free wine happy hour last night so the bottles were put away but when I asked, they quickly poured me a complimentary glass to go to the room. Ahhh….love the Andaz so much I would gladly pay the $300-400 a night to stay there if I was out of free Hyatt points, which I am now.
Now, on today to the Park Hyatt where there seemed to be a lack of service altogether and at up to $1200 a night, you would expect more. Finding our way up to the check-in, there was no offer of water and no early check-in. Yes, I’m spoiled. The lobby was teeny tiny and I was already missing my Andaz. But wait…the Park Hyatt decided to favor us with the worst room at the inn with a brick wall/construction/air vent view in a room so small you can hardly walk around the bed, which is typical for a NYC hotel but I thought the Park Hyatt would be different. Guess I was wrong.
Now, the high tech tv in the bathroom mirror with remote control was cool and the tub is nice but don’t eat those snacks, Thom, because they surely aren’t free. No complimentary wine for you, Ms. George! So, we quickly escaped to the top floor pool that we had heard was very nice and it was. Thom is taking his nap now while I write this and then we’ll enjoy the lap pool, cucumber water and hot tub.
Tonight it’s off to dinner with Ronnie and Andrea, old friends, and then Dublin tomorrow night. Vacation is THE BEST and yes, I appreciate it even looking at a brick wall. Life is good.
Travels with Melinda 