Accommodation
Midtown
W Times Square
Sophisticated and sexy, the flagship West is a destination for more than just its guests: Sushi and jazz favorite Blue Fin, party hotspot The Whiskey, a screening room, a trendy designer store and the state-of-the-art gym and spa keep even the local crowds coming. Overnight visitors pass through the lobby—enveloped on all sides, including the ceiling and floor, by panels of water—and check-in at the seventh-floor Living Room, a large, sleek lounge arrayed with hanging lamps, white leather stools and conversation nooks. Boasting a clean, modern design, the 507 rooms and suites are tricked-out with a 'floating' desk; TV with CD, DVD and infrared keyboard; mini-bar with local microbrews; high-speed Internet; Aveda or Bliss beauty products; snack-filled 'Munchie Box'; and sweeping city views. The W's 'Whatever/Whenever' policy provides extra fun: Want a peanut butter and fluff sandwich at 2 am, a laser printer stat or a bed covered with 2,000 daisies? The staff insists they'll do it. Of course, it’s all for a price; the 57-floor West is neither cheap nor personal, but there's a reason stars like Ashanti stay there for weeks at a time. And while the hotel may overload on services to compensate for the notoriously small rooms, upgrades to larger rooms are often available for just $30 more. — Maren Dougherty
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