RED LION INN & SUITES LONG ISLAND CITY, New York

Situated in Long Island City, Queens, the hotel is a prime base for accessing Manhattan's key attractions. The Queensboro Plaza and Queens Plaza subway stations are just a short walk away, offering the 7, N, W, R, E, and M lines that connect to Midtown in about 10-15 minutes. The area is generally quiet at night, with numerous restaurants and a large grocery store within a few blocks. Street parking is limited and typically requires moving vehicles for a longer stay, so public transport is the most practical option. The hotel is also within easy reach of LaGuardia and JFK airports via the subway or taxi.

The rooms at this hotel are functional and budget-oriented, often small by New York standards, with basic furnishings. Some rooms feature parquet floors and a work desk. The private bathrooms include a sink and free toiletries. Noise can be an issue: windows are not well-sealed, allowing street and subway noise to enter, and the air conditioning units can be noisy. Rooms on lower floors may feel dark, and some have reported maintenance issues such as broken shower heads, leaking taps, and worn-out mattresses. For a quieter stay, request a room on a higher floor and away from the street. Daily housekeeping is provided, but room servicing may be requested at reception. The hotel also offers cots for families.

Breakfast is included in the room rate and is offered daily in a small dining area (often just 2-4 tables). Due to limited seating, many choose to take breakfast to their rooms using the available trays. The breakfast typically includes scrambled eggs, sausages, bacon, a waffle maker, cereals, yoghurt, fresh fruit, muffins, and toast with butter and jam. Coffee and tea are available 24/7 in the lobby. While the selection is consistent and basic, it provides a solid start for a day of sightseeing. For more varied or substantial meals, a wide range of restaurants, pizzerias, and diners are within a 5-10 minute walk, including Court Square Diner and Luzzo's.

The on-site fitness centre is small and equipped with a few machines, including a stationary bike and a stepper. It is available free of charge 24/7, suitable for a quick, simple workout. No other wellness or leisure facilities such as a pool, sauna, or spa are present on the property.

The hotel provides free and reliable Wi-Fi in all areas. The 24-hour front desk can assist with express check-in/out, information, and luggage storage. Daily housekeeping changes towels and makes beds. Laundry and dry cleaning are available for an additional charge. The business centre is free to use for printing and faxing. Safety features include 24-hour security, CCTV, key card access, and in-room safety deposit boxes. The property has a lift, is wheelchair accessible (with designated rooms), and offers cots on request. Note that the elevator is slow and may be the only one servicing the building. The hotel also has a designated smoking area. Street parking is available, but subject to local regulations and typically requires moving the car for longer stays.