ROYAL PARK HOTEL, New York

The hotel sits on the Upper West Side, less than a 5-minute walk from the 1, 2, and 3 subway lines at 96th Street. Central Park is about 5 blocks east, and Riverside Park is a 10-minute walk west. A dozen restaurants, a supermarket, and a 24-hour 7-Eleven are within a 3-minute walk, making self-catering and late-night snacks easy. The neighbourhood is safe and residential, with moderate street noise that diminishes on side streets. For airport access, the subway connects to JFK and LaGuardia via transfers; the hotel can arrange a shared shuttle for about $20 per person.

A mix of room types is available: some are small with bunk beds or a single double, while others offer two double beds or a king-size bed with a walk-in closet. Private bathrooms vary - some are modern with rain showers, others are older with limited space. Rooms come with a flat-screen TV, in-room safe, hairdryer, and free toiletries. Window air-conditioning units are standard; they can be noisy but effective. Soundproofing is minimal; rooms facing Broadway or the lift may hear street noise or mechanical sounds. Daily housekeeping includes bed-making and towel changes. Some rooms have a microwave and fridge upon request or in select units. The building has an old freight-style elevator that can be slow; stairs are available.

The hotel does not serve meals, but guests can use the shared lounge area which has a vending machine for snacks and drinks. A communal microwave and kettle are available in a small room off the lobby. Within a 2-minute walk there are bagel shops, a French bakery, Vietnamese, rotisserie, and a classic American diner. A supermarket across the street is convenient for groceries. For a full breakfast, Paris Baguette and Earth Cafe are popular choices just around the corner. The hotel can provide recommendations for nearby dining, and many restaurants deliver.

WiFi is free and accessible throughout the property. Reception is staffed around the clock, and staff can assist with tour bookings, taxi calls, and airport shuttle arrangements (approx. $20-22 per person). Luggage storage is available after check-out for a fee, and guests can use a restroom when collecting bags. The hotel has a lift (old but operational), shared lounge with TV, and vending machines. Safety deposit boxes are available for a charge. The business centre has computers and printing for an additional cost (approximately $1 per 7 minutes). Daily housekeeping is provided. There is no on-site gym, pool, or spa.