Looking for a boutique bolthole in New York? Easy Living Homes Editor Jennifer Haslam checks in to the louche luxury of the Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC hotel, the perfect place for a rooftop cocktail (and people watching the stylish Manhattanites pounding the pavement below...)
Location: On the corner of 9th Avenue and 13th Street in the heart of the hip Meatpacking District, surrounded by the fashionable boroughs of Chelsea, Greenwich and the West Village Boutiques.
Why to go: For a luxurious and stylish experience with everything you need under one roof; it's the perfect place to escape and relax in away from the bustle of Manhattan.
What's the story: The Gansevoort popped up in April 2004 as the cooler younger sibling to its Midtown sister hotel. With floor to ceiling windows, rooftop swimming pool, spa, its own nightclub and amazing skyline views, the Gansevoort is - eight years on - still the perfect cosmopolitan hotel.
The room: EL online stayed in a superior king room that boasts a more than generous sized bed, low sunken bath and perfectly placed lounge area with balcony views of the stylish Manhattanites pounding the pavements below. The fully stocked mini bar and selection of tunes chosen by the Gansevoort are perfect for getting in the party mood.
Eating and drinking: Start your evening off by relaxing in the rooftop bar, which offers delicious cocktails and stunning skyline views, a great way to kick off the evening. Step across the cobbled street to restaurant Pastis, which offers fine French bistro food, bustling atmosphere and - for us - the best steak frites in town. For breakfast head to Chelsea Market, which is packed with a variety of eateries, freshly baked breads and great coffee amid designer stores. Only in town for a few days? Check out The Diner at 44th and 9th Ave for a more authentic American brunch.
Out and about: Take a stroll along the High Line which starts on Gansevoort Street (just a two minute walk from the hotel) and explore the converted freight line up to 30th Street, weaving among the buildings and admiring the gardens and street views from an elevated level. In the other direction, head down towards Chelsea, taking in the shops and stylish bakeries. You're also perfectly placed for the subway or a yellow cab, for access to all the usual touristy spots.
What's the crowd: Chic, stylish and sophisticated types, definitely the place to see and be seen.
When to go: The Gansevoort's city chic appeal is absolutely all year round, although the benefit of the roof top pool makes a warm early or late summer city break more appealing. Avoid high summer months - July and August when the weather is breathtakingly hot.
Rate: Prices start at approximately $425USD per night, hotelgansevoort.com. Flights with British Airways from £350 return, ba.com.
