We arrived very late at the Giraffe Hotel, exhausted from the flight and over-excited about our arrival in New York. I was massively relieved when we were greeted quickly by an understanding member of staff who allowed us upstairs to our room without extensive questioning. Though dark outside, the room still glowed luxuriously, a comforting retreat decorated in warm reds and browns. We collapsed into the giant plush bed and fell sound asleep despite the honking and hooting of cabs outside.
Giraffe Hotel is the first member from the family of Library hotels that we visited. Inspired by the architecture and design of the Art Moderne period, this hotel hopes to embody the power, grace and beauty found in the animal kingdom’s tallest member! The ‘look’ is classic and traditional but with an updated modern twist. Our room was heavenly, more of a suite with a large living area and huge bed, I felt sad we could only stay one night. Thoughtful touches could be found everywhere, a little box of chocolates and wine, lush plants adorning every corner and a little library of vintage books on the shelf. The list of complimentary amenities in the hotel is impressive and includes: passes to a nearby fitness centre, wine and cheese reception each day, selection of daily newspapers and high speed internet throughout the building.
We were most excited to hear about Hotel Giraffe’s recent role in Sex and the City: The Movie. Apparently the Piano Suite was transformed into Mr. Big’s apartment, a fact also mentioned during our special Sex and the City tour of Manhattan. It makes sense too, the rooms are characterful yet businesslike, perfect for adapting for films.
The downstairs grand lobby is a hub of activity: friends meet, guests mingle and visitors chat over coffee and bagels. We sat here for a while the next morning at a cute table by the window with lots of light, the perfect place for our map plotting and planning. Breakfast at the Giraffe is a relaxed help-yourself European style buffet, with endless coffee, cakes, croissants, fruit and cereal. All fresh and yummy and we had to restrain from gorging too much… it was definitely not a good idea to try every flavour of the mini madeleine cakes.
We were sad to say goodbye to the Giraffe so soon, this hotel offers a calm and comfortable place to refresh and restore whilst staying in this exciting city.
More information here.