A NEW YORK HOME FROM HOME – WESTIN NEW YORK GRAND CENTRAL
23/11/2015
On February 7th 2015, I stepped off of a plane after 8hrs – looking like I’d been dragged through a hedge backwards, having gone 10 rounds with Mike Tyson – and immediately felt at home in a city I’d never visited before. That city was New York. I have waxed lyrical many times about how much I love New York so this post isn’t about that, it’s about the fact that even though you can feel at home in a city, that definitely doesn’t mean that your accommodation always feels homely. And to me, as much as I love travelling and being in a place that I love, staying and sleeping somewhere that feels like a home away from home is really really important to me.
Situated right by Grand central – funny that – in the heart of midtown Manhattan, The Westin Grand Central is, in short, an incredibly stunning hotel. With a beautifully grand entrance, the level of luxury and grandeur only continues once you enter inside. With gorgeous marble and rosewood running throughout, it is definitely one of those hotels that wows from the get go.
And then you enter the room [insert all the heart eye’d emoji’s/hands in the air emoji’s here]…
We were lucky enough to stay in the most amazing room and I immediately knew that we’d hit the jackpot from the second that we walked in. Before we could even jump on the bed – always a necessity when entering a hotel room – we both raced each other to the window to check out what has to be the most incredible view from a hotel room that I’ve ever experienced. But more on that later. Oh I’m such a little tease…
Once we ooh’d and ahh’d at the view (and taken all the Instagram photo’s, obvs) it was then time to jump on the Westin Heavenly bed – the actual name of the bed as they even have their own beds #fancy – and it was nothing other than dreamy. Like, total “screw it, sod exploring Manhattan, let’s just stay in bed all day” kinda dreamy. Marshmallow duvets, the bounciest mattress and pillows that make you feel like you’re lying in the arms of Harvey Spector – well, I mean, they’re not that incredible but one can dream – the Heavenly beds are definitely a major perk of this beautiful hotel.
The next thing that I love about the Westin rooms are the incredible sofa’s – which double up as a bed, just in case you have any crazy nights out in Manhattan and make some friends (or, you know, your other half snores or something…) – which to me, just adds the homeliest feel to the room which as I mentioned previously, is so important to me. I absolutely loved taking a moment out from exploring the beautiful city to catch up on some blog post writing/netflix and chilling on the sofa by the window, with the view that dreams are made of was the perfect place for that.
When shit got real there was some work to be done – i.e transferring the 50 bajillion photo’s that I took every day and trying to keep up to date with emails – the corner desk was the perfect little haven for this. With amazingly fast wifi to boot too. I had a little “is this really my life?” moment to myself in the middle of the holiday when I was uploading my photo’s from my Central Park and Brooklyn trips, answering some emails for some SUPER/MEGA/EPIC/STUPIDLY EXCITING projects that I have coming up soon, and drinking a Starbucks coffee from our very own coffee machine in the room… and I will never forget that moment. Or everybody that makes these amazing things happen (psst.. that’s you reading this). So thank you! Soppy moment over, it’s time to indulge in said Coffee machine pictures because if that concept isn’t #goals, then I don’t know what is.
Coffee, decaf coffee, English breakfast tea and a calming camomile alongside every single sweetener, creamer etc. that you could possibly think, this might [read: definitely was] have been a personal highlight for me.
Another highlight was the bathroom – which was beautiful but clearly not designed for bloggers with the extremely yellow lighting. I know, how unthoughtful 😉 – But with their own personalised shower gels, shampoo/conditioners etc. and a mirror that made doing your makeup a dream… it’s safe to say that I enjoyed my me time in there a lot. I did also vlog the whole trip including a room tour so yo can see said beautiful bathroom more there.
Now for Dan and I’s main highlight – although from his snores, he was a big fan of the bed too 😉 – the view from our room…
From our beautiful room on the 39th floor – yep, you read that right, the 39th floor! – we had the most stunning view of midtown Manhattan. With the Chrysler building directly to our left and a view of the Queensboro Bridge and East river to our right, we were completely spoilt for scenery.
I genuinely loved absolutely nothing more than sipping my Starbucks coffee – mostly at 5am, jet lag problems – to the most breathtaking sunrise and sunset over my favourite city in the world.
Once you’re done obsessing over the view, watching the sunset, jumping on a bed dreamier than Ryan Gosling, downing your caffeine and indulging in the cosiest bath ever, I would highly recommend heading to the LCL: Bar & Kitchen – the hotel’s bar and restaurant – which is the perfect place to grab a bagel or some oatmeal before heading out to see the sights and buy all the Brandy Melville and Bath and body works things.
So that brings me to the end of this hotel review for a place that really did become a home away from home for the most amazing 5 days of my life. A huge thank you to the Westin New York Grand Central for our amazing stay and for the loveliest most accommodating staff. [insert blow kiss and hand clapping emoji here]. We really did have the most amazing trip and the accommodation definitely played a big part in this, so I couldn’t recommend it enough!
As always, thanks so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this post!
I've read every single word and you've left me wanting more. I want to see the view out of your window more than anything. The little glimpses of New York make me want to visit rather badly! Jodie, xo // Jodie Loue
Ugh what I wouldn't do to visit NYC again! You are soooo lucky Ellie, you must have had an amazing experience & looks like the Westin Hotel looked after you well! Can't wait to read more about your trip. 🙂
Aw I am so happy you got the most amazing stay. I love a good cushiony bouncy bed to relax after hours of walking and exploring (especially in NYC). I will definitely remember to check this hotel for my next trip to NYC. Xx
Wowee that view is amazing!! This post seriously has me dreaming of NYC, I really want to go back one day. This hotel looks so lovely and jumping on the bed is definitely a necessity when first entering a new hotel room 🙂 x Charlotte's Road // Beauty, Fashion + Lifestyle
What a gorgeous hotel room, and what a blimmin' stunning view to boot! Don't blame you not wanting to leave in a hurry. I like New York, but your posts are making me want to actually visit it!
I completely agree, the accommodation is such a huge part of enjoying a trip – especially when you're so far away from home! But this hotel look like it definitely lived up to so many expectations, and more. Every part of the room is the perfect Instagram picture lol, but that view is definitely the highlight.:D
The hotel and the view looks incredible. Lucky you! 🙂 I really want to visit the US next year, probably for my birthday in June. Will keep this hotel and your other recommendations in mind. xx
Your photos are ahhmazing, what a view! It looks like you had the most incredible time in New York. I'll definitely be keeping this hotel in mind for the New York trip I've been planning for about 50 million years that'll probably never happen…
This looks like such an amazing hotel and I am so happy it's part of the Starwood group (definitely a good perk to my partner working for them), now I just need to plan a trip there soon :)! Love your photos as always, they just capture the place perfectly. Oh and how cool that they had a Starbucks coffee machine x
Ahh I am so jealous of your perks Alina, I'd be travelling everywhere if I could stay in the starwood hotels every time 🙂 You definitely have to go, so amazing!
This is so soppy but I'm so proud that you got this opportunity! Like how amazing that you were asked to review a hotel in New York?! The whole trip looks amazing, NY is such an amazing city. I'd love to go back xxx
I could cry and only but dream to get somewhere like that hahaha, the views are incredible literally and the room is gorgeous, I am always swayed by a sofa haha weird huh? But if you are in all day you want good coffee and a nice sofa, and a perfect view xxx
Wow, I totally understand what you felt in that moment, because the hotel is AMAZING, looks very cozy and it's good to hear that you felt like a home, it's so important. What's more, the view from the window I can describe in three words: oh, my God, it's epic! <3
Ahhhhh beautiful photos! That Hotel looks amazing! So lucky! Much nicer than the hotel I stayed in when I visited New York (google hotel pennsylvania for a giggle!) x
Every time you Instagram another photo of that view I'm all heart eyes. What an INCREDIBLE place and I am so envious of your time there! I bet you're counting the pennies to book your next trip! x
Oh my gosh, the view is absolutely amazing! You're so lucky 🙂 Love all your gorgeous photos! Thanks for sharing them with us 🙂 xo Kiki http://colormekiki.com/
The views from the hotel look incredible. I'm still yet to go and visit New York, but I'm sure it won't be long before I'm looking for hotels or scrolling through AirBnB! J
I've read every single word and you've left me wanting more. I want to see the view out of your window more than anything. The little glimpses of New York make me want to visit rather badly!
Jodie, xo // Jodie Loue
Ah thank you lovely, so pleased you liked the post and it made you want to visit. Isn't the view the dreamiest, I felt so lucky!
xx
Wow, wow, just wow! Everything about this hotel sounds spectacular! Would love to visit someday! xx
Beautylymin
It really is absolutely gorgeous, I would highly recommend it if you're visiting NY one day!
xx
What an incredible view!! I bet you really were in heaven.
Lots of love,
Angie
SilverSpoon London
I was absolutely in heaven Ange, so amazing!
xx
Ugh what I wouldn't do to visit NYC again! You are soooo lucky Ellie, you must have had an amazing experience & looks like the Westin Hotel looked after you well! Can't wait to read more about your trip. 🙂
http://www.duchessoffashion.co.uk
http://www.duchessoffashion.co.uk
Ah thank you lovely, I really do feel so lucky to have gone!
xx
Aw I am so happy you got the most amazing stay. I love a good cushiony bouncy bed to relax after hours of walking and exploring (especially in NYC). I will definitely remember to check this hotel for my next trip to NYC. Xx
Ally | http://www.glamoclock.com
You must check it out Ally, such a beautiful hotel!
xx
It looks like a great hotel – I'd love to visit New York x
Heather | Of Beauty & Nothingness x
It's the best place ever Heather, I love it so much!
xx
Wowee that view is amazing!! This post seriously has me dreaming of NYC, I really want to go back one day. This hotel looks so lovely and jumping on the bed is definitely a necessity when first entering a new hotel room 🙂 x
Charlotte's Road // Beauty, Fashion + Lifestyle
Haha I definitely did that, a total necessity 😉
xx
It really does look like a great place to stay, perfect location and what a view!
Suze | LuxuryColumnist
It was all of those things and more Suze, so perfect!
xx
What a gorgeous hotel room, and what a blimmin' stunning view to boot! Don't blame you not wanting to leave in a hurry. I like New York, but your posts are making me want to actually visit it!
Meg | A Little Twist Of…
Ah thank you lovely, so pleased you liked it and it's made you want to visit. It's such an amazing city!
xx
I completely agree, the accommodation is such a huge part of enjoying a trip – especially when you're so far away from home! But this hotel look like it definitely lived up to so many expectations, and more. Every part of the room is the perfect Instagram picture lol, but that view is definitely the highlight.:D
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Totally agree, can't beat that view, right? Amazing!
xx
The hotel looks so cosy and bang on in the middle of everything. I love hotels with good locations as it is easier to navigate around. Xx
eLLa
every LiTTLE thing07
So true Ella and I loved this area of midtown Manhattan, so fab!
xx
The hotel and the view looks incredible. Lucky you! 🙂 I really want to visit the US next year, probably for my birthday in June. Will keep this hotel and your other recommendations in mind. xx
Renata | Speaking Beauty UK
I'd highly recommend it lovely, such a beautiful place and fab location!
xx
What a gorgeous hotel and location! That view is so amazing! Sounds like you're having an awesome trip!
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
Thanks so much Shannon, it really was the best trip!
xx
Beautiful hotel and it looks really cozy 🙂
STYLE VANITY
It really was so cozy and homely!
xx
Your photos are ahhmazing, what a view! It looks like you had the most incredible time in New York. I'll definitely be keeping this hotel in mind for the New York trip I've been planning for about 50 million years that'll probably never happen…
Kirstie | Kimamely Beauty
Ahh you have to make it happen lovely, you'll have the best time!
xx
Wow, talk about a room with a view! Never been to NYC but it's most definitely on my bucket list. This looks like the perfect place to stay! x
Kate Louise Blogs
Ah you have to go lovely, it's so amazing!
xx
This looks like such an amazing hotel and I am so happy it's part of the Starwood group (definitely a good perk to my partner working for them), now I just need to plan a trip there soon :)! Love your photos as always, they just capture the place perfectly. Oh and how cool that they had a Starbucks coffee machine x
Beauty with charm
Ahh I am so jealous of your perks Alina, I'd be travelling everywhere if I could stay in the starwood hotels every time 🙂 You definitely have to go, so amazing!
xx
This is so soppy but I'm so proud that you got this opportunity! Like how amazing that you were asked to review a hotel in New York?! The whole trip looks amazing, NY is such an amazing city. I'd love to go back xxx
Sam // Samantha Betteridge
Ahh Sam that's the loveliest comment ever, thank you so much lovely, that means the world!
xx
I could cry and only but dream to get somewhere like that hahaha, the views are incredible literally and the room is gorgeous, I am always swayed by a sofa haha weird huh? But if you are in all day you want good coffee and a nice sofa, and a perfect view xxx
BlondeOfCarbs
Ahh you'll get there one day my love, and you'll love it! Totally get the sofa thing, makes such a difference doesn't it!
xx
Wow, I totally understand what you felt in that moment, because the hotel is AMAZING, looks very cozy and it's good to hear that you felt like a home, it's so important. What's more, the view from the window I can describe in three words: oh, my God, it's epic! <3
http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/
Isn't it completely epic? I loved waking up to that view so so much… perfection!
xx
lovely photos ! 🙂
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Thank you!
xx
I love the view from the room, I could just stay there all day long and watch this city! As always your photos are breathtaking! x
http://www.elabellaworld.com
Thanks so much hun, I'm so pleased you liked the photo's!
xx
Beautiful photos, I love New York and the Westin never is disappointing.
http://www.racheldinh.com
Thanks so much Rachel, so glad you love them too!
xx
The Westin looks like a beautiful hotel! It's amazing that you got the opportunity to go to New York. Your pictures look wonderful!
Amy | Dervish Darling
It really is so beautiful, I couldn't recommend it enough. Thanks so much for the lovely comment too!
xx
Ahhhhh beautiful photos! That Hotel looks amazing! So lucky! Much nicer than the hotel I stayed in when I visited New York (google hotel pennsylvania for a giggle!) x
http://www.beckieeschle.com
Ah thanks so much lovely, I know exactly which hotel you mean as I've looked at it before when I was looking to go. Was it that bad? 🙁
xx
what an amazing view! I love The Westin
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
The Westin is fab isn't it? The view just topped everything!
xx
I need to go to NYC and I need to go nowwwwww – oh that bed looks amazing <3
Lauren x
Britton Loves | Lifestyle Food Beauty
You absolutely do Lauren, my favourite place ever!
xx
A nice place to stay over the busy city.
Looks like you had a great time
The Bandwagon Chic | Instagram | Bloglovin | Snapchat: bandwagonchic
It really was perfect for exactly that!
xx
Deliciously home-y feeling! I love the view!
Dora http://www.bangsbang.com
Thanks Dora, such a pretty view isn't it!
xx
Wow the view looks killer! I love the detail you've gone into with the post and the pics are so lovely 🙂
crossinglemons.com
Holy guacamole! I bet the view from the 39th floor was an absolute marvel. When traveling it's always nice to find a home away from home. :]
// ▲ itsCarmen.com ▲
Hope you had great day, dear 🙂
http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/
Every time you Instagram another photo of that view I'm all heart eyes. What an INCREDIBLE place and I am so envious of your time there! I bet you're counting the pennies to book your next trip! x
Martha Jane | http://www.marthajanemusic.com
Oh my gosh, the view is absolutely amazing! You're so lucky 🙂 Love all your gorgeous photos! Thanks for sharing them with us 🙂
xo Kiki
http://colormekiki.com/
What a fantastic hotel – the views from your hotel room looks fabulous and I love the images of you on your laptop relaxing on the sofa! 🙂
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice
x
The views from the hotel look incredible. I'm still yet to go and visit New York, but I'm sure it won't be long before I'm looking for hotels or scrolling through AirBnB! J
http://www.jordanbunker.uk
This hotel looks so lovely! I also love how ideal the location is and it must have been so cool to be so high up yet also really scary 🙂 xx
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