The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

Hotel description

This is the old-world, old-money face of Manhattan, the Upper East Side, where the wealthy (including the occasional head of state) pass their time, leaving downtown to the trend-chasers and aspirants. For many of us a trip to The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, is as close as we can ever come to the storybook New York of days gone by, when Marilyn may have been whisked through the side entrance for an appointment with JFK. Recent renovations have added almost nothing new, merely heightening the time-travel feel of the place, returning the original shine to the distinctly British Empire interiors. The Carlyle can’t be bothered to notice recent ‘developments’ in the hospitality industry; this is a place that clearly operates under the assumption that last century’s hoteliers got it right, and that discreet and old-fashioned service goes a long way—sadly almost a novel idea at this point. The location is unparalleled, a stone’s throw from Central Park and just a block north of the Whitney Museum on Madison Avenue, with what may be the world’s best shopping within walking distance. Any designer worth a mention has a boutique within a few blocks from here, not to mention Barneys, and the upscale residential neighborhoods make for first-class people-watching. Executive travelers take note: The Carlyle is not exactly the most modern of business hotels, and the staff, though supremely professional, are unlikely to be able to sync your laptop to your PDA. They are handy with a phone message, however, and discreet in a way the fashion students and aspiring actors who staff the downtown hotels will never be. If your happiness depends on late-night debauchery and being photographed in the city’s hottest nightspots, then there are downtown locations that would be better suited (consult Time Out for the hip neighborhood of the season), but for a taste of old-school Upper Manhattan, The Carlyle is ideal.

Travelling with Kids

Guests over the age of 17 are considered adults. Some rooms accommodate 3 or more. The "Three Bedroom Suites" room sleeps up to 8 guests. For crib/cot, must book "Superior" room or larger. For 2 adults + rollaway bed, must book "Deluxe" or larger. For 2 adults + 2 kids beyond crib age, must book "Superior Suite" room or larger. Connecting rooms available. Can be confirmed upon reservation.

Cribs are available and may be subject to an additional fee. Roll-away beds available for an additional fee of US$75. No additional charges for kids beyond crib/roll-away.

Babysitting services provided by screened outside help at US$25, 4 hr min per hour. The restaurant is kid-friendly with high chairs and a kids menu. Room service offers a kids menu. Madeline's Tea for children every Saturday and Sunday afternoon featuring a pianist performing childrens sing along songs Nursery rhymes and story telling