citizenM New York Times Square

citizenM New York Times Square: A Modern, Tech-Savvy Stay in the Heart of Manhattan

The citizenM New York Times Square stands out as a "Michelin Key Selected" property, offering a unique blend of "affordable luxury" and cutting-edge design in a prime location. Guests consistently praise its vibrant atmosphere, modern decor, and highly efficient service, making it a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking a stylish and convenient base in New York City.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for citizenM New York Times Square is overwhelmingly positive, with high ratings across various platforms. It's often described as a "great hotel" and "cozy" with an "excellent location" and "amazing staff". The hotel receives high scores for cleanliness (9.1), comfort (9.0), staff (9.3), and particularly its location (9.7). Many guests express a strong desire to return, highlighting its success in delivering a satisfying and unique experience.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently love several aspects of citizenM New York Times Square:

• Location: Its proximity to Times Square, Broadway theaters, Central Park, and major subway lines is a major draw.
• Design & Vibe: The hotel boasts a modern, sleek, and minimalist design, with vibrant and energetic common areas. The lobby is designed as an "oversized living room" with contemporary art and stylish Vitra furniture, encouraging relaxation and social interaction.
• Technology: The "smart rooms" controlled by an in-room iPad or a personal phone are a significant highlight, managing everything from lighting and temperature to entertainment and blackout blinds.
• Rooftop Bar (cloudM): The 21st-floor rooftop bar offers "sweeping views of the city" and a "chilled ambiance," making it a popular spot for relaxation and drinks.
• Friendly Service: The staff, often referred to as "ambassadors," are consistently praised for being "friendly and helpful."

3. Room Quality

The rooms at citizenM New York Times Square are known for being compact yet "cleverly designed" and "ingeniously designed" to maximize space and comfort. All rooms feature an "XL king bed" with quality bedding and pillows, described as "super comfortable" and "massive".

Key room features include:

• Control System: An in-room iPad (or your own phone) allows guests to control ambient mood lighting (including color), blackout drapes, temperature, and the smart TV with free movies and streaming options.
• Bathroom: A "rain shower" (often referred to as a "power-shower" or "jungle-like") with excellent water pressure and "oversized bathroom amenities" from bespoke brands are consistently highlighted. Some accessible rooms feature step-free roll-in showers with grab bars and a seat. The sink is sometimes located in the main room outside the "pod bathroom".
• Amenities: Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a small refrigerator with complimentary bottled water (though some guests note a filtered water station is now available downstairs), and soundproofing for a good night's rest. Under-bed storage helps with luggage in the compact rooms.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel offers a 24/7 food and beverage service at canteenM. Guests can find barista-made coffee and freshly made cocktails.

• Breakfast: A hot and cold breakfast buffet is available (for a fee of approximately $22 per person), offering "unique local treats, familiar favorites, and healthy options," including vegan and vegetarian choices. Some reviews mention the breakfast buffet was unavailable at times due to safety measures, with options provided on a tray or in a bag.
• Other Food Options: Beyond breakfast, canteenM serves full meals like pizzas, truffle fries, and chicken dishes, though it's typically for eating downstairs or taking to the room, as there's no traditional room service.

5. Service & Staff

The service at citizenM New York Times Square is consistently rated as excellent. The staff, known as "ambassadors," are frequently praised for being "friendly and helpful," "amazing," and having "great unique personalities." The self-check-in kiosks are also highlighted for their efficiency, often taking 60 seconds or less, although staff are always present to assist. Guests appreciate the ease of check-in and check-out.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel boasts an "unbeatable location" in the heart of Manhattan.

• Proximity to Attractions: It's just a 1-minute walk from Times Square and within 5 minutes' walk of Central Park, Columbus Circle, and Fifth Avenue/Madison Avenue. Rockefeller Center and the Empire State Building are also within a 15-minute walk.
• Transportation: The location is "conveniently near metro" and subway lines that provide easy access to major attractions without transfers.
• Neighborhood: Guests describe the area as walkable and good for shopping. Despite being so close to Times Square, the rooms are soundproof, ensuring a quiet stay.

7. Value & Pricing

citizenM New York Times Square is considered "affordable luxury" in an "objectively very expensive city". Prices can start from around $150-$187 per night, though they vary depending on the season and booking proximity. Guests generally feel it offers "great value for money" and that the "novelty factor of the smart room combined with all of the extra ways citizenM goes above and beyond, makes it one of your best options in New York City". The hotel is also recognized for its environmentally friendly initiatives, which adds to its perceived value for some guests.

8. Common Complaints

While generally highly rated, some recurring criticisms include:

• Room Size: The most frequent comment is that the rooms are "small" or "compact," which, while efficiently designed, can be an adjustment for those used to larger spaces. There's limited walking space, and guests with excessive luggage might find it challenging, although under-bed storage is provided.
• Elevators: Some reviews mention "slow elevators" or issues with the lift system being "archaic and very unreliable".
• Gym Limitations: The gym, while offering city views and equipment like treadmills and Pelotons, is described as "a little bit small" and potentially limiting for serious weightlifting.
• No Room Service: There is no traditional room service, meaning guests need to go to canteenM for food.
• Housekeeping Schedule: Housekeeping might be on request or less frequent (e.g., every three days), which some guests note.

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