Hotel New York

Hotel New York, Rotterdam: A Dive into Historic Grandeur and Modern Comfort

Hotel New York in Rotterdam stands as a beacon of the city's rich maritime history, housed in the former headquarters of the iconic Holland America Line. This Michelin Key Selected property offers guests a truly unique experience, blending turn-of-the-century grandeur with contemporary hospitality.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Hotel New York is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently praising its distinctive atmosphere and high service standards. It holds an impressive average rating, with strong scores across categories such as location (9.5), staff (9.2), and comfort (9.1). Reviewers often describe their stay as "exceptional" and "unforgettable," highlighting the hotel's ability to transport them back in time while providing modern luxuries.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently love the hotel's historic ambiance and unique design, which is steeped in the narrative of thousands of emigrants who once set sail from this very spot for North America. The preserved original architecture and decor contribute to a sense of "old-school glamour." The prime waterfront location on the Kop van Zuid, offering stunning views of the Nieuwe Maas river, is another significant highlight. Furthermore, the attentive and friendly service from the staff is frequently commended.

3. Room Quality

Hotel New York boasts 72 individually styled rooms, each varying in shape, design, and color, reflecting the building's origin. Rooms are smartly decorated with modern furnishings and offer four-star comfort. Guests have described them as "very large" and "luxuriously appointed," with features like comfortable beds (often extra-large) by Treca de Paris, cozy seating areas, and Nespresso coffee machines. Many rooms offer "exciting views" of the river or harbor. Some unique suites, once offices or boardrooms, are decorated more lushly. While some rooms feature modern bathrooms, others have a blend of old and new, and some even include freestanding baths on raised platforms or bathtubs within the bedroom. Blackout curtains and individual climate control are standard amenities.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel features two distinct dining experiences. The main Hotel New York Restaurant (HNY) is celebrated for its beautiful maintenance and strong atmosphere, with wooden floors, cushioned booths, dramatic chandeliers, and huge windows offering "amazing views out across the Nieuwe Maas." It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a contemporary bistro style, including an oyster bar. Breakfast is notably served until 12 pm, and lunch until 5 pm. Guests appreciate the "above average" and "delicious breakfast," with some noting that eggs and scrambled eggs are freshly prepared to order. For a different vibe, the subterranean NY Basement (NYB) offers a high-end, speakeasy-like atmosphere with vintage decor, serving food and "fantastic cocktails." Vegan options are more readily available at HNY. Room service also receives praise for "hot, freshly cooked, and delicious" food.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Hotel New York are consistently highlighted as a strong point. Guests describe the staff as "courteous," "very hospitable," "friendly and warm," and "competent." Many reviewers mention feeling well-cared for, with staff going the "extra mile" and being proactive in ensuring guest happiness. Housekeeping and front desk staff, in particular, have received specific commendation for their helpfulness.

6. Location & Accessibility

Strategically located on the Kop van Zuid, the hotel is an excellent base for exploring Rotterdam. It's just a short distance from the Nederlands Fotomuseum and close to many bars, restaurants, and the floating eatery Putaine. The hotel offers easy access to public transport, including the Metro, and is ideal for those catching a water taxi from right outside the hotel into the city center. The Erasmus Bridge is also nearby, allowing for walks to Rotterdam's city center. Its proximity to the cruise ship pier makes it a convenient choice for cruise passengers.

7. Value & Pricing

While specific price ranges vary, guests generally find the hotel to be worth its four-star classification. Many feel it offers good value for the unique historical experience and luxurious surroundings. However, some past reviews, particularly from 2020, noted that at around €165 per night, the breakfast could be underwhelming, leading to questions about overall value during specific periods.

8. Common Complaints

While generally well-received, some minor complaints have surfaced. These include occasional poor lighting in certain rooms and, in older reviews, concerns about rooms being "stuffy" or lacking nightstand tables. Some guests have experienced less-than-ideal room views, such as facing a nearby wall or a construction site. During certain periods, especially affected by social distancing regulations, the breakfast buffet was perceived as limited and restrictive. Another point of contention has been the absence of in-room tea-making facilities, with guests needing to call room service for complimentary tea, which some found inconvenient despite the "luxury" aspect.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. rotterdamcityhotel.com
3. hoteladvisorexpert.com
4. booking.com
5. girlabouttravel.co.uk
6. asthebirdfliesblog.com
7. westcordhotels.com
8. michelin.com
9. booking.com
10. youtube.com