Travellers want to stay in hotels that offer them a safe, clean and comfortable place to sleep. The hotel industry is constantly evolving, and travellers have different needs when it comes to choosing a hotel. Some value a hotel’s location, while others prefer a particular type of room. When looking for a hotel, many travelers read online reviews to determine whether a property is the right fit.
In the era of anything-goes, unverified online reviews, the hospitality industry’s reputation is under siege. As a result, consumers have become increasingly wary of hotel reviews and have turned to review aggregators like TripAdvisor to verify reviews. Fortunately, hotels can increase their chances of bookings by improving their customer service and addressing guest concerns in a thoughtful manner.
With its gleaming towers, Broadway shows and historic landmarks, New York City offers something for everyone. Travellers can visit the Financial District for a bustling, urban experience, Greenwich Village for its literary past and coffeehouses or SoHo for luxury shopping and dining options. But when it comes to selecting a hotel, the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming for visitors. To help, Forbes Passport takes a closer look at some of the best hotels in the Big Apple.
The newest addition to Manhattan’s boutique scene, Aman New York landed on our World’s Best Awards list in 2024. This upscale urban sanctuary fills floors 7 to 14 of a Beaux-Arts building with a gilded pyramid roof, and rooms feature opulent interiors with fireplaces, deep soaking tubs and pivoting partition walls that resemble Japanese paper shoji screens. Guests can relax at the serene full-service spa with its snow room, hammam and sauna, or book the two-floor Sir Richard’s Flat for postcard-perfect views of the Empire State Building.
Another top hotel pick is the venerable The Carlyle, which has attracted celebrities and royalty since its opening in 1930. The luxury property recently completed a $120 million renovation that included a redesign of the 155 elegant rooms and suites. Those looking to be seen can request a park view or a table at the famous Bemelmans Bar, designed by illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans and perfect for people watching.
The modern Airbnb accommodation platform is known for its extensive range of accommodations, from unique stays to traditional homes. The website also offers a robust hotel listing with detailed descriptions and photos to help travellers find the ideal destination for their next vacation. Airbnb also provides users with the ability to write reviews and rate their stays based on their personal experiences.
It’s important for small hotels to have an active social media presence and utilize a third-party hotel review aggregator. By actively monitoring these sites and responding to both positive and negative feedback, a small hotel can boost its credibility. In addition, it’s crucial for a small hotel to have authentic reviews from satisfied guests. In the end, a strong online reputation will give potential customers confidence that they can expect an exceptional stay at a small hotel.