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Many travelers make the common mistake of looking for accommodation near Times Square when planning a trip to New York City. While Times Square is undoubtedly the mecca of tourist attractions, it’s not so much the same for accommodation. To me, the best of both worlds is actually at the southern tip of Manhattan in an area called Battery Park.

Location

In the 17th century the area used to be part of the Dutch Settlement and because it’s a waterfront area, there was a unit of artillery, canons and rocket launchers to protect the base from a naval attack. Then in the 1800’s, New York State established the first immigration receiving center (before Ellis Island) right in Battery Park called Castle Garden. The area has an incredibly wealthy history, much of which you can still see and learn about today just by walking around. In my opinion, Battery Park is home to one of the most beautiful and underrated parks in New York City and the Ritz-Carlton New York Battery Park is just a cross of a street away.

In reality, The Ritz-Carlton New York Battery Park is in the “heart” of NY. It’s not in the geographical center, but it is a short walk away from New York’s most important sight and “heart“: The Freedom Tower. In the morning, you can sense the fast paced and vibrant pulse of the streets as businessmen and women rush to Wall Street. At night, the residential area is calm and quiet. Just a few train stops away are some of the trendiest area in the city: SoHo, Meatpacking, and Tribeca and it’s even easier to get to Times Square on the express line. Also, a short cab ride away, you can get a great last minute deal on a helicopter ride and see the unforgettable NYC skyline from a birds eye view! If you’re feeling adventurous during the holidays, here are more things that you must do in NYC.

The Room

Did I mention that the property faces America’s most iconic symbol of freedom: The Statue of Liberty? My room had a telescope, a unique prop that I’ve never seen in a hotel ever before and I spent a lot of time, especially at night, gazing at the flickering lights of the Statue of Liberty in the distance. What also stood out to me was the spaciousness of the room – a quality you will rarely find in New York City hotels (and apartments alike, hah).

And a beautiful deep soaking tub encompassed by nude marble!

Dining

The property’s signature American restaurant, 2WEST, has a chic and dark lounge-like atmosphere and serves fantastic flavorful comfort foods in unique ways. So unique, that the menu is actually an iPad!

My favorite, by far, were the smokey scallops – served on white cheddar corn mashed potatoes and presented in this jaw-dropping way.

Also not to be missed is the roast Maine cod, served with littleneck clams.

The Club Lounge

One of my favorite value adds of all Ritz-Carlton properties is the “Club Level” which offers numerous complimentary culinary experiences and specialty drinks throughout the day. It’s a quiet, intimate and exclusive environment where you can relax and enjoy exceptional service and delicious hors d’oeuvres as well as a full continental breakfast. It is definitely an experience worth including in your stay!