Hotel Review: Sofitel New York

In one of New York's smarter locations in Midtown Manhattan, situated between Times Square and Grand Central Station off Fifth Avenue, top sights like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Museum of Modern Art and Central Park are within walking distance. There's a host of subway lines at nearby Times Square, Bryant Park and Grand Central station.

By plane: flights from London, Manchester or Edinburgh to New York take 7 hours. A taxi will take 50 minutes from JFK airport. Parking costs $70 per day. Book flights to New York.

An elegant 30-storey building with an exterior of limestone and glass, the interior has a refined, tranquil atmosphere. There are many indications of plushness - in the lobby's grand circular staircase, leather club chairs and velvet couches - and fresh flowers on display.

The hotel is a bit low on facilities but has an upscale pub, brasserie, 24/7 fitness centre in the basement and a business centre.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Fitness centre
• Free Wi-Fi

The plush rooms and suites are spacious by New York standards, with ivory, cream and black details. Amenities include a safe, large TV and minibar. Views range from 44th Street to the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building. Marble bathrooms have a separate bath and shower.

Room types: Superior, Luxury, Magnifique, Executive Suite, Skyscraper Suite, Broadway Suite, Tony Awards Suite, L'Appartement

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, mini-fridge, TV, free Wi-Fi

The hotel has the Art Deco-inspired Gaby Brasserie Française, offering quality French cuisine and stylish cocktails. Whether a steak, seared scallops, burger, sandwiches or simply a croissant and coffee, there's a wide range to choose from.

Gaby Brasserie Française: Art Deco restaurant, French cuisine. Charcuterie and fromage sharing plates. Open daily for breakfast and dinner.

Mademoiselle Gaby: full-service bar, classic cocktails. Open daily for dinner, 6-9:30pm.