Hotel Review: Sonder Chambers, New York

Located in Midtown East, although not the quietest corner of New York, this is a great spot for exploring the city - it's near Broadway's theatres, the Empire State Building, MOMA, the Met and much more. Multiple subway lines are a short walk.

By plane: flights from London, Manchester or Edinburgh to New York take 7 hours. A taxi will take one hour from JFK airport. Paid parking available nearby. Book flights to New York.

This 17-floor boutique hotel has been designed by the Rockwell Group, renowned for its work updating hotels. Walk through the tall, imposing wooden entrance doors to a tranquil haven with lots of wood and natural earthy colours. The combination of antique rugs, well-picked contemporary art and concrete walls create uber-attractive public spaces.

Apart from the lounge area, bar and restaurant, there's a concierge, bicycle rental, a gym and in-room spa treatments.

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

The 77 rooms are on the whole contemporary and modern - with features like high concrete ceilings and rainwater showers. However, some could do with an update.

Room types: Queen, King, Double Full, Superior Queen, Superior King, Superior King Suite, Loft Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, essentials cupboard, TV, free Wi-Fi

The main section of the restaurant, Felice 56, is on the lower level, and its vintage carpets, huge artwork, double-height ceilings and low lighting create a lovely ambience. A good Italian wine list complements the excellent Italian dishes. There's also a lovely cocktail bar above, and alongside it a charming café offering coffees, pastries and snacks.

Felice 56: two-level restaurant and café-bar. Serving Italian cuisine and fine wines downstairs; pastries, coffee and cocktails upstairs. Open daily.