Sofitel-New York

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Citysearch

The Scene
There's nothing quite like a holiday in Paris, especially when you're in New York. Appropriately enough, Bastille Day in 2000 marked the grand opening of the first Manhattan home of this upscale French hotel chain. It stands out among its history-laden neighbors as an ultramodern tower grounded by two 20-story limestone wings. The lobby sports a colorful ceiling mural depicting scenes similar to those in the hotel's Gaby restaurant, serving French cuisine with Asian influences.

The Details
Smoking is on a floor-by-floor basis, a rule covering all 346 rooms and 52 suites. Once inside, think 1930s Paris. Black-and-white photos of the Big Apple's and the City of Lights' monuments line the walls and in guest rooms. Accommodations are tastefully furnished, with lots of natural and artificial light. There are plenty of modern amenities, including high-speed Internet access and necessities such as hair dryers and phones in the bathroom. Sofitel also has an on-site fitness center.