Conrad New York

The famous song "New York, New York" might say the 'The Bronx is up, but the Battery's down' - but in my book, now that the Conrad Hotel is open, the Battery is nothing but up, up, up. Located in the heart of Battery Park City, the Conrad took over a former Embassy Suites and really classed the joint up. The rooms are surprisingly spacious and amazingly tranquil, really helping you relax, away from the hustle and bustle of neighboring TriBeCa. The grand atrium/lobby feels more like an interesting contemporary art exhibit by Sol LeWitt (because it IS!) than the spot where you move from elevator to cab, while the in-house restaurant ATRIO serves up the best Mediterranean this side of the West Side Highway. My favorite touch: the lavender-scented bath products. Again, perfect for escaping the stress of the city.