A few years ago we joined the Hyatt Reward program and have enjoyed using it a few times. Just for signing up, we received two free nights, which was great. After some debate we decided to use them in one of the most exciting places, NYC. While in NY, we spent two amazing nights at the Andaz on 5th Avenue right across from the Stephen Schwarzman Library. While we have stayed at three different properties since we joined their program, and found each one wonderful and quite unique, there was just something special about the Andaz.
I was so excited when we got to the hotel and we were greeted by a couple of friendly hosts who helped us check-in. When they found out it was our first time in NY, they moved us to a nicer room, but sadly they were out of city view rooms. Oh well, maybe next time. Their loft-like guestrooms complement the hotel’s unique design elements and are reminiscent of apartments in pre-war New York. Their suites feature spacious work areas, free Wi-Fi, and a minibar with complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. I have to say, the sparkling water was great.
The first thing I noticed when we walked into the room what that there was a huge glass box with robes and slippers. I asked why they were in a glass box and she opened it and said it was our closet. She then stated that we were in New York, one of the fashion capitols, and they believe that fashion should be displayed, thus the clear glass closet. It was a little different, but hey, when in Rome, lol.
I enjoyed our room a lot, but I have to say the bathroom was the absolute best part of the room. Not only was it huge, but it also had a porcelain foot bath and walk-in rain showers. It felt like I was in Hawaii under a waterfall. 
I just fell in love with the foot bath after running around Manhattan all day. I have never stayed in a place with a foot bath, so I was seriously spoiled.
As far as the hotel itself, I found out it was only opened on July 10, 2010, thus everything was still quite new. There are 184 rooms, a 24-hour gym, a Currency exchange as well as a restaurant called the shop gift shop, and a bar/restaurant called the Bar Downstairs. We peeked in but never had a chance to enjoy a drink there. Maybe next time we stay there.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy was the layout. It just seemed a little weird and long to get to our room. After walking through the lobby, we have to take the elevator to the 2nd floor then walk a long corridor to take another elevator, and then get to our room. It just seemed like a lot of time and effort just to get to our room. But again we were only there for a couple of nights, so it wasn’t a big deal.
Other than that, we enjoyed our stay at the Andaz on 5th Avenue. We were in walking distance to the Stephen Schwarzman Library, Bryant Park, Times Square, Empire State Building, Macy’s, and Grand Central Station. Very convenient to everything in Midtown Manhattan. We were even able to see it from atop the Empire State Building. So cool. I can’t wait to visit again one day. Here is a link to their website if you would like more information.
