Where to stay in New York

The Mark

Designer Jacques Grange had "no qualms about pairing humbug-stripe marble lobby flooring with tall wall lighting in orange", notes Redman. A stay doesn't come cheap, but it's worth it note the voluminous cream bedroom drapes, the sumptuous 1930s bathrooms with nickel taps, and bathtubs as deep as sheep dips. The Italian-linen covered beds are so soft you could spend all day in them.

The restaurant is overseen by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. "It's cocooning, clubby and tangerine-low-lit; a 24-carat superstar spot." Dishes include parmesan-crusted chicken or roast lobster.

A double room costs from £422, with breakfast included. For more information, visit www.themarkhotel.com or call 00 1 212 744 4300.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up

The Four Seasons

This world-famous hotel is located close to the city's Central Park and has been drawing the world's rich and famous for years. Despite its reputation, it hasn't become starstuck or snooty. Expect a personal service that will leave you feeling like the highest-ranking VIP.

"Despite the imperious lobby with its towering ceilings, marble floors and giant pillars, the hotel still manages to be intimate and understated," says Douglas Rogers in The Daily Telegraph. The 368 rooms and suites "have breathtaking views, the higher ones looking out on the park and the city, all the way across the Hudson [river]". You'll also experience "some of the finest service around", says Forbes. "Don't be surprised if the staff remember you by name." They will also "be genuinely interested in helping you make the most of your time, whether it's helping procure tickets for a hot Broadway show or charter a private yacht for a Manhattan sailing expedition. No request is beyond the hotel's reach."

There are two "sublime" in-house restaurants, says Rogers. Ty Lounge serves up Asian-inspired dishes such as Korean beef tacos, or there is the Garden Restaurant serving American cuisine.

Prices from £430, room only (www.fourseasons.com/newyork or call 00 800 6488 6488).