Trump SoHo New York, Spring Street
Recent political events aside, I was intrigued to stay at Trump SoHo New York – the 2008-built young pretender to the SoHo-TriBeCa hotel scene that somehow managed to build a 46-story tower in the heart of what remains an essentially low-rise area. The groups’ second hotel in Manhattan boasts a superb location in SoHo’s Spring Street, within easy reach of most West Village/Tribeca/SoHo attractions. And it’s only a short walk or taxi south to the World Trade Center Observatory and Memorials, as well as Battery Park.
All 391 rooms and suites at Trump SoHo boast jaw-dropping midtown, Hudson or City views. My spacious corner suite on the 39th floor was outstanding. I have never stayed in a hotel room at this height before (initially a challenge as I suffer from vertigo!) but once my ears stopped popping I relaxed and started to enjoy the lofty experience. The views out across the Hudson towards Jersey and south towards the City were incredible. Thanks to my superb Opticron binoculars (www.optricron.co.uk) I could see almost to Newark, as well as people watch from my lofty eyrie. The views were especially hypnotic at night when Lower Manhattan became a magical light show. There is nowhere like the vertiginous New York skyline to set the imagination soaring.
My spacious bedroom with giant bed and king-size TV offered dual aspect views over the Financial District and Battery Park, and even towards Manhattan Bridge. Lighting was easy to control thanks to bedside control panel and the curtains had great blackout facilities.
The bathroom was spacious, with a bathtub, shower and his-and-hers basins, while the generous living area comprised a very comfortable sofa bed, desk and fridge area. There was a widescreen Samsung TV in the lounge too, and plenty of storage throughout the suite. For extra privacy a sliding wooden panel separates the bedroom from the lounge.
Service was excellent, from in-room dining to the front desk. I had an incredible massage in the spa from Pilar (highly recommended) who gave me the best massage of my life. Book her! The spa area is next to the Bar d’Eau bar (light bites and cocktails) and outdoor lap pool but is located away from the party vibe and manages to be a haven of tranquility. I was in a double treatment room with his-and-her massage beds, as well as a large Jacuzzi. The steam room was adequate although small, and I liked the relaxation rooms with fruit, teas and nuts. I also had a fabulous facial with Danielle.
In-room dining is available 24/7 at Trump SoHo and I loved breakfast in my suite while enjoying stunning views of the Hudson. A great menu of eggs, cereals, toast, juices and more. Get room service as the breakfast area is on the mezzanine and is quite small. The main restaurant, Mr Jones, opens at 5pm and offers cocktails, beers, spirits and wines alongside a tapas-inspired menu. I loved the tasty Baja fish tacos: the Chatham cod, Napa slaw and chipotle aioli was the perfect early-evening snack.
Trump SoHo has a superb location that’s hard to beat. Step right outside and you’re at the corner of Varick and Spring with the historic Cast Iron district just a few blocks east. Comprising some of the world’s finest cast-iron buildings built as warehouses between the 1870s and 1800s, SoHo is bordered by Houston Street, Canal Street, Crosby Street and West Broadway. The area is full of art galleries, trendy boutiques and great restaurants, including old timers, such as Balthazar that still attract the crowds (locals and tourists), thanks to its cool vibe and adjacent boulangerie. Visit Damien Hirst’s Other Criteria for eclectic gifts and grab an aperitif at Il Buck Alimentari e Vineria.
I also recommend a visit to Trattorio Spaghetto, my fave old-school Italian at the corner of Carmine and Bleecker. Tables outside are well-placed for al fresco dining and right opposite the Our Lady of Pompeii church. I love this place.
The Conrad is also easily situated for a walk along the gorgeous High Line. A beautiful walkway and park with plantings and sculptures along a disused trail track that begins at Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking district and now extends for 1.45 miles all the way to the Hudson Yards development in Hells Kitchen. Around 99% of the High Line’s budget comes from volunteers so visit the website and make a donation. It’s a beautiful walk, especially in spring and fall. In summer you’ll need a hat and plenty of water, as there isn’t much shade.