Profile

Located in the midst of bustling Herald Square, the 19-story Radisson Martinique is housed in a handsome, turn-of-the-century landmark structure complete with magnificent French Renaissance-inspired façade. Unfortunately, the building's original architectural splendor is only represented in the wrought iron staircase, the mosaic lobby floor and a couple of chandeliers. The 532 dated-but-comfortable guest rooms are decorated in auburn hues and feature double beds, mini-bar/safe-box units, 25" TVs, Sony PlayStations, two-line phones, coffeemakers, irons and wireless Internet. Bathrooms have granite sinks with hair dryers and Holiday Inn toiletries. More spacious accommodations (with newer drapes, bedding and carpeting) are available on the two Executive Floors. While the buffet-style restaurant is unremarkable, the bar generic, and the gift shops stocked with typical tourist fare, the hotel does feature an adequate fitness room, several well-equipped conference rooms and a ballroom. Though not as sophisticated inside as on the outside, the hotel is reasonably up-to-date, and its security personnel are on the ball, requiring ID from all visitors. — Melia Patria

Affordable for a historic hotel with many in-house services.

Cons
For such a landmark building and location, one would hope for a better preservation and representation of "Old New York" grandeur.