Hi,

I can get pretty good deals on either of these and need to decide today--please help. Specifically, how big, clean, quiet, well-decorated and equipped are the rooms/bathrooms, and how do the locations compare (for some reason, I get the impression that HG is located in a less-interesting not really near-anything area, whereas WUS, being next to Union Square, is located in a more interesting area. By "interesting" I mean proximity to good restaurants, shops, sights, as opposed to more business areas.)

Thanks!

I have only stayed at the Giraffe and I loved it. The rooms were nicely done and the bathrooms were certainly adequate. There is a good breakfast served and included in the room charge every day in the lobby. We liked the location of the Giraffe as it provided us ready access to Chelsea and the Village. You will be only a few blocks from Madison Park and the Shake Shack. I do think restaurants around Union Square might be more interesteing than those around HG.

The Hotel Giraffe is about 15 blocks due north of the W Union Square. I don't think the area is significantly less convenient, and it's close to some very good restaurants on Park and Madison. Ironically, many people walk or taxi up from Union Square to visit the restaurants in this area.

But the fact that the W is right there by several major subway lines going to all parts of Manhattan gives that location a slight advantage.

But it's also really really busy there, so if that's your thing, then you'll love it. If not, then you might not love it. It's certainly not as quiet as the area around the Giraffe, which has a moderately trendy outlet of Dos Caminos downstairs (the W has Olives). I like both hotels, so I don't know that I could make a choice there. I prefer having a smaller hotel myself. I live near the Giraffe, so I can say that I like the area, but it's really up to you.

Pam and Doug, thanks very much for your feedback--very helpful!

So Doug, have you actually stayed at both places? (wasn't sure from your post).

Thanks again.

Doug,

Can't believe I didn't think to ask you on my reply what your favorite restaurants are in the Hotel Giraffe neighborhood, since you live near there! Or anyplace else downtown, for that matter. We love all kinds of food, but would be particularly interested in Italian, tapas, or any Asian cuisine. We're flexible on price, but leaning toward a less-formal feel.

Thanks!

I have stayed at the Hotel Giraffe four times and I absolutely love it there. Very nice continental breakfast and wine and cheese reception during the week.

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern, clean and spacious.

thanks Janiekins,

Based on the responses, Hotel Giraffe it is!