Sorry for repeat - realised I didn't put NYC in title. Visiting from Sydney with 11 yr old daugther, we are looking for spacious rooms, luxury (Four Seasons one-bed suite too expensive if that gives you a guide!) and central location. Looking at Trump or Ringha or...? Thanks in advance...Mel

NYC hotel rooms are infamous for being small - and even luxury hotels often have a mix of larger and smaller rooms. You don't say when you're coming - and you can get suite rates only by contacting the reservations office.

So - if you would tell us when you're coming (prices differ hugely by time of year) and what you US$ budget is - it would be much easier for us to help.

We have used the Mandarin Oriental several times and our rooms were large - but were deluxe - and price varied. Also - the suite at the Four Seasons is only one king bed - wouldn't you prefer two if you can get it - just another factor to consider.

Yes, sorry for not enough info.
Coming first week October. I suppose top price would be about $700-800 US.
Can you get 2 kings beds?
thanks

The Palace on Madison AVe and 50th St would be my best suggestion. I can probably pull a string or two and help with a better room.

Also check www.hotels.com for more ideas.

I have heard great things about Trump International. It feels very private and I believe the suites are all like apartments (kitchen) and potential for great Central Park views. Great restaurant inside, Jean Georges.

The Mandarin Oriental is nearby and is in the Time Warner building (a combination shopping complex, restaurants and office space) and starts on the 35th floor. Decor is more minimalist. In the same general area is the Ritz Carlton Central Park and the Essex House which just changed hands from being a Westin hotel to now owned by a co. called Jumeirah. Reviews on all of these on tripadvisor are very good.

The Pierre is an older hotel but a NY classic, also in the same general area as the others just mentioned, at the south end of Central Park. The Pierre sits ON Fifth Ave.

The Rihga Royal is in the process of renovation right now and will become the London NY hotel on completion (they say fall '06). It's just been taken over by a new co. and by all accounts will be quite luxurious when completed including Gordon Ramsay's first rest. in NYC. This is a less glamorous location than the others and it's the only one that's an all suite hotel, so possibly suite prices will be less than at the others. It is a bit closer to the theaters but not right in Times Square.

Since I don't know the relative pricing of suites at all of these, it's hard to say which is best value. Also don't know your taste. I would probably go for a high floor park view at the Ritz Carlton if it were available or the Trump. Both are small and known for service.

Others to check are the Plaza Athenee

I agree with all of mclauries recommendations. All are pretty much right at Columbus Circle and that is a great area to be based out of for Manhattan.