Rhonda A.
Yelp
Trying to decide where to stay in New York City is challenging. Most of us love Manhattan, but those hotel room rates are almost more per night than a round trip ticket. So since my paternal side of my family is from Brooklyn, I wanted a more authentic hands on experience. I found this modern fair priced hotel right next to a parking garage and about one miles distance from the Brooklyn Bridge. I was hoping to take a brisk early morning walk across the bridge, snapping pre-dawn photos as the sun peaked up over the horizon. Unfortunately mother nature trumped those plans, no pun intended.
What added to the decisions to stay here are the various restaurants and little retail shops within a few minutes stroll down the street. In addition, online photos looked new and authentic, which never hurts. Nobody likes an inflated pre-sale on accommodations, because reality and fantasy are two very different aspects of life; And will be verified eventually.
I was there early, even with it raining like cats and dogs in late November. Quick question here: is it allowed to rain in NYC while hard working people are on vacation?? I think not. LOL. But I pressed on, full steam ahead. The nice staff at NU allowed me to check in around 12pm, so up to the 4th floor I went. My room was exactly like I thought it would be. Cozy, modern, comfortable, and chic. I sat my stuff down, freshened up a bit, from a several hours commute from Connecticut in rush hour traffic, oh vey!! Since I was meeting a friend in Manhattan by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, I called Lyft for a ride. Prices were not surging, but it kinda sucked that my fare was nearly $50, one way!! What ya talking about Willis?? Had I known that in advance, I would of booked a hotel in Manhattan and saved time and the aggravation. So learn from my experience, huh. Or take the subway. Or city buses. It's only money right?? I believe Lyft now provides quotes on their rates prior to rides to help alleviate this urban financial situation. Awesome!!
Returning back to the hotel later that night, I ordered a bottle of wine from the lobby bar along with a little snack. I was too exhausted to walk to a nearby place, but honestly should of just ordered something online, it would of been cheaper with more options. Again, another little travel lesson. I was just so overly exhausted, my brain wasn't thinking straight. No worries mate. One of their staff walked my food up with me, which was nice. Everyone was pretty friendly and helpful. I wish the hotel had more late night appetizers to choose from or suggested a local restaurant. Their limited snack choice were underwhelming.
What bummed me out was the parking situation. I called them earlier before I booked my stay here to make sure they would have ample space. They said they would. The garage is literally right next door, which is super convenient. When I arrive the manager tells me they are full. Well, hang on a second buddy. So I mention I am staying next door at NU Hotel. And he says okay, for you we will make room, like he is doing me a favor. Umpff. Their best rate is a 24 hour, $30 set amount, plus an extra $10 was added since my rental car was an SUV. And then they zinged me another $10 because I was a few minutes over my 24 hour time stamp. So folks, it cost me $100 to get into Manhattan and back. And than another $50 to keep my rental car in Brooklyn. What a rip off! Boy, did I really mess up. Lesson learned. Nobody said staying in NYC was cheap, they are not fooling people. Plan ahead really well, because those details can add to your budget quickly without a whole lot to show for it. Besides, how many drinks could I had enjoyed for that amount of wasted revenue?? Oh, my liver hurts just thinking about it!
Check in was a breeze. Checking out was fine. The Nu Hotel staff are professional and efficient. I just wish they were a bit more hands on with luggage assistance, a better parking arrangement with the next door garage. They definitely need to be more flexible, hotel guests are spending over $200 a night, don't rip us off on parking. It's tacky.