InterContinental New York Barclay, an IHG Hotel

"Updated from a sad 3 stars on arrival (previous visits were wonderful) to a 1 star after experiencing zero interest to deliver on the services of a five star hotel and loyalty perks. With two exceptions, the ‘genuine’ hospitality is as fake as the ivy at the entrance. Help from the bellmen at arrival or departure? Zero. A warm welcome? No. A clean room? You wish. Suite dreams worth the hefty price tag? Absolutely not. And don’t expect anything special from the “elevated lounge experience”. But when a hotel cuts back on almost everything, serves breakfast behind the bar in the lobby (and charges for coffee refills), but most importantly no longer gives decade long employees their much anticipated Christmas bonus, then that says it all. Worst Intercontinental experience ever, with zero DA amenities despite asking nicely about it twice. The empty guest relations desk speaks volumes, too. Didn’t want to believe the other bad reviews, but sadly it was all true and then some."

"I wrote an email to the hotel ahead of our stay to let them know we were coming from Canada to celebrate our twin kids birthday. Asked if there was anything they could do to help celebrate but didn’t even get reply. The hotel not offering a slice of cake, balloons or anything else was not an issue . . . . . Thankfully Kevin at front desk, Jessica in the lounge bar and Angel (concierge) made our stay memorable. Shame the general manager doesn’t have the same level of professional courtesy or client care !!"

"So far a great experience. Combining status points and a bit of cash made the place quite affordable -- with Club access included (impressive service by the Club attendant) and an exceptional breakfast (described as "continental" but with hot selections, more than that). Room is spacious and clean and the overall hotel has a great feeling of character and comfort."

"This hotel is absolutely beautiful. Located in much quieter area but yet close enough to Rockefeller center, st Patrick’s cathedral, the diamond district and fifth avenue shopping. The morning buffet is good but not five star. It could be better but it was fine for not having to leave the hotel. Oh, heated bathroom floor, beautiful rooms, super comfortable bed and gorgeous sheets. Byredo bathroom products. This hotel is historic, beautiful and I highly recommend!!!!"

"We have stayed in many NYC hotels, most claiming to be luxury, in a variety of areas. The Barclay, however, backs up their claim as a top-notch luxury hotel. Everything from the kind, helpful, and welcoming staff to the food and drink was exceptional. The VIP amenities I received were definitely worth it! Breakfast was outstanding with everything you could want, hot and cold, pastries, salmon and bagels, many many hot items to choose from and different every day. One of my favorite parts of the hotel itself was the lobby/lounge and bar area. It was incredibly welcoming and social in the best way. The room itself was ideal with an extremely comfortable bed and well equipped with high-quality toiletries and an amazing mini-bar. The location of the Intercontinental was perfect. Just enough off 5th Ave to avoid the noise but just a couple blocks East to get there or Central Park or Time Square very quickly. Thank you Barclay! Can’t wait to return."