The Plaza by Matthew Barker

Swellegant Fifth Avenue dignitary (a National Historic Landmark no less and, apparently, NYC’s most popular movie location). A recent facelift of this faux French chateau hotel has restored all that fabled 30s glam, allowing residents to live out their Gatsbyesque fantasies in deliciously swank surroundings: mahogany fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, marble bathrooms, gilt-edged comfort. Most rooms and (massive) suites overlook Central Park. 745 rooms (60 suites). Member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

Hotel Attractions: The Oak Room is a hushed, tuxedoed chophouse and long-time Manhattan favourite; the Oak Bar one time haunt of Hemmingway, Fitzgerald et al; Palm Court a colonial-style lobby for afternoon tea, while the Oyster Bar’s big on Ye Olde English Pub ambience. Health club with spa services, steam and sauna rooms, Jacuzzi and aerobic equipment. Jewellers, gift shops and salons on-site.

Local Attractions: Upper East Side park life is a moneyed mix of culture (Metropolitan Museum of Art, Guggenheim, International Center of Photography), consumerism (Madison Avenue’s bag ladies) and chichi chow (some decent restaurants on the doorstep - Beacon, Tinos, Aureole - plenty of big hitters a cab ride away).