By L. Roberts
Chambre Queen, Mansfield Hotel
Designed in 1890 by master architect James Renwick (also famous for designing Saint Patrick's Cathedral and the
New York Public Library), the Mansfield Hotel is a beaux arts masterpiece from a bygone era. Notable patrons of the hotel include poet William Butler Yeats, as well as Maz von Gurach, who is widely believed to be the inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby." Current-day socialites and celebrities flock to the hotel for its trendy bar, as well as its luxurious rooms.
Features
With so many amenities, it's almost impossible to list them all. The Mansfield Hotel is truly a first-rate destination for those who can afford its charms. Gorgeous modern rooms have dark hardwood floors, pillow-top mattresses and flat-screen TVs while downstairs the hotel has a chic, old-fashioned look.
The Club Room is a beautifully restored library, complete with a working fireplace and authentic London phone booth. Complimentary cappuccinos are available here 24-hours a day to fuel your nocturnal chess games. Check out M Bar's live jazz scene on Tuesday through Thursday evenings, or sample their signature cocktail, Violet's Blueberry Martini. Cutting-edge gym facilities help guests to keep fit, even while on vacation.
Pros and Cons
So many great amenities you may never want to leave the hotel! Technologically advanced details--like iPod docks on the room's alarm clocks and flat-screen televisions--give a contemporary touch to the historical hotel.
Aveda bath products in each room provide a touch of class. Club Room and M Bar offer elegant surroundings for wining and dining, or even reading a book by the fire. Within walking distance of great restaurants, Broadway shows and, of course, plenty of shopping. Free wireless Internet access is a great perk, though the price tag undoubtedly reflects this. The Mansfield is a pet-friendly hotel, for those traveling with four-legged friends.
Bottom Line
Whether you choose to stay in one of the Mansfield's regular rooms or upgrade to their dazzling Renwick Duplex Penthouse, the deciding factor here is luxury. The Mansfield is certainly not for everyone, due to its trendy price tag. However, if you've got the cash to spare, your stay here will be well worth the price of entry.
For those who can't afford to stay at this posh hotel, do stop by the M Bar for one of their signature cocktails and a glimpse of the good life. Be sure to check the hotel's Website for exciting package deals and promotions.
Resources
About the Author:
Laura Roberts is the editor-in-chief of Black Heart Magazine and author of the weekly sex column, "V for Vixen," at Hour.ca. She is currently working on her first book, a guide to the sexy side of Montreal.
