Hotel Tip of the Week: Hotel Casablanca – Prime Times Square Stay in NYC
Welcome to our Hotel Tip of the Week series. As full-time nomads with over 500 nights in hotels worldwide, we've experienced the best (and worst) accommodations from budget to luxury. We only recommend hotels we've personally stayed in on Globetrottergirls.com – those that are comfortable, clean, offer great value, and treat guests like family.
After a bustling day in New York City, Dani and I relaxed in our room at Hotel Casablanca with feet up and wine in hand, watching Broadway and 7th Avenue lights flicker off the skyscrapers. This Times Square gem's unbeatable location steals the show.
The third HK Hotels property we visited in NYC, it exemplifies their boutique excellence with meticulous details and top-tier service. Steps from the action, its Moroccan-inspired vibe – rich browns and oranges, bronze lions, peacock feathers, exotic plants, and ornate tiled columns – transports you to Africa in the lounge and rooms.
The second-floor lounge hosts a lavish daily continental breakfast and a three-hour evening champagne reception, with 24/7 coffee, tea, and nibbles. A standout in 90°F heat: DIY iced coffee instructions, takeaway cups, and ample ice – all complimentary, like high-speed Wi-Fi, breakfast, and receptions across HK Hotels.
Rooms are compact for Manhattan but cozy with plush beds, iPod docks, large flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and a reception DVD library, plus spacious bathrooms.
Standout Feature: Unbeatable Location
Just around the corner from Times Square, it's walkable to the Empire State Building, Broadway theaters, restaurants, bars, and NYC attractions. Perfect for New Year's Eve – enjoy fireworks and the ball drop from the rooftop!
Room for Improvement: Air Conditioning
Like many older Manhattan buildings, it uses window AC units, which were noisy for TV viewing. Evenings cooled off, but noise-sensitive guests might prefer central systems.
Overall Verdict
Hotel Casablanca is a serene oasis amid NYC's energy – ideal for Broadway fans or Times Square immersion.
Location: 147 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036
Price: Starting at $224 per night
LGBT Friendly: Yes
Digital Nomad Friendly: Yes
Amenities: DVD players & library, free Wi-Fi, afternoon wine & cheese, included breakfast, free gym passes, 24/7 snacks & coffee, gratis newspapers.
Website: www.casablancahotel.com
