I recently traveled to New York from San Francisco on business and was looking to experience a New York state of mind.  Instead I got a mix of LA Style and New York location at Le Parker Meridien.

This chic hotel is just off 5th Avenue near the park. It's a fantastic location, close to subways, shopping and great restaurants (yes it's just a couple blocks from Carnegie Deli too... so you can get your Matzoh Ball on...)

The first thing that strikes you about this hotel is the price. It's difficult to get in for less than $200 a night.  But the second thing that strikes you is its looks. If this hotel was a woman it would be Claudia Schiffer. Elegant, well dressed, a little snobby and jaw dropping hot! Every public and private space within the hotel is well appointed with the most fashionable furniture and pricey materials.

After checking into my room, I nearly decided to move in for good. Stylish and large with some ingenious space saving techniques. A large flat screen TV is mounted on a maple armoire that spins 360 degrees so it can be viewed in either the living room, office section or bed. The desk is setup right at the window with an Aeron ($1,500) chair and a high speed t1 connection.  Large bathroom with a funky design.  Bed was extremely comfortable.

The crowd is young with some French tourists mixed in.  There is a killer health club (Gravity) along with a fantastic rooftop pool along with a rooftop sun deck.  

The true scene is at Norma's Breakfast where I dined on creme brulee french toast and cold stacked Cream of Wheat (I swear it was good). This place is known throughout the state for it's breakfast and Eugene Levy (American Pie, etc.) who was sitting next to me, wholeheartedly agreed. (We then had an awkward discussion about girlie magazines). Be prepared to spend at least $20 on breakfast, but it's worth it.

If you can splurge a little... the Parker Meridien is your place.

Here's the website: www.parkermeridien.com