Two West Street; +1 212 344 0800

Location This superb modern hotel, just three compact blocks from Wall Street, boasts the best position in this rejuvenated tip of Manhattan. The views – especially from the rooftop bar and waterside rooms – are truly magnificent; the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the harbour and the downtown skyline make you question the sanity of ever venturing into chaotic Midtown again. Should you really need to, a cab fare is around $15, although Wall Street subway is only a short walk away.

Style. Although in terms of comfort and service this has the Ritz-Carlton DNA, Battery Park is far sleeker than most of the group’s shrines to opulence. While the views and enticing weekend rates make it a good choice for the discerning leisure-seeker, this is primarily a business hotel – the 14th-floor Rise bar is perfect for that deal-clinching martini; predictably, the 2 WEST steakhouse has a baritone buzz. This is one five-star New York lobby where laptops heavily outnumber lapdogs. More indulgent pampering, such as deep-tissue or hot-stone massage, is available at the Prada Beauty Spa. Disappointingly, though, there is no pool.

Guestrooms There are 298 guest rooms, including 40 suites, and all are pleasingly unfrilly, well-appointed and particularly large for New York. Naturally, bedding is plush (Frette linens, feather duvets and goose-down pillows), bathrooms are marbled and toiletries Bulgari. Obviously, harbour view rooms have a wow factor; Club-level rooms have entry to a private lounge with its own concierge and complimentary breakfasts, snacks, hors d’ œuvres and drinks. While this sanctuary has no views – no windows at all, in fact – it has a computer and can be an economical choice if you need to grab an early breakfast.

Can I work here? Wi-fiis available throughout. In-room desks are large; lighting and powerpoints good; and chairs ergonomically sound. The hotel also has a business centre, secretarial and technical support and more than 1,000m2 of meeting space.

www.ritzcarlton.com