We stayed at the Gansevoort South for about 90 minutes. I know I’d sung its praises and all. But frankly it’s just shit. Totally unready to open, a building site on the beach, ceiling panels missing, hit a wrong floor on the elevator and you walk out into a building site. Bad service, lousy views and the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard – a refusal to cancel the bill for two stone cold forgotten grilled sandwiches (not forgotten by US) that was ‘I can’t do that as we sub-contract all the catering and you’ll have to speak to the bar that served you’. Funny given that the check I signed was in the name of the hotel. Not ready, not impressive and not clever.
The Tides, on Ocean Drive, on the other hand is a COMPLETELY different story. No just because in a moment that will shock and awe friends (Ben actually found the hotel and rate) but also because I simply couldn’t complain for the whole 5 days we were there. Impeccable rooms, outstanding service, and great cocktails. You couldn’t make it up really.
Ben’s always said that he never unpacks until I do. And in this instance we were both unpacked in moments and down on South Beach. I’m not one to complain, but I was upset that they had removed all valet parking charges ‘just because’ and continually gave us Voss water (which costs the GDP of a G8 nation in Soho House New York).
Thanks Tides, I think we’ll be back for my birthday. Yes Richard, not ONE complaint.
