Hello, I’m SINAE, a travel writer who spends nearly 300 days each year living abroad while continuing my work remotely.
This visit to New York was slightly different from my usual solo travels. I spent ten days in the city with my family – my sister and brother-in-law – which naturally required more careful planning. Traveling with multiple people introduces practical considerations that are easy to overlook when traveling alone. We hoped to secure connecting rooms if possible, and with a larger group, having either a proper kitchen or at least a microwave became an important priority.
I briefly considered Airbnb. However, based on past experience, consistency can be unpredictable. Cleaning standards vary, check-in procedures are often less seamless, and breakfast is typically not included. I generally prefer the reliability and structure of a professionally managed hotel. For these reasons, I ultimately chose Element New York Times Square West, a property designed specifically with extended stays and residential comfort in mind.
Location – Exceptionally Well Positioned in Midtown Manhattan
One of the most compelling advantages of Element New York Times Square West is its location. The hotel is approximately 0.4 miles(640m) from Times Square, about a ten-minute walk, placing it comfortably within the center of Manhattan’s most visited district.
Equally important, the Port Authority Bus Terminal is only a three-minute walk away. This provides convenient access to regional transportation, including buses to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), which makes airport transfers and day trips significantly easier.
Several key destinations are also within easy walking distance:
- Aladdin musical theater: approximately 6 minutes
- Target store: approximately 5 minutes
- Wolfgang’s Steakhouse: approximately 5 minutes
Because of this central location, most major attractions can be reached on foot. This allows for a more comfortable daily rhythm – exploring the city in the morning, returning to rest during the afternoon, and heading out again in the evening without relying heavily on transportation. In a city as dynamic as New York, this flexibility greatly enhances the overall experience.
The nightly rate was approximately $340. Notably, unlike many Manhattan hotels, Element New York Times Square West does not impose an additional destination fee, which helps keep the final cost more predictable.
First Impressions and Service Atmosphere
The overall atmosphere of Element New York Times Square West feels relaxed and practical, reflecting its residence-style concept. At the same time, there is an unmistakable sense of movement – very much in line with New York’s fast-paced environment.
What stood out most, however, was the demeanor of the front desk staff. While many New York hotels prioritize efficiency over warmth, the service here felt genuinely welcoming. The staff were approachable and kind, creating a noticeably more comfortable and reassuring arrival experience than I had encountered at some other New York properties.
👉 Element New York Times Square West – Check rates on Agoda
👉 Element New York Times Square West – Check rates on Expedia
Fully Equipped Kitchen – A Meaningful Advantage for Longer Stays
Perhaps the most defining feature of the stay was the fully equipped kitchen.
During previous extended stays in New York, one recurring challenge was the cost of dining. Even a simple hamburger can easily cost $35, and over a two-week period – especially when traveling with multiple people – these expenses accumulate quickly.
Having access to a proper kitchen changes this dynamic entirely.
Even without extensive cooking, a microwave alone makes it possible to prepare affordable meals, as grocery stores offer a wide range of high-quality frozen foods such as pasta and fried rice, often priced under $10.
What impressed me most about Element New York Times Square West was how thoughtfully and completely the kitchen was equipped. In many hotels, kitchen facilities exist in theory but lack the practical tools needed for real use. Here, however, the kitchen felt comparable to a well-equipped apartment.
It included:
- Microwave
- Two-burner induction cooktop
- Multiple cooking pots and a frying pan
- Vegetable strainer
- Cutting board and knives
- Full set of utensils, including forks, spoons, and serving tools
- Wine opener
- Dishwashing supplies
- Salt, pepper, and essential seasonings
- Kitchen towels (regularly replenished)
- Full set of plates and serving dishes
It was entirely possible to cook pasta, prepare salads, or even cook steak comfortably. Nearby grocery options, including Target and Korean markets, made it easy to purchase ingredients.
This level of functionality becomes especially valuable in New York, where dining costs are notably high. The refrigerator was also significantly larger than typical hotel units, with a proper freezer compartment, making it ideal for extended stays.
Complimentary Breakfast, Evening Drinks, and All-Day Coffee
Another standout feature of Element New York Times Square West is that breakfast is included for all guests, regardless of Marriott Bonvoy elite status.
At the time of booking, this almost seemed too generous to be accurate. However, every room category includes breakfast without exception.
The breakfast selection included a variety of bagels, fresh fruit, cereals, yogurt, and approximately four hot dishes. While not excessive, it was more than sufficient – and considering that it is fully complimentary, the quality and variety exceeded expectations.
Breakfast is served from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM, with slightly adjusted hours on weekends.
Additionally, from Monday through Thursday between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM, the hotel offers a complimentary evening social hour featuring beer, wine, and light cold cuts such as cheese. The beer selection rotates regularly and included options such as Brooklyn craft beer, Corona, and Heineken, alongside both red and white wines. These thoughtful touches enhanced the overall experience in subtle but meaningful ways.
One particularly surprising and valuable amenity was the complimentary coffee station located on the ground floor. Fresh coffee, tea, and decaffeinated coffee were available throughout the entire day.
Guests could either take their drinks to go or sit comfortably in the lobby. Having access to coffee at any time not only added convenience but also reduced the need to purchase coffee elsewhere- a small detail that became surprisingly valuable over the course of a longer stay.
Marriott Bonvoy Elite Benefits
Although breakfast is already included for all guests, Marriott Bonvoy elite members can still benefit from preferential room assignments at Element New York Times Square West.
Priority is typically given for:
- Higher-floor rooms
- Corner rooms when available
- Connecting rooms for families traveling together
High-floor rooms offer particularly rewarding views, including sightlines toward the Empire State Building and Edge Observatory. These views reinforce the sense of being fully immersed in New York’s skyline.
Final Thoughts – A Well-Balanced and Practical Choice in Manhattan
Overall, Element New York Times Square West offers a thoughtful balance of location, functionality, and overall value. For families, longer stays, or travelers who prefer a more independent and practical lodging experience, it stands out as a highly compelling option.
The fully equipped kitchen alone can significantly reduce daily expenses, while the inclusion of complimentary breakfast, evening beverages, and all-day coffee enhances the comfort of the stay. Combined with its central location and welcoming service atmosphere, the hotel delivers a level of practicality that is increasingly difficult to find in Midtown Manhattan.
Another meaningful advantage is that luggage storage is provided free of charge both before check-in and after check-out until approximately 7 PM. While this may seem like a standard service, many New York hotels charge additional fees for luggage storage, making this a genuinely valuable convenience.
For travelers visiting New York with family or friends – particularly those planning to stay more than a few nights – Element New York Times Square West represents a reliable, comfortable, and highly practical place to stay.
This was not the most luxurious hotel I stayed in New York, but it was easily one of the most practical and comfortable for a longer stay.
※This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.