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Summary of reviewsPod 39, situated in the heart of Manhattan, is highly praised for its prime location, making it an excellent base for exploring New York City's iconic landmarks. Guests appreciate its proximity to major attractions like Grand Central Station, Times Square and the Empire State Building. The neighborhood of Murray Hill offers a safe, quieter ambiance while still providing easy access to the bustling Midtown area. The presence of numerous restaurants, shops and public transport options nearby adds to its convenience. Additionally, the hotel’s amenities, such as a rooftop bar with spectacular views and cozy communal spaces, contribute positively to guests’ experiences.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at Pod 39 with frequent commendations for the diligent housekeeping staff who ensure rooms are tidied daily and left spotless. This, combined with the hotel's modern and minimalistic decor, creates a fresh and contemporary atmosphere that guests find welcoming. The friendly and professional staff further enhance the experience by providing excellent customer service and attending to guests' needs promptly.
The rooms at Pod 39, while extremely compact, are well-suited for solo travelers or short stays. Despite their small size, the rooms are functional, efficiently laid out and equipped with comfortable beds and necessary amenities. Cleanliness and daily maintenance are consistently mentioned as highlights. Some guests, however, noted occasional noise issues and wear in the decor. Nevertheless, the majority found the rooms to be a budget-friendly and well-maintained option.
Pod 39 offers a mixed breakfast and dining experience. The complimentary morning coffee and tea are well-received, though the breakfast options could benefit from more variety and healthier choices. Despite occasional closures and limited menus at the in-house restaurant, guests enjoy the rooftop bar’s ambiance and views, as well as the lively atmosphere of the ground floor café/bar. The surrounding neighborhood provides ample dining options, making it easy for guests to explore various cuisines nearby.
Wi-Fi experiences at Pod 39 vary with some guests enjoying reliable and fast connections, while others report issues with slow and unstable service. Parking is another area with mixed feedback, as the hotel does not offer free parking and nearby options can be costly and limited. However, the midtown location allows easy access to metro stations, mitigating some parking concerns.
Nightlife around Pod 39 is highlighted by its vibrant rooftop bar, which boasts stunning city views and creates a lively atmosphere for socializing. Guests also enjoy the cozy and fun common areas within the hotel, such as the basement and lobby bars and lounges equipped with ping pong and billiards tables.
Bed comfort is generally well-regarded with many guests praising the quality of the mattresses and pillows, contributing to a pleasant sleeping experience. Though some found the beds small or narrow for two people, the cleanliness and overall presentation were appreciated.
Overall, Pod 39 stands out as a comfortable, mid-range hotel in a prime location, offering excellent value for money. Its blend of cleanliness, friendly staff, convenient amenities and strategic location makes it an appealing choice for travelers exploring New York City. Show more
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Categories
Cheap Hotel
Pod 39 provides a reasonably priced stay in Midtown. It's known for its convenience and efficient use of space, ideal for travelers focused on exploring the city.
3-Star Hotel
This hotel offers a stylish and budget-friendly option near Grand Central Terminal. Its rooftop bar and social atmosphere make it a popular choice for younger travelers.
Historic Hotel
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
Room Types
Single PodThis air-conditioned room features city views, a work desk and a cable TV. An en suite bathroom equipped with a hairdryer is also included.
Full PodThis air-conditioned room features city views, a work desk and a cable TV. An en suite bathroom equipped with a hairdryer is also included.
Twin PodThis air-conditioned room features city views, a work desk and a cable TV. An en suite bathroom equipped with a hairdryer is also included.
Queen PodThis air-conditioned room features city views, a work desk and a cable TV. An en suite bathroom equipped with a hairdryer is also included.
ADA Queen PodThe unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.2
Very Good
Location
Located in the heart of Manhattan, Pod 39 boasts an enviable position that’s highly praised by guests. Its central location places it within walking distance to major landmarks such as Grand Central Station, Times Square and the Empire State Building, making it an ideal base for exploring New York City. The surroundings are dotted with numerous restaurants, shops and public transport options, adding to the convenience.
Guests emphasize the neighborhood’s safeness and the leafy, quieter ambiance of Murray Hill, which still provides easy access to the hustle and bustle of Midtown. The proximity to Grand Central Station is particularly highlighted as it offers excellent connectivity for travel within the city, including links to the airport.
Reviews mention the hotel’s excellent value for money, especially considering its prime location. The staff receives frequent commendations for their friendliness, helpfulness and efficiency. The hotel’s amenities, such as a rooftop bar with spectacular views and cozy communal spaces, contribute positively to the guests’ experiences.
In summary, Pod 39 is celebrated for its strategic location, making it a preferred choice for both business and leisure travelers looking to explore the city’s iconic sites with ease.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Pod 39 Hotel is characterized by the provision of complimentary coffee and tea each morning, which many guests found to be a delightful touch. While the availability of free morning coffee was repeatedly praised for its quality and convenience, the breakfast offerings themselves were somewhat limited. Guests noted the option to purchase pastries and fruit, albeit at somewhat high prices, especially for Manhattan.
Several reviewers suggested that the breakfast could benefit from more variety and healthier options with some expressing the wish for breakfast to be included in the room rate. Despite this, the overall breakfast experience was described as adequate with some guests appreciating the cozy and spacious breakfast room as a pleasant place to socialize or work.
Though there were mixed feelings about the value and diversity of the breakfast items, the complimentary morning coffee and tea were consistently highlighted as a positive aspect of the stay.
Dinner
Pod 39 offers a mixed dining experience with several positive aspects highlighted by guests. A standout feature is the in-house bar, complemented by its incredible rooftop views, creating a unique ambiance for cocktails and casual gatherings. Guests have also enjoyed the lively atmosphere and cool vibe of the bar and table tennis area, as well as the ground floor café/bar which provides a pleasant spot for breakfast and coffee.
However, the hotel’s rooftop and main restaurant have seen frequent closures for renovations, much to the disappointment of some visitors. While the rooftop restaurant's simple and somewhat limited menu has received mixed reviews, the surrounding neighborhood compensates with a plethora of dining options. Guests have pointed out numerous good restaurants within walking distance, making it convenient to explore and enjoy various cuisines nearby. Additionally, the cafes and eateries in the vicinity have received commendations for their quality and variety, offering great alternatives to those unavailable in the hotel.
Though there were some concerns about the cost and availability of food and the operating hours of the bar, the excellent location and stunning views from the rooftop remain notable features that guests appreciate.
Rooms
The rooms at Pod 39 are primarily designed for solo travelers or short stays due to their extremely compact size. Most guests consistently highlighted the smallness of the rooms, often describing them as tiny, cramped or narrow. Despite this, many found the rooms to be efficiently laid out, functional and equipped with all necessary amenities, including comfortable beds and daily cleaning services. The rooms' cleanliness was frequently praised with housekeeping maintaining high standards daily.
The stylish, modern design of the rooms was noted by several reviewers, though some mentioned that the decor seemed tired or worn in places. The bathrooms, although functional and often featuring nice showers, sometimes had issues with size, privacy due to see-through doors and occasional maintenance problems like leaking sinks or short shower curtains.
Noise levels were a concern for some with mentions of loud air conditioning units and general street noise, though a few enjoyed the quiet despite the hotel’s bustling location. Views from the rooms varied with some offering stunning sights of the Empire State Building while others faced less appealing rooftops or walls.
In summary, Pod 39 offers a budget-friendly, well-located option in NYC, particularly suited for solo travelers. The rooms, though very small, are clean, functional and well-maintained, providing a comfortable stay with all the essentials for a few days' visit. However, potential guests should be prepared for the limited space and the occasional noise from the surroundings.
Beds
Nestled in the heart of the city, 'Pod 39' has garnered generally positive feedback regarding its beds from guests. Many reviews highlight the comfort of the beds, often described as comfy, cozy and very comfortable with several guests noting the excellent quality of the mattresses and pillows. The beds are frequently praised for their softness, contributing to an overall pleasant sleeping experience.
While some guests pointed out that the beds could be a bit small or narrow for two people and a few mentioned that the mattresses were either too hard or saggy in places, the consensus remains largely favorable. Bunk beds, although not universally well-received, were still considered comfy for a short stay. Many appreciated the clean and well-maintained beddings with several mentioning the cleanliness and overall presentation of the bed.
However, a few guests did note issues such as noise from the beds and the lack of padding on some mattresses. Despite occasional minor inconveniences, the beds at 'Pod 39' are often seen as one of the highlights, making it a comfortable choice for travelers looking for a good night’s rest in a bustling urban environment.
Cleanliness
Pod 39 has garnered positive feedback primarily for its exemplary cleanliness. Guests frequently mention that the hotel and its rooms, though small, are consistently very clean. Housekeeping services are diligent, ensuring rooms are tidied daily and left spotless. The hotel's modern and minimalistic decor also gives it a fresh and contemporary feel. Visitors appreciate the clean and comfortable atmosphere, noting that the rooms are well-maintained with clean sheets and towels provided regularly. Additionally, the public spaces within the hotel are noted to be safe and well-maintained. Despite some occasional disturbances by housekeeping and isolated cleanliness issues in some bathrooms, the overall impression of Pod 39 is that it is a clean and efficient place to stay, meeting the expectations for cleanliness consistently well.
Staff
Guest reviews for Pod 39 reveal a predominantly positive picture of the hotel staff, emphasizing their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Many reviews highlight the promptness and efficiency of the reception team, frequently describing encounters as warm, courteous and accommodating. Housekeeping staff also receive praise for their diligent and attentive service.
Several guests commend the staff for going the extra mile, providing excellent customer service and assisting with various needs such as early check-ins, room upgrades and addressing issues quickly. Specific members of the staff are occasionally mentioned for their exceptional support and effort, enhancing guests' overall experiences. A recurring theme in the positive feedback is the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff, making check-in and check-out processes smooth and hassle-free.
Despite the overwhelming positive sentiments, there are some mentions of sarcastic or unfriendly interactions at the reception. A few guests noted instances of unhelpfulness and poor training in customer service, which slightly tarnish the otherwise commendable reputation.
Overall, the staff at Pod 39 are generally described as friendly, professional and dedicated to delivering a pleasant stay for their guests with only occasional lapses in service quality.
Wi-Fi
Pod 39 offers an array of Wi-Fi experiences, ranging from excellent to problematic. Many guests found the Wi-Fi to be good, reliable and even blazingly fast at times with free access throughout the hotel and some rooms offering strong and high-speed connections. The complimentary coffee alongside the Wi-Fi was noted as a lovely touch.
However, several guests experienced significant issues, describing the service as unreliable, slow and unstable. Specific complaints highlighted weak signals in certain rooms and areas, such as the bathrooms and the lobby. Some reported periods with no connection at all, impacting their ability to use the internet for activities like business meetings or streaming.
While some guests appreciated consistent and fast Wi-Fi, others faced persistent challenges, suggesting a need for network upgrades. Overall, Wi-Fi performance at Pod 39 appears mixed with positive experiences tempered by notable inconsistencies.
Parking
Pod 39 has received mixed feedback regarding its parking facilities. Guests consistently highlighted that the hotel does not offer free parking and the cost for parking varies, typically around $35-$45 per day with no in-and-out privileges. Some reviewers found plentiful parking nearby with convenient options like Icon Parking located just three minutes away.
The hotel's midtown location ensures easy access to major metro stations, making it a good base for exploring the city. However, guests noted that parking availability is limited and, at times, the instructions provided by the hotel on where to park were unclear or vague. Additionally, parking off-site or on the street was sometimes necessary, which some found inconvenient and congested.
Overall, while there are several parking options within a short distance from Pod 39, clarity and convenience were points of concern for many guests. There were suggestions that the hotel could improve by showing parking options in advance and providing clearer instructions on parking facilities. Despite these issues, the proximity to major locations and the cost-effective parking solutions around the area were appreciated by several visitors.
Nightlife
The nightlife around Pod 39 offers an array of vibrant options for socializing and relaxation, centered largely around its standout feature: the rooftop bar. This rooftop venue is frequently highlighted for its stunning city views, creating an inviting atmosphere for enjoying drinks and social gatherings. Guests rave about the rooftop's ambiance, describing it as a great spot to watch the sunset or enjoy the lively evening scene.
Inside the hotel, the basement and lobby bars provide additional cozy and fun spaces to unwind. These bars are well-regarded for their friendly staff, convenient meal options and overall pleasant experiences, making them excellent alternatives when the rooftop bar isn’t accessible.
The surrounding neighborhood contributes to the lively experience, offering a variety of dining options and bars within walking distance, although some guests noted that the immediate area lacks nightlife venues. Despite this, the hotel's central location and safe environment make it easy to explore the city’s nightlife.
Common areas within the hotel, such as the lounges equipped with ping pong and billiards tables, add to the social vibe. The hotel’s proximity to popular spots like Peter Dillons, Alfred’s Bar and Hendrick’s further enriches the nighttime experience for guests, especially solo travelers looking for cool and safe hangouts. While the rooms are described as small, the exceptional location and vibrant bar offerings more than compensate, contributing to an overall enjoyable stay at Pod 39.
3 Star
Pod 39 stands out as a comfortable mid-range hotel in the heart of New York City, specifically near Grand Central. Many reviews highlight its cleanliness, neatness and the overall excellent value it offers for its price point. The property is consistently described as providing great service and convenience typical of a three-star hotel with some guests even noting it feels nicer than its rating suggests. The rooftop bar is a notable feature, adding extra charm to the stay.
Despite some guests feeling it might not fully meet the three-star standard in terms of cleanliness, the majority agree that Pod 39 offers decent three-star amenities and accommodations. Its competitive pricing, especially for its prime NYC location, makes it an appealing option with a basic yet satisfactory breakfast included. The hotel’s value for money and central location are frequently praised, making it a highly recommended choice for visitors looking for an affordable stay in Manhattan.
Business
Pod 39 offers a well-rounded experience for business travelers, consistently meeting the needs of those visiting New York City for work. Its location proves to be an asset, being ideally situated close to business centers in Manhattan, making it convenient for meetings and interactions with other professionals. The facility features well-thought-out and functional spaces, which contributes to a relaxed atmosphere perfect for solo travelers on business trips. Efficient room designs and a fair price for the offerings enhance the appeal for business stays.
Pod 39 is notably clean and boasts efficient check-in and check-out processes, adding to the ease of stay. Guests also appreciated the main room dedicated to professionals, which serves as a helpful space to meet and network. There are additional amenities like a cool bar and reception desks that can be used for meetings.
However, while the hotel is equipped for business travelers and provides various conveniences, it does have some drawbacks. Issues like the occasional slow wifi and the lack of a proper business center area may affect those needing dedicated workspace and reliable internet for virtual meetings.
Overall, Pod 39 stands out for its business-oriented design, ideal location and functional facilities, making it a solid choice for business travelers visiting New York City.
Accessible
'Pod 39' boasts a highly accessible location with its proximity to significant travel hubs like Grand Central Station, making it easy to reach for guests from all over. Travelers will appreciate the seamless access to popular landmarks, including the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building and Times Square, all within walking distance. The neighborhood itself is welcoming and convenient, featuring several stores for daily necessities.
When it comes to the hotel's infrastructure, 'Pod 39' is commendable. The property is equipped with elevators, ensuring that all rooms are reachable without the need for stairs. Specifically, the hotel offers wheelchair-accessible rooms and rooms suited to elderly travelers, indicating a thoughtful consideration for guests with varying mobility needs. The rooms are reported to have accessible features and are overall fitting for handicapped individuals.
Despite these positives, there was an isolated mention of the bathroom door not being private enough for occupants in the same room, which might be a minor concern for some guests. However, 'Pod 39' excels in offering an accessible environment overall, making it a suitable choice for travelers looking for convenience and ease of mobility.
Historic
Located in a historically significant area, 'Pod 39' stands out as a meticulously designed hotel that carries the charm of its old warehouse origins. Its historic architecture is reminiscent of iconic structures like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, making it a memorable stay for history aficionados. Convenient features such as early check-in, late check-out and complimentary secure luggage storage enhance the experience. Families should note that while the hotel is family-friendly, space might be a bit tight for a family of four. Positioned near attractions like Bryant Park, 'Pod 39' offers a convenient and enriching stay in a historic setting.
Dog Friendly
Pod 39 does not cater to guests traveling with dogs. Despite one review mentioning it as pet friendly, a closer look reveals that this is not accurate. The hotel maintains a strict no-pet policy, making it clear that pets are disallowed. This non-dog property ensures a pet-free environment, aligning with its policy that does not permit pets on the premises. Therefore, travelers with dogs would need to consider alternative accommodations.