The Vue Express @ 39th Street

This hotel is often described as a practical choice for those seeking a quick overnight stay or a budget-friendly option, particularly for sightseers and short-term visitors due to its strategic location. Its signature feature is its accessibility to public transportation, making it a convenient base for exploring New York City. While some guests find it to be a hidden gem for a brief stop, others report significant issues with room conditions and cleanliness. The staff generally receives praise for their friendliness, though some experiences highlight inconsistencies in service. For budget-conscious travelers, the hotel offers a basic accommodation, but it is advisable to confirm parking availability beforehand, as spaces are extremely limited.

Facilities & Amenities
Many guests report a lack of essential in-room amenities, noting the absence of a mini-fridge, desk, or chair in most rooms, which can make extended stays challenging. There is also a frequent complaint about the lack of an iron and ironing board, as well as basic bathroom conveniences like a shower caddy or washcloths. While Wi-Fi is available, its reliability and speed are inconsistent, with some guests experiencing poor connectivity. Similarly, televisions often have limited channels, signal issues, or sound problems. The elevator is noted by some as being located outside the main building, raising concerns about security.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is highly mixed, with many guests reporting significant issues. Rooms are consistently described as very small and cramped, often lacking sufficient space to move around or store luggage. While some guests found their rooms to be clean and neat, a substantial number reported dirty walls, stained linens, and the presence of dust, hair, and unpleasant odors, including cigarette smoke. More concerningly, several reviews mention severe issues such as bed bugs and cockroaches. Beds are frequently described as uncomfortable, saggy, or worn out, impacting sleep quality. Bathrooms, while sometimes noted as newly renovated, also receive complaints about cleanliness in corners and missing fixtures.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a continental breakfast, which is generally perceived as very basic and often disappointing. Guests mention options like milk, coffee, and granola bars, but there is no hot breakfast available. Some reviews specifically highlight the poor quality of items such as stale muffins and warm juice. A severe hygiene concern was raised by one guest who reported finding cockroaches in the cereal provided at breakfast. Overall, the dining experience is not a highlight for most guests, who often seek food options outside the hotel.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is frequently cited as one of its strongest advantages. Situated in a Brooklyn neighborhood, it offers easy access to the subway, typically within a 10-minute walk, providing convenient transportation to Manhattan and other parts of New York City. Guests appreciate its proximity to various restaurants and shops, making it easy to find dining and shopping options nearby. It is also considered a good base for those embarking on a cruise due to its relative closeness to port areas. While the neighborhood is generally perceived as safe, some guests have noted it can be hilly and busy.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel receives highly varied feedback. Many guests commend the team for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, particularly at the front desk, and for assisting with parking challenges. Some highlight specific individuals for their excellent customer service and willingness to go the extra mile, such as allowing early check-ins. However, a notable number of reviews describe negative experiences, including instances of rude staff, unhelpful responses to complaints, and issues with communication. There are also recurring reports of staff being uncooperative regarding guest policies, leading to uncomfortable situations for visitors.

Additional Information
A significant point of contention for many guests is the hotel's guest policy, with several reviews indicating that visitors are not permitted in rooms, leading to uncomfortable confrontations and threats of eviction. This policy is not always clearly communicated upon check-in, causing frustration for guests who wish to have friends or family visit. The hotel also appears to offer short-stay or hourly rates, which some guests found convenient for brief stops. Many reviews suggest that the property is in need of major renovations and better upkeep, with common areas and rooms showing signs of wear and tear.