Sure, it’s the city that never sleeps, but that’s no excuse for tired-looking hotel rooms.

A recent recce of Manhattan’s most modern places to stay was something of a wake-up call - and a reminder to delve beyond the glossy internet images and seductive superlatives.

Fortunately, with around 70,000 places to lay your head in NYC, there is a lot of choice, so make it the right one.

Comfort, quality, central location, impeccable service and high standards come in abundance - if you do your homework.

My top recommendation if you’re planning to visit the Big Apple has to be Archer Hotel in Midtown Manhattan.

"A hotel should be more than just a place to stay. Your comfort, your curiosity, and your love of the details large and small make the experience."

Archer Hotel

Situated in the Garment district, it’s fitting that this super stylish boutique hotel is dressed to impress.

From the plush lobby to the stunning Spyglass Rooftop Bar, you won’t fail to be wowed.

The 180 rooms, like most in New York City, are on the snug side, but floor to ceiling windows give an incredible sense of space - with many offering jaw-dropping views of the Empire State Building.

You’re just blocks away from the Theater District, Times Square, Rockafeller Center, Central Park and Penn Station – but you don’t have to stray too far to experience some delicious dining with David Burke’s buzzing fabrick restaurant a central part of Archer’s offering.

Modern American cuisine is served around the open kitchen – and boy, it’s good. Emphasis is on sharing and seasonal produce from snacks to small plates – and what better way to end the evening than with a cocktail (or two) in the rooftop bar with its breathtaking view of the Empire State Building.

It’s a hotel that feels proud to be in the hospitality industry where guests are genuinely welcomed and treated to five-star service.

I’ve already booked to return next year – and can’t wait.

Note: This entire trip was paid for by the reviewer.

Archer factfile:

Suggested alternatives include:

The Hudson. A hip hotel with a young vibe just two blocks from Central Park. It's not quite on the same level as Archer in terms of meticulous attention to detail and quality furnishings - but with almost 900 rooms you can forgive its lack of intimacy. It's got a vibrant bar, terrace and nightclub so makes a great choice for groups and those who don't do stuffy hotel stays. The helpful and friendly staff are an added bonus.

Ink48. Although a little further out in comparison (it's one block from the Hudson river), this statement hotel is still very convenient and boasts one of the city's best views of the majestic Manhattan skyline. Rooms are impeccable - and some very spacious which is something of a rarity - and there's a complimentary wine hour for guests in the lobby, as well as a spa and acclaimed restaurant on the site of this former printing house.

Row. A contemporary hotel on Times Square's doorstep. Newly refurbished rooms marry 'urban grit with grandeur' where street photography on every corridor adds glamour to otherwise nondescript hallways. City Kitchen is a new eating concept offering an indoor food market with a melody of mouth-watering foods, plus there's an open all hours store on site - should the 24/7 culture right outside be a step too far!