Excerpts from this post were originally published on the TravelingMom.com site. This is a review for the Trump International Hotel and Tower. I was offered a media rate for my family and I to stay and experience the Trump Hotel at the Central Park Location.

It’s no surprise my family are big fans of the Trump Resort Collection. We also love the Trump Las Vegas.

My husband and I took our two older kids on a trip to the Big Apple for the holidays. Looking for the most perfect place to stay during our White Christmas style escapade, we happened upon the sophisticated luxury of the Trump International Hotel and Tower. As our car headed past the world’s largest menorah, Columbus Circle came into view, and the horse-drawn carriages of Central Park pulled up next to us, I spotted the distinct black and gold Trump tower and exhaled. We did it right.

kids columbus circle

A smartly dressed door man greeted our vehicle with a contagious smile, and welcomed us to the Trump International Hotel and Tower. The grand glass doors were opened for us, as we piled into the intimate lobby saving us from the chilled air outside. Check-in was a breeze, mainly because I had stayed in constant touch with the Front Desk, as well as enrolled in the Trump Card Privileges program, completing our Guest Profile on-line. The hotel staff was already aware of the types of pillows we requested, the tea we preferred, and the names and ages of our children.

A friendly bell hop escorted us to the 17th floor. It was love at first site for me. Don’t get me wrong, I adore walking into grand lobbies with elegant features that make you feel like you have arrived, but when you are in a city that doesn’t sleep, with two children, it’s kind of nice to feel a little more important than that. The one thing I loved about the Trump International Hotel and Tower is not just the fact that it is perfectly placed in one of the best spots in Manhattan, but that it is first and foremost a residential building. Each unit is individually owned, and maintained by the hotel management and staff at a level you would expect of nothing less from the Trump brand. It is quiet and calm, yet my family felt very welcomed there. Usually, I am on my two older children like a hawk making sure they are practicing their absolute best behavior. The hospitable staff at the Trump International Hotel and Tower, however, had them laughing and chatting in the lobby. Every time we popped out of the elevator, our kids felt like a million bucks- truthfully, they were the celebrities during our stay, which gave Mom a sigh of relief.

trump kids

That was also confirmed the minute we walked into our room. Each child was gifted a Trump Kids back pack filled with fun goodies. Each night, their little slippers and robes were laid out for them, and a tiny token of chocolate covered animal crackers placed neatly at their turn down service. Being the little entrepreneur that he is, my son’s favorite item was the personalized business cards. My daughter loved her own letterhead stationery.

Another noteworthy amenity for families is the ability to order groceries delivered to your room prior to your arrival. This can be done through the Trump Card Privileges Program, and it was a great find. We stayed in a One Bedroom City View Suite, though every room has a European-style kitchen equipped with modern appliances: refrigerator, freezer, microwave, stove-top and oven. The cabinets are full of glass ware, dishes, and utensils. Again, such a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the outside world, especially with children. It was a major stress reliever to make a cup of coffee while getting ready and feeding the kids breakfast so you can head out on your big day’s adventure! Speaking of coffee- I thought I was testing the staff by ordering specific products that we are used to having at home. All natural, organic and name brand items, such as Starbucks coffee and hot chocolate mix, were highlighted on my list. Every single one of them was present in the kitchen when we walked in that day. I’m telling you, it made my trip to have my Starbucks Christmas Blend right there in my room. A special perk, however, is the two complimentary bottles of water each day, and a selection of coffee and tea for your Keurig coffee pot.

Trump kitchen collage

Though our itinerary was too full to enjoy the other fabulous amenities at Trump International Hotel and Tower this time, I did manage a sneak peek at the Spa. Recently renovated and absolutely gorgeous, if you can find the time to escape for an hour or two, do it. Included in the trip to the spa is a trip to the gym, complete with the latest equipment in the fitness circuit, as well as a 55- foot indoor lap pool, personal trainers upon request, steam and sauna. They even offer special fitness and spa programs for the tween set and up in your life.

trump international collage

Finally, one of the most unforgettable features at the Trump International Hotel and Tower are the two restaurants owned and operated by three-star Michelin rated chef, Jean Georges. One of my most favorite restaurants in Las Vegas is found at the Aria Resort and Casino, Jean Georges Steakhouse. My husband and I were ecstatic to know his signature restaurant, Jean Georges, and his casual dining restaurant, Nougatine, were located in the lobby of our hotel. Since there is an age minimum for our little diners to join us at Jean Georges, we chose instead, to order room service in the luxurious comfort of our cushy robe, slippers and hotel room. That’s right, all in-room dining is also curated by the master chef himself.

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This experience with the Trump International Hotel and Tower has made it difficult for me to want to stay anywhere else in New York City. We had such a wonderful time, much due to the simple facts of being in a great location, with friendly, knowledgable staff in a comfortable, yet sophisticated atmosphere that made my family feel like we were at a home away from home. Be sure to consider the Trump Collection when you travel; it will make your stay.

Want to see more from our Big Apple Trip? Visit Google+.

I was given a media rate to stay at Trump International Hotel and Towers. All thoughts and opinions are my own.