THE SCENIC ROUTE: Where do you stay if you drive a Bentley in America? In the sophisticated Bentley Suite at the St. Regis New York, of course…
Where do you stay when you drive a Bentley in America? In the sophisticated Bentley Suite at the St. Regis New York, of course…
New York City skyline with urban skyscrapers at sunset, USA
“Hello, Mr. Penwarden,” was the greeting I received as I pulled up in front of the St. Regis New York with the roof down. Nice gesture. Apparently they’d been told to look out for a guy in a red Bentley convertible.
I was definitely looking forward to a drink after driving from JFK to Midtown Manhattan. For some of us, the thought of getting behind the wheel in New York is too daunting. But even if it’s not for the faint of heart, I can only recommend it. The feeling of driving through the Big Apple, the steam rising through the streets, the hustle and bustle and the noise – this is the perfect fuel for the senses.
The Bentley Suite at the St. Regis New York
The concierge took the keys and parked the car. While my room was still getting the finishing touches, I was invited to the hotel’s King Cole Bar for their signature Red Snapper (essentially a Bloody Mary, renamed years ago so as not to offend discerning patrons like me). Look, I stayed in the Bentley suite. Yes that’s right. This 15th floor corner room, pictured right, exudes luxury and craftsmanship. The wood used in the suite is the same as in a Bentley, as is the leather; Bentley statues and models sit on the tables; Even the curtains are adorned with Bentley seat belts. With a large lounge overlooking Central Park and Fifth Avenue connected to an equally large dining room, this suite is off the clock face.
After drinks and dinner with friends, I enjoyed a blissful sleep wrapped in the finest linen.
Since I only stayed one night at the St. Regis, it was soon time to get back behind the wheel the next morning and drive three hours north to Rhode Island.
This special model, the Bentley Continental GTC Speed, is the most powerful of the series: you can drive six liters comfortably on the motorway. With the top down and the B&O sound system blaring as it weaved down the New England country lanes, I certainly had a smile on my face. It was hot too, and the radio DJ told us we were “rocking hot” in 32 degrees… Fahrenheit, remember?
The Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island is one of the last remaining large oceanfront hotels in New England. Taylor Swift lives nearby, but I haven’t spotted her. I sat on the patio and enjoyed a lobster roll and a beer followed by a few hours at the beach before driving back.
The Bentley Continental GTC Speed model
Good gracious. What a journey! The Bentley GTC – one of the most beautiful and beautiful automobiles in the world – combined with a stay in the Bentley Suite in one of the best hotels in the world. A better pairing of car and hotel will be hard to conjure up, but I’ll keep pushing on my brave crusade! @SimonPenwarden
WHERE I STAY: The Bentley Suite at the St. Regis New York
Located just off Fifth Avenue in New York’s Midtown, the hotel will amaze you with its five-star elegance and with every aspect gracefully thought out. Impeccable, understated service – suite includes butler service > marriott.co.uk
