Carlyle Solemnity

In their article on New York Feb. 2 Beverly Beyer and Ed Rabey wrote of the Carlyle Hotel as “elegant but with a solemnity bordering on the funereal.” I would say that the hotel appeals to travelers more interested in impeccable accommodations and service than hustle, bustle and flash. Its chief virtue is its quiet charm. And never in my experience has the reception been icy. On the contrary, I have always found the staff to be very friendly and courteous.

Other New York hotels that meet the same standards: the Pierre at Fifth and 61st, the Regency-Park at 61st and the Mayfair Regent-Park at 65th.

DAN O’NEILL

Los Angeles