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The Plaza Hotel
A Bit of Magic in New York By Julie Keywell
Among the tall skyscrapers in busy New York City stands a building that looks exactly like a castle out of a storybook. Walking up the stairs covered in red carpet and stepping through the revolving doors, you may as well be stepping into a fictional scene from one of Kay Thompson's Eloise stories for children. I felt as though I was stepping back into my childhood, when I used to read about Eloise's adventures at the Plaza Hotel. She passed her days riding up and down in the elevators, running the halls and talking with the general manager. I was surprised to find that the hotel is every bit as breathtaking as the illustrations in Thompson's books.
The Plaza Hotel opened in New York City in October of 1907 and was touted the greatest hotel in the world. It's located in the most fashionable section of New York, on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park. Many kings, presidents and movie stars have rested their heads in this hotel because of its luxurious atmosphere. Known for its crystal chandeliers and marble lobby, The Plaza is a name recognized around the world.
While The Plaza has traditionally attracted the adult crowd, it has recently become a favorite destination for families. Understanding the importance of experiencing a vacation as a family unit, The Plaza launched a program to cater to those members of the family that many hotels often overlook: the kids. The Young Plaza Ambassadors (YPA) program was launched in the summer of 2000 to give children a feeling of inclusion when they visit The Plaza. "We are the only hotel in the luxury category that treats kids like they are paying the bill," says Kristen Shuster, YPA manger.
Since its inception, more than 250 families have taken part in the YPA program. Membership is open to children ages 6 through 18 and is good for one year. Each ambassador receives a YPA photo identification card, a YPA wallet filled with Plaza dollars to be spent at the Plaza's boutique, a lively map of the city, a photo album, music video and CD supplied by Atlantic Records, and many discounts and special privileges at attractions throughout New York City valuing $1,000. The program is not meant to be a camp for kids, but rather an enhancement to the family experience of New York City.
