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Hotels & resorts: Equinox Hotel New York vs. The Brando, French Polynesia

Quick Verdict

Equinox Hotel New York is a great choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and wellness-focused stay in a vibrant city setting. The Brando is ideal for those desiring an ultra-exclusive, eco-conscious island getaway with exceptional privacy and service, provided they are prepared for the high cost.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeEquinox Hotel New YorkThe Brando, French Polynesia
NameEquinox Hotel New YorkThe Brando, French Polynesia
Room Size (sq ft)350-1900One-Bedroom Villa: 1,033, Two-Bedroom Villa: 1,808, Three-Bedroom Villa: 2,648
Price per night$582-$1138One-Bedroom Villa (low season, Villa + Breakfast): €3,400 ($3,720 USD, $4,900 CAD), All-Inclusive package: Around €4,300 ($4,700 USD, $6,200 CAD), Starting price (July 26, 2025): $5,451.46 (excluding taxes and fees)
On-site dining optionsElectric Lemon, Broken Coconut, In-room diningBeachcomber Café (Polynesian, French, and international cuisine), Les Mutinés (French fine dining by Chef Guy Martin, dinner only), Nami Teppanyaki (Japanese teppanyaki), Bob's Bar (casual beach bar), Te Manu Bar (open-air lounge), In-Villa Dining (24-hour)
Spa services offeredCustomized body and facial services, cryotherapy, infrared sauna, quantum harmonics, massage and bodyworkVarua Polynesian Spa (massages, body treatments, facials, steam baths, tea lounge, yoga shelter, Fare Manu 'bird's nest' treatment cabin)
Fitness center amenitiesEquinox Club access, group fitness classes, personal training, private Pilates sessionsAir-conditioned facility with cardio and weight training equipment, fitness and stretching lessons, tennis court
Pool availability (indoor/outdoor)Indoor 25-yard saltwater lap pool and outdoor pool with terracePrivate plunge pools in each villa, outdoor infinity pool
Sustainability practicesNot availableLEED Platinum Certification, seawater air conditioning system, solar panels, coconut oil generators, wastewater recycling system, local and sustainable materials, support of Tetiaroa Society
Proximity to local attractionsHigh Line, Edge, Empire State Building, Times Square, Madison Square Garden, Penn StationLocated on the private island of Tetiaroa, guided excursions available
Transportation optionsValet parking, private car service, helicopter transfers, close to 34th Street–Hudson Yards Station and Penn StationPrivate plane via Air Tetiaroa from Papeete, round-trip flights from Papeete to Tetiaroa (€483 / $485 USD / $640 CAD per person), bicycles provided for each guest
Pet-friendly policiesPets up to 25 pounds welcome, $250 non-refundable cleaning fee, cats not allowed, pet beds/bowls/treats provided (subject to availability)Not available
Accessibility featuresAccessible guest rooms with 32” wide doorways, lowered light switches and controls, toilets with grab bars, lowered vanity, roll-in shower or accessible tub with grab bars; Hearing Accessible rooms with visual fire alarms, visual door and telephone notification devices, TVs with closed captioning; Braille and tactile signage; TTY for guest use; Accessible public areasLever door handles
Overall Ratings9.2/109.2/10 (The Luxury Travel Expert)

Overall Comparison

Equinox Hotel New York: Price $582-$1138, Overall Rating: 9.2/10. The Brando: Price starting from $3,720 USD, Overall Rating: 9.2/10.

Pros and Cons

Equinox Hotel New York

Pros:
  • Fantastic location
  • Helpful staff
  • Soundproof rooms
  • Luxurious amenities
  • State-of-the-art spa
  • Access to Equinox Club
Cons:
  • Food diversity at Electric Lemon could be improved
  • Pet cleaning fee of $250
  • Sustainability practices information not available

The Brando, French Polynesia

Pros:
  • Secluded location on a private island
  • Exceptional service (generally)
  • High praise for the Varua Polynesian Spa
  • Spacious and well-equipped villas with private plunge pools
  • Strong commitment to sustainability
  • Range of dining options with diverse cuisines
Cons:
  • Expensive
  • Inconsistencies in service due to staff turnover (mentioned in some reviews)
  • Some reviewers found the food solid but not mind-blowing

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