Almost invariably, people will tell you that the Belvedere is a dump. The faux painting, the peeling paint, and pervy cohabitants are all mentioned. There remains though an allure to the place. Sitting palatially on the east end of Cherry Grove, the Belvedere is iconic in status. As it is in it's 75th year now, I was determined to stay there, if but for a night.
This weekend presented a perfect opportunity, as a house and housemates needed to be checked out, a deposit made, and a few other errands needed to be done. With less than perfect weather in the forecast, the call was made for reservations. My only requirement? That I take a "luxury" room, and that I get a discount.
My room, right on the water was quite nice, with an iPod alarm clock, flat-screen (13") television, full bath and kitchenette. The staff was invariably friendly and helpful (and cute).
That being said, there are parts in disrepair and less than perfect. Further, as I was not in the more commonly taken economy or standard rooms, there were no issues that come along with a shared bath.
The video above, which admittedly isn't great, gives you a general idea of the place. Sound was removed as it was pretty windy the whole time.
I'll have video later in the week of the Mr. Fire Island Leather contest, the NEW Pavilion, a walk through The Meatrack and a few other tidbits.
