We recently stayed for three nights in a leased apartment at 1600 Broadway, in New York, that is part of the Ultimate Escapes Premiere Club. In particular, we wanted to see what the real estate and services were like in one of the “value” plans that Ultimate Escapes offers.

The 1600 Broadway address is certainly in the center of it all with Times Square literally at your doorstep. For those who thrive off of the energy of New York City, you couldn’t pick a better location, but if you’re looking for a more subtle side of the city it may not be ideal, particularly as the bright Broadway lights shine directly through the windows.

We were a little put off by the arrival experience, as the concierge at the building could not find our keys. Admittedly, we arrived at about 1 a.m., but we would have expected more of a formal welcome package with keys.

The concierge did call us before our arrival to see if we needed anything, left a handwritten note in the room, and also called us when we left to make sure the visit went well. We give him high marks for that attention.

We could not work the TV/Satellite after the first night, and the instruction card was not useful. Of course we understand that clubs can’t send someone to your room every time you can’t work the television, but the instructions should have been better.

There was fruit, water and soda in the fridge, along with two bottles of wine. It was a very nice touch and we assume that the club does this for all members. If you are a member and can confirm that, please do so in the comments below.

Bottom line: You get less space—a one-bedroom with kitchen and living area instead of two-bedrooms—but the quality of furnishings and service seem the same as with Ultimate Escapes’ higher-priced plans.

The current pricing for the Premiere plan is $70,000 for 14 days, and they promise to buy or lease properties in the $1 million price range. Assuming the level of service we received is typical, the plan seems to deliver.

Of course, the decision to join a club can’t be based solely on the quality of their service. Any potential member should focus on a club’s balance sheet, growth and financial strength, especially in this challenging economic environment.