Crown Plaza UN New York what's it like ?

Does anyone know what the Crown Plaza United Nations Hotel (E42nd and 2nd) is like in New York ?? We were originally booked into the New York Helmsley E42nd and 3rd) and read some good and bad reviews on it.NCL have now changed our pre cruise hotel to the Crown Plaza which has some really bad reviews.My concern is that with is being a smaller hotel if we get a bad rrom there is less chance of us being able to change,whereas the Helmsley is twice the size and some of it's reviews have mentioned about upgrading.

I wouldn't normally be that bothered but I want everything to be perfect,

as the day we fly out (from the UK) and our 1st night in NY is my husbands 40th birthday .

My other concern is that it is off the beaten track,some reviews say it is a very quiet area with little or no bars/restaurants nearby.

I am trying to get the hotel changed but don't hold out much hope.

If anyone has either stayed here or knows the area I would be grateful for your views.

Here's hoping !!!

Kathy