Amsterdam's BEST Kept Secret: A UK Hotel You NEED to Book!
Amsterdam's BEST Kept Secret: A UK Hotel You NEED to Book! (and Why My Socks Almost Fell Off)
Alright, listen up, travel junkies and weary souls! I’ve got a confession. I’ve found it. The holy grail. The unicorn of hotel stays. Forget the canals of Amsterdam (though, they're nice!), I'm talking about a UK hotel that's, well, almost too good to be true. Seriously. I’m still processing it. And you, my friend, NEED to know about it.
I'm going to let you know the name too, after the review, because honestly, finding this place was a fluke, a glorious, accidental stumble into paradise. Let's dive in, shall we? Prepare for a messy, honest, and occasionally rambling ride. Buckle up, buttercups!
First things first: The Essentials - the Stuff That Actually Matters
- Accessibility: 5/5 Stars. Boom. Okay, I’m not disabled, but I really appreciated how thoughtfully they’ve handled this. Elevators everywhere, wide hallways, accessible rooms (I peeked, okay?), and a general sense of, "You belong here." This ain't just a token effort; it’s a core value.
- Cleanliness and Safety: 5/5 Stars (and Breathe Easy!). This is where they really shone. I'm talking serious anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas (they even did it in front of me!), staff trained in safety protocol… the works. They practically bathed the place in sanitiser – in a good way! I felt safe and clean. Also major points for the room sanitization opt-out option. Not everyone is happy to have their room sanitized every day, so I respect that.
- And the little things!: Hand sanitizer everywhere, individually-wrapped food options, safe dining setup - this place has thought of everything.
- And, even better, they offer: Hot water linen and laundry washing, hygiene certification, professional-grade sanitizing services.
- Internet Access: 5/5 Stars (and yes, it's free!). Wi-Fi in every room (and it worked, unlike some hotels where the signal is more of a rumour.) Plus, Wi-Fi in public areas. I even saw some hard-core LAN nerds plugging in. Speed was great, I could stream, upload, download, work – all good!
- Services and Conveniences: A Whole Galaxy of Awesome. Now, this is where it gets ridiculous. Let's just run through a few highlights:
- Doorman, Concierge; Daily housekeeping, (and they aren't just tidying up; they're cleaning!), Laundry Service. Seriously, if you need it, they probably have it.
- Business Facilities: Meeting/banquet facilities, along with a projector for special events, and even a Xerox machine (a dying breed!) .
- For those that are disabled: They have elevator access and other facilities for disabled guests.
- They have lots of other services: Contactless check-in/out, currency exchange, luggage storage…it's the little things that make you feel taken care of.
Living the Dream (Things to Do, Ways to Relax - Oh My Goodness!)
- Spa/Sauna/Pool Area: 5/5 Stars (I may have levitated.) This is where I nearly lost my mind. Okay, not literally (yet). But the pool with a view? Stunning. The sauna? Heavenly. Steam room? My pores wept with joy. And the Spa? My poor, overworked body was pampered with massage, body scrub, the works. I am now a convert to the power of a foot bath. And yes, because this is a UK Hotel so the outdoor pool is actually indoor.
- Fitness Center Yes, it also gets a 5/5.
- Things That Are Also Available: Gym/fitness, Spa/sauna
- Things I'm a bit less thrilled about: They don't seem to have any opportunities to go skydiving.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Prepare to Eat… and Eat Some More)
- Restaurants: 5/5 stars (and my stomach is STILL singing songs of joy.) Listen. This hotel doesn't just have restaurants; it has experiences.
- A la carte I'm talking, and I'm talking, and I'm talking a la carte in restaurant.
- Buffet, and Vegetarian Menu: Oh, the buffet. Breakfast was a spectacle. It was an international spread and offered everything from Western to Asian breakfasts. The chef was a genius.
- Something else you can find: Snack bar, a coffee shop, or a poolside bar.
- Food for Specific Needs: Alternative meal arrangement.
- You can also order Food delivery, Room service [24-hour].
- Drinking: They also have a bar.
- Quirky Side Notes: Okay, I'm going to get personal here. I am a salad fiend. And the salad in the restaurant was… chef's kiss. Simple but phenomenal. The coffee shop was also dangerous – I developed a serious addiction to their pastries. I also had a happy hour and had Asian cuisine in the restaurant.
The Rooms: Paradise Found (and the Bed… Oh, the Bed!)
- Available in All Rooms: Air conditioning, alarm clock, bathrobes, bathroom phone, and bathtub. They also have blackout curtains, carpeting, a closet, and coffee/tea maker.
- The Best Part: Okay, let's cut to the chase. The bed. I’m pretty sure it was made of clouds. Honestly, I sunk into it, and the world melted away. Free bottled water, safe box, and the usual suspects. Let's be honest, how often does a bathtub convince you to take a break and relax.
- More Inside the Room: Desk, extra long bed, free bottled water, hair dryer, high floor, in-room safe box, interconnecting room(s) available, internet access – LAN, internet access – wireless, ironing facilities, laptop workspace, linens, mini bar, mirror, non-smoking, on-demand movies, private bathroom, reading light, refrigerator, safety/security feature, satellite/cable channels, scale, seating area, separate shower/bathtub, shower, slippers, smoke detector, socket near the bed, sofa, soundproofing, telephone, toiletries, towels, umbrella, visual alarm, wake-up service, wi-fi [free], window that opens.
- Quirky Side Notes: I am not a fan of carpeting, but it didn't bother me here. Mostly because I didn't leave the bed. The soundproofing was impeccable – I didn't hear anything from the hallway. And my room in the hotel (they are all non-smoking).
Getting Around (and Getting Away) 4/5 (Minor Caveats Apply)
- Transport: Airport transfer, bike rental (which I didn't try, because, bed), car park (free!), car park (on-site), car power charging station, taxi service, valet parking (if you're fancy).
- The Only Downside: Getting to the hotel was a bit of a pain. But, once you're there, you're golden.
- There is a catch: Becuase I am rating this place by my experience the score is not entirely accurate.
The For the Kids (or the Kid in You): 4/5 Stars
- It's Really a Place for Everyone: Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal.
The Quirks (because life isn't perfect, thankfully)
- Room Decorations: They have room decorations, but some are a bit… interesting.
- Pets: No pets allowed, which bummed me out.
The Deal-Breakers (or Not, Really)
- CCTV: CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property.
- Other Considerations: Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private].
Final Verdict: Amsterdam's BEST Kept Secret – BELIEVE THE HYPE!
This hotel… it’s an experience. It's a haven. It's a place where you can truly relax and feel looked after. The staff are genuinely lovely, the facilities are top-notch, and the attention to detail is insane.
Here's the Deal: I'm not exaggerating when I say this hotel is seriously underrated. It's a treasure. You need to book a stay. You deserve it. And trust me, you'll thank me later.
AND FINALLY… the name of this glorious sanctuary? You'll find it in the UK…
[Hotel Name, which I am not going to reveal here because I haven't been paid for the review, and because I don't want to give away too much information].
My Advice: Book now. Seriously. Before everyone else figures this place out. And if you
**Ibis Styles Melun: Your Dream French Getaway Awaits!**
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, 'cause here's my disastrously brilliant Amsterdam adventure plan, courtesy of yours truly, a travel enthusiast with the organizational skills of a caffeinated squirrel:
Day 1: Arrival and Amsterdam's Awkward Charm
- Morning (6:00 AM - Ugh, why did I book a red-eye?): Land at Schiphol, bleary-eyed and already regretting that second coffee. Drag my suitcase (which, let's be honest, is probably going to be my constant companion and nemesis) through the airport. The air smells vaguely of stroopwafels and… something else I can’t quite place. Excitement? Anxiety? Mostly just the need for a shower.
- Anecdote: Last time I flew, I accidentally took someone else’s suitcase. Thought it was mine until I got to my Airbnb and realized I'd packed a stranger’s socks and, inexplicably, a rubber chicken. Lesson learned: double-check EVERYTHING.
- Mid-Morning (9:00 AM): Check into Hotel United Kingdom. Fingers crossed the room isn’t a closet. Honestly, the name “Hotel United Kingdom” has a strange ring to it. Does it mean what I think it means, or is this an elaborate prank?
- Quirky Observation: I’m expecting a hotel with flags and bowler hats, or something equally silly. But hey, that might actually be… fun? Let's give it a chance, right?
- Emotional Reaction: Honestly? A little relieved. After the flight from hell, a comfy bed sounds like heaven.
- Late Morning (10:00 AM - Ugh again): Dump luggage and immediately head out to wander around the canals. Aimless wandering is mandatory on day one, right? Let the city wash over me, they say.
- Lunch (12:00 PM): The plan is to grab some bitterballen from a street vendor. I've heard they're amazing. I've also heard they're hot, so I am hoping to not burn my tongue!
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Start the main sightseeing. Dam Square and the Royal Palace - probably very boring touristy stuff, but gotta do it.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): I guess I will take a canal tour. I've heard it's a mandatory must-do.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Dinner at a restaurant… Somewhere. Wherever smells good, I guess. Maybe some Indonesian food? It's a thing, apparently.
- Emotional Reaction: I'm already tired, but I also can't wait!
Day 2: Bikes, Booze, and the Van Gogh (Hopefully, No Meltdown)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Embrace the Dutch way! Rent a bike. This could be a disaster. I haven't ridden a bike in… well, let's just say it's been a while. Pray for my balance (and the safety of innocent pedestrians).
- Anecdote: My last attempt at riding a bike involved a spectacular faceplant and a near-miss with a confused poodle. Fingers crossed I've improved.
- Opinionated Language: Amsterdam without a bike is just… wrong. It’s like visiting Paris and refusing to eat a croissant. Sacrilege!
- Late Morning (10:00 AM): Bike ride to the Jordaan district. Explore the quirky streets, find some cute shops, and maybe… just maybe… avoid getting run over by a tram.
- Lunch (12:00 PM): Find a charming cafe in the Jordaan and indulge in some people-watching. I want a sandwich. And a beer. Maybe two.
- Messier Structure: Okay, so I say I want a charming cafe, but let's be honest, I'll probably end up in the first place that looks open and isn’t too crowded. Priorities, people. And the beer? Absolutely.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Van Gogh Museum. Get ready to be overwhelmed. I may or may not get weepy in front of the ‘Starry Night’ – it’s a known risk. This is the one thing I cannot miss.
- Doubling Down on Experience: Ugh. Standing in front of the paintings, I'm expecting to be speechless, in awe. I am already getting goosebumps. This is probably the most important part of this adventure.
- Emotional Reaction: OMG. My emotions are all over the place! I'm feeling a bit anxious but also really excited. This moment is going to be a core memory or a disaster. Either way, I'm here for it.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): After the museum, a strong coffee is in order. I need to recover from feeling the art.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Brewpub. I've read about how great the Dutch beers are. I will drink beer. And more beer.
- Natural Pacing: Yeah, all I'm doing today is feeling, thinking, and drinking.
Day 3: History, Houses, and Hectic Hangovers
- Morning (9:00 AM): Another walk, this time past the Anne Frank House (it's booked weeks in advance, so just a walk past).
- Evening (7:00 PM): More Indonesian food, hopefully. Or a burger, if I'm feeling lazy. Or both. Don't judge me.
- Occasional Rambles: Okay, so my digestive system is really going to hate me on this trip. But you only live once, right? And Amsterdam is all about embracing life, right? Or maybe I'm just making excuses for my terrible eating habits.
- Stronger Emotional Reactions: My brain is already fried from all the history stuff. I’m getting a headache.
- Throughout the Day: Exploring. Maybe a market? Flowers? Cheese? God, so much cheese.
- Evening: That's it for Amsterdam. Time to pack (I know I will put this off till the last minute), and then it's good-bye.
- Emotional Reaction: I am very emotional thinking about how soon this trip is going to conclude.
Important Considerations (and Potential Disasters):
- The Weather: Pray for sunshine. I packed for rain, but secretly hope for sun. Knowing my luck, it will be a week-long deluge.
- Navigation: I'm relying on Google Maps and a vague sense of direction. Wish me luck.
- Food: I'm going to try everything, even if it kills me. (Kidding… mostly.)
- Jet Lag: This will slowly kill me.
And there you have it, folks. My hilariously flawed, potentially disastrous, but undeniably exciting Amsterdam itinerary. Wish me luck. And if you see a woman on a bike careening down a canal, give her a wide berth. It's probably me.
Escape to Paradise: Hotel Giubileo, Italy Awaits!
Amsterdam's Best Kept Secret: A UK Hotel You ABSOLUTELY MUST BOOK! (Or Maybe Not, Honestly...) FAQ
Okay, spill. What's this "secret" hotel you're raving about? Is it actually in Amsterdam? Because I swear, the title is confusing.
Alright, alright, settle down, hotshot. Yes, the *hotel* is in the UK (specifically, a charming little town that shall remain nameless... for now. Gotta keep the mystique, you know?), BUT, and this is a BIG "but" (cue the giggles), it's perfect as a pre- or post-Amsterdam trip stopover. Think of it as the gateway drug to Dutch delights. So, you fly into Amsterdam, spend a glorious few days getting lost in the canals and stuffing your face with stroopwafels, and THEN… BAM! This hidden gem in the UK. Or maybe the other way around. Whatever floats your boat, honestly. I just think it’s *genius* for a breather after you’ve had your senses overloaded. Or before, if you want to ease into it, like I did last time, after the most stressful flight of my life. Almost missed it! Traveled all the way over from somewhere, ended up late, and nearly missed my flight home. But hey, at least I got to the secret hotel!
What's so special about it? Seriously, why the dramatic title? "ABSOLUTELY MUST BOOK!" Sounds a tad hyperbolic...
Look, "hyperbolic" is my middle name. But in this case, maybe it's justified. Here's the deal: it's not your usual cookie-cutter hotel. Think more... quirky. Like, the kind of place where the wallpaper might be slightly peeling in a delightfully vintage way. The rooms are cozy and have their own unique charm. And the breakfast? OH. MY. GOD. Seriously, prepare for a food coma of epic proportions. Think locally sourced everything, mountains of freshly baked bread, and the best damn coffee you've ever tasted. I even once had a *perfect* poached egg, which is basically a miracle. It's the kind of place where you can actually RELAX. Which, after Amsterdam’s hustle and bustle, is a godsend. Also, they have super comfy beds. I actually slept through an entire afternoon, and I NEVER sleep through the afternoon. And speaking of Amsterdam, imagine this; you fly out from a hectic flight, then spend a few days in the most exciting place in the world, and then BAM! This place is just so chilled out.
Is it expensive? Because my budget is basically a shoestring budget with holes the size of giant gherkins.
Alright, let's get real. This isn't a budget backpacker hostel. Nor is it the Ritz. It's somewhere in between. Which means, yeah, it’s *slightly* more expensive than, say, a hostel dorm where you're sharing a room with seven strangers and their questionable backpack contents. But here's the kicker: it's actually GREAT value for what you get. Think of it this way: you're paying for a slice of peace, quiet, and seriously delicious food. And honestly, after the rip-off prices in Amsterdam... it feels like a bargain. Plus, you’re getting a truly unique experience. Prices fluctuate, of course, depending on the season and how in-demand the place is (and trust me, it's popular!). BUT I’d still say it's worth saving for.
What about location? Is it near... anything? Like, a train station? Or a pub? Because I need easy access to both.
Alright, location. The hotel itself isn't in the middle of a vibrant city center. But that's the *point*. It's in this charming, quiet town, perfect for escaping the city's craziness. HOWEVER, it's still pretty well-connected. There's a train station a short taxi ride away, making it easy to get to major cities, including, *ahem*, Amsterdam, if you're popping back and getting a flight… or something like that. As for the pub... oh, yes, there's a pub. And not just any pub. A proper, cozy, fire-in-the-fireplace, local-brewed-beer kind of pub. I spent a solid three hours one night there, chatting with the locals and sampling all their ales. Pure bliss. Just be warned: you might get a bit chatty after the third pint. Speaking from experience. So if you’re planning on a quiet trip, it's not for you. However, if you want to relax away from the big city, it's perfect.
Okay, let's talk about downsides. What's the catch? There HAS to be a catch.
Alright, you've got me. Nothing's perfect, right? (Except that poached egg, I swear.) Here are a few potential "catches":
- The weather: This IS the UK, so expect… well, expect anything. Pack an umbrella, a raincoat, and maybe some sunblock. You never know. I went once, got sunburnt, then the next week it rained the entire time. Then the next time, it was perfect. Welcome to Britain!
- The internet: It’s generally reliable, but it’s not exactly super-speedy. So if you're glued to your phone the entire trip, maybe it’s not for you. Though, honestly, put the phone down and ENJOY yourself. You're on vacation!
- The drive is… *ahem*... a bit long: Depending on where you're arriving from, it’s a drive. Not the end of the world, but factor in travel time.
- It's not for Party Animals: While the pub is great, this isn't the place to be if you're looking for non-stop nightlife. It's more about quiet evenings and relaxing.
Any tips for booking? Do I need to book months in advance? Because I am always the last-minute holiday planner.
Yes! Book as early as humanly possible. Honestly. This place is popular, it's a gem! The best rooms (and you DO want the best rooms, trust me) go fast. Booking a few months in advance is probably a good idea, especially during peak season. I messed that up once. I ended up in a smaller room, and I was *so* jealous of everyone else. But hey, lesson learned! Also, keep an eye on their website for special offers. You might be surprised!
So, would you go back? REALLY?
Absolutely, 100% YES. I’ve already booked my next trip! Honestly, I dream about that breakfast. I dream about the peace and quiet. I dream about the cozy pub and the friendly faces. It’s not just a hotel; it's an experience. It’s the perfect antidote to the sensory overload of a city like Amsterdam. And even if things go wrong, like, if your flight is delayed or there'sAround The World Hotels
