Tag Archives: Amsterdam

A Night at the Museum

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November 5th will see history and art lovers descend on Amsterdam for a cultural treat – the 12th annual Museumnacht (Museum Night). Known to locals as N8, for one night only 45 of Amsterdam’s best and most iconic museums adopt unorthodox opening hours; from 7pm until 2am, visitors can experience the magic of exploring a museum at midnight. First held in 2000, this intriguing opportunity to discover Amsterdam’s cultural treasures, or to see old favourites in a new light, has quickly become a Dutch tradition.

Alongside the permanent and temporary exhibitions normally on show, the museums also organise special tours, workshops, film screenings and offer food and drink. Outside the museums, performances and live music with everything from jazz to DJ sets are scattered across the city as an exciting festival feel takes over the Dutch capital.  Continue reading →

Splendia Choice: Hotel De l’Europe, Amsterdam

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Set on the banks of the beautiful Amstel River, our favourite hotel this month is the exquisite and elegant De l’Europe, ideally situated in the heart of Amsterdam amongst the Dutch capital’s UNESCO World Heritage Site canals. A central location and a long, rich history have gained De l’Europe the title of the “other Royal Palace of Amsterdam”.

The hotel’s story begins in 1633, when the Het Rondeel inn was built on the foundations of a 15th century defense tower. Little changed for the next 200 years, until the hotel was completely remodeled in a Renaissance style, gaining an expansion and a new façade overlooking the Amstel River. In 1896, it was reopened under its current name as a true luxury hotel, including lavish features such as a toilet and bath on every floor. In more recent years, the hotel has continued to play a major part in Amsterdam’s history; in 1940 it featured as a location in Alfred Hitchcock’s film Foreign Correspondent, and during the Second World War it was occupied by German soldiers, shortly after which it underwent another renovation. In 2001, the hotel was designated a rijksmonument, a Dutch national heritage site. Continue reading →

Dining with Stars

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With the recent announcement of this year’s awards and the publication of the 2011 Michelin guides, we thought what better than a run-down of ten of our best hotels – in no particular order – with Michelin starred restaurants. Whether you’re a fine gourmand or simply wish to treat yourself to a special meal, we’ve got all you need…

Hotel Condes de Barcelona

This modernist hotel is home to two prestigious restaurants: Loidi, an affordable bistro, and Lasarte for fine dining. Both are run by three Michelin star awarded master chef Martin Berasategui, one of the best chefs in the world today.

Hotel Wellington Madrid

Among Hotel Wellington’s restaurants is the Michelin starred Kabuki; the best of its kind in the Spanish capital, offering a unique fusion between Japanese and Mediterranean flavours.

Hotel Metropole, Venice

Enjoy the richly spiced Italian cuisine prepared by well-known chef Corrado Fasolato in the hotel’s Michelin awarded Met Restaurant. Continue reading →

A 21st Century Stay in Amsterdam

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The worlds first ‘one to five star’ hotel, Lloyd Hotel and Cultural Embassy, has opened its doors. Located in a revamped 1920s building in Amsterdam’s trendy Eastern Docklands, it showcases contemporary Dutch design combined with timeless classic pieces.

Unusually, room rates are based on the size of the room, rather than comfort level. Whatever star-rating you choose, impeccable service, comfortable beds, inspiring design and homemade breakfasts are the same for everyone.

Each of the 117 rooms are different, offering a unique experience. Much attention has been given to the interior of the rooms, with pieces created by Dutch artists such as: Claudy Jongstra, Hella Jongerius, De Bazel, Marcel Wanders and Richard Hutten. The Lloyd Hotel has an extensive library of art books and magazines for guests who want to relax after a day exploring the Dutch capital. Continue reading →

Hospitality & History in Amsterdam: “The World’s Smallest Metropolis”

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In the heart of the Dutch capital lies the remarkable Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand. Established in the former City Hall with origins tracing back to the 16th century, The Grand is internationally renowned for luxury and is listed as one of the best hotels in the world. Its unique location, high standards of hospitality and high quality staff ensure a visit to Amsterdam is enjoyed fully, with a stay in The Grand. For more information about Amsterdam, click here.

Some personal recommendations of Amsterdam from staff at The Grand:

Zsa Zsa Zanolie, Guest Relations Officer, The Grand

Where to shop…

“Our hotel is located in the historical centre of Amsterdam, the perfect starting point for visits to museums, stores, restaurants, bars, clubs and other attractions. Of course, it’s difficult in a city like Amsterdam to choose between all the various options, so that’s why we gladly advise some good addresses for shopping, eating and expanding the cultural horizon. I will start with shopping: for some of the best stores in town I would go the Negen Straatjes, or in English the Nine Streets, a charming area of nine closely connected shopping streets with designer and vintage clothing, shoes, accessories, furniture, art, gifts and gadgets. This is a true paradise for anybody who wants to spend money on extraordinary things!” Continue reading →