Best Hampton Inn in Amsterdam
Introduction I did a one night stay at this property. Due to the current lockdown situation in the Netherlands, the rate I had was just unbeatable. If not due to other personal obligations, I would have stayed here for a few more nights at the current rates - unheard of before the current pandemic. I must say that I had not much expectation from this property but I was actually surprised. Location This property is not located close to the centre of Amsterdam, but about 15 mins away by tram to the main train station. It is located in the Ij area where it's mainly a residential/office area. Within about 5 mins walking will be the tram stop (line 26) to get to the city centre. Also within a short walking distance there's some old neighbourhood with nice cafe, restaurants and bars (and also other lines towards the city centre). Check In I did an online check-in and did not see any upgrade to my original booking - which is quite the norm for Hampton Inn's. Seems like the property does not yet offer digital key, the same for most Hilton's in the Netherlands (so far only noticed the Hilton in the Hague to be the only one). I arrived late evening, around 8.30 pm at the hotel which again as expected to a very empty front desk (they had already locked the main entrance and I had to use the intercom to get access). I was handed a welcome letter and as an Elite member, I was very surprised with the nice welcome gift - for me this was certainly a big plus (looking at you Hampton Inn Schiphol). Front desk associate was very friendly and welcoming. Due to current lockdown regulations, I was asked about my breakfast options - which was another big plus - it was basically the usual offerings without any cut back but you just had to pick it up the next morning at the assigned time and bring it back to your room.Access to the lift needs to be activated by the key card - good security feature. Room From the floor map, I did notice that the room assigned was slightly on the bigger side, and indeed entering the room, it was surprisingly roomier compared to all the other Hampton Inn's that I've stayed in the Netherlands. As usual for all Hampton Inn's the room furnishing was quite the same. There was coffee/tea making facilities (again no cut back here - except I think they replaced the real mugs with paper cups). Climate control in the room was good - except that the fan speed even at low setting was slightly more obvious- however it did keep the room temperature well regulated. TV options were ok - a good mix of local and international channels. Wifi was free - except a login password was needed (provided by the front desk during check-in). Speed was good and stable. The view from the room was towards some residential buildings.The bathroom layout was exactly the same as other Hampton Inn's with the same wall mounted toiletries. Water pressure and temperature was very good. The space was also quite spacious - which is also a rarity. Breakfast As mentioned earlier, breakfast was basically close to the usual spread - which was very surprising, but very welcoming. I went down to collect my breakfast at the appointed time and above what was on the list provided the previous day during check-in, I was also offered the famous Hampton waffle option, which I gladly took. The breakfast tray was only prepared when you arrive (I guess due to the low occupancy) which is good to since it's freshly made. While waiting I was also offered coffee/tea.To me even compared to the full service hotels, the breakfast provided by the property was top notch. Overall All in all, this has to be the best Hampton Inn in the Netherlands (except the one in Utrecht which I've yet to experience) especially during current times, where lots of other similar properties have cut items drastically (blaming current situation). The hotel staff were all super friendly and helpful. Further the HHonors elite recognition provided by the hotel is to me great - much better even compared to other full service Hilton's - which really restore your trust to the program. I will certainly recommend this property. For me a big shoutout to the great team managing this property for their great customer and service oriented attitude!