Originally Posted by apudme
For future reference, Haarlem is a short train ride from Amsterdam; I have stayed there in the past and it is a nice place and an easy jaunt into Amsterdam if you are there fr the weekend and on a budget.
Much closer than Rotterdam, which is none too special IMHO.
Glad you managed the Hilton on PL, though!
I think I will hit Haarlem on my next weekend AMS trip, since I've "done" AMS so many times.
Even better than getting the Hilton on PL, however, was being able to check-in at 11:30AM, AND getting an Upgrade at check-in to Executive Floor on a PL reservation, including breakfast and evening canapes and drinks at the fabulous, rooftop, glass-enclosed Exec Lounge! Thanks to FT for the HH Gold Citi Upgrade!
I just showed the card and explained that, while I know I'm not entitled to any special treatment, I might get points for room charges. Lo and behold, I'm Upgraded! Must be my charming personality?
More likely, standard rooms were either full or unavailable, and my Gold status gave him an excuse to put me on the Exec Floor. The breakfast room was surprisingly empty, so I'm guessing Exec Floors are not full, while the rest of the hotel is packed.
I just came back from an excellent breakfast there, am off to explore and shop. Thanks again for all the help!