To start, this review is for the hotel only. The 'De Roode Leeuw' in their full name is actually just their restaurant that's currently under construction. Talk about hotel renovations cluster-F'ing things up.
So, here's the breakdown:
~ I walked here from Centraal Station (only about a half mile) and could not find it because of the construction blocking half of the sidewalk. FYI, the main entrance for now is on the side of the building past the construction area. Opposite side of McDonald's.
~ I checked-in and was assisted by Virginia who was very cordial and courteous. I gave her my reservation, and she mentioned that the only thing available was a Superior room. Even though I booked a regular room. SCORE! Now I'm really starting to love Amsterdam even more.
So, here's the Superior room breakdown:
~ First off, you've got two options. Take the slow elevator up, or take the stairs. Being on the 4th floor, I wasn't planning on hauling a heavy backpack up to room 421 (sucks it wasn't 420 but oh well close enough).
~ I entered, and the room was really really nice! I didn't have a spectacular view, but it was good enough. The drapes were heavy and blocked out sunlight if needed. For some air or a draft, you can crack open the windows. Noise level wasn't bad once you shut the windows and drapes. Nearly soundproof.
~ It's a non-smoking room, and there were signs about their policies on smoking and drugs in the room not allowed being allowed. I don't smoke anyways, so no issues. There was a control for a/c. A large flatscreen with cable. The room was wide enough that they fit a table and three lounge chairs all together. A safe that fits my Mac and a lot more. There was a mini-bar, but I had no need for the amenities, nor the espresso machine. The bed was super comfortable, and the beddings seemed white enough.
~ The bathroom was kind of tight, and I wondered about the shower being open. It basically had no door or curtain. Not a big deal, but when you took a shower water got all over the floor. The showerhead was detachable and seemed sorta lime-scaley, but it wasn't that bad. And the body soap smelled great!
~ Free WiFi
~ Continental breakfast was NOT free, and I believe from 7-10am.
~ Rate for one night, €265.00 or $289.50usd. I know, kinda pricey, but worth it! It was a last minute booking.
Other highlights:
~ I found out, that the longer you stay, the more discount they'll give. Taken from their website:
If you stay 2 nights or more your rate is automatically discounted by percentages from 8% up to 31%. The highest discounts are on the longest stays, so stay longer and pay less at Hotel Amsterdam De Roode Leeuw.
~ The hotel was located in the heart of the city, which was uber convenient. Walking distance to practically anywhere. Tourist heavy, but all of Amsterdam seems to be.
Overall, I'd still stay here again even with all the construction around it. It wasn't the greatest room, but I think it's enough for the typical American standard. And just like my previous review about the Holiday Inn Express, "service goes a long way". Virginia's pleasantries turned this four-star review into a five. read more