Ok, so when I'm off to somewhere new I have a certain search criteria I use to choose a place to stay. I won't bore you with the details because that criteria changes depending on the type of trip I'm taking at any given time (i.e. am I solo? how long will I be there? do I have enough time to walk the city? blah, blah, blah). Two things are always required however...is it cool? and is there a decent bar/restaurant? I mean, a girl's gotta have priorities, right?
So, finding myself in need of a place to stay in Amsterdam for a night before a European river cruise, I set the search options and went to work. I stumbled upon the Dylan Amsterdam kind of on accident and wowza! happy accident is the truth.
As soon as my reservation was confirmed a concierge reached out to me for any special requests. I'm pretty easy so I asked for a dinner reservation for my arrival evening as I would be arriving late afternoon off a 12 hour flight...not the appropriate state of mind to want to have to think too hard, ya know?
Upon arrival I knew this was a really, really good choice. The uber cool vibe was felt even before I got out of the taxi (which was a Tesla, by the way). That vibe just oozed during the seamless check in process. And the room? Yeah, this was a very good idea.
Perfectly decorated, amazing luxurious bedding, bathroom amenities worth stealing, (it's not theft if you only take the ones meant for you, ya know?) and the giant walk in marble shower was the BEST!!
Dinner at OCCO...another great idea, that was! The atmosphere was inviting plus the decor and level of service shined through the jet lag. But, the first sip of the Grey Goose cosmo set the tone...yep, yep and yep! The black Angus flat iron steak, cooked to perfection (on the first try) sent my mouth watering as it was set down in front of me. It was so good it didn't last long enough for a photo (which is shameful as it's presentation was awesome) but I did get a pic of dessert. Give me some credit.
After an incredibly restful sleep it became even more obvious the choice was a good one as the location was stellar. Located in the middle of "9 Streets" area on the Keizersgracht (yeah, I can say that) Canal, striking out on foot was easy with shopping, the charm of Amsterdam's canals and a lot of the must see attractions of the city within walking distance of the front door.
Next time I'm in Amsterdam it will be for more than one night and it will definitely be at
the Dylan...I need a little more uber cool...
Check out the gallery for more Dylan Amsterdam photos.
Please leave a comment about your love of travel, your own travel experiences or your favorite boutique hotel (or any hotel, really)...we'd love to hear from you.
Comments