Review of Grand Hyatt Berlin, by The TI Review Team

By TI Reviewer Olivia De Santos:

In the 1920s and 30s, Potsdamer Platz was a vibrant square and busy transport hub. Reduced to rubble during the war, it was only in the 1990s when rebuilding began, with an impressive list of modern architects at the helm, and the platz is once again alive with bars, shops, cinemas and restaurants.

In the midst of this regeneration is the Grand Hyatt Berlin. Within walking distance of Brandenburg Gate, the Philharmonie, the New National Gallery and many other must-sees, it makes for the perfect luxury base in Germany's lively capital, carrying off a welcoming atmosphere and impeccable service in true Hyatt style.

Fussy materials and gold embellishments have been left aside in favour of Hannes Wettstein's clean-cut lines, natural materials and contemporary art. Sculptures, paintings and design-led furnishings scatter the hallways, and exotic flowers colour the reception and restaurants. There are three of these, and worth a review almost on their own; food is definately a focal point here.

Mesa serves tapas on long, communal tables bordered by a floor-to-ceiling wine rack: perfect for families. Then there's the informal Tizian Restaurant, which serves classic international fare and afternoon tea. The real star of the show is, of course, Vox, the Grand Hyatt's signature eatery. From a sake sommelier to live jazz and an open kitchen, eating here is truly something special.

The Club Olympus Spa & Fitness, up on the Grand Hyatt Berlin's roof, has a range of REN and Aveda treatments and facilities include a gym, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, plunge pool and sun loungers. The pool offers views over Berlin from the water's edge.

The 326 rooms and 16 suites are spacious and refined, minimally decorated and above all, comfortable. They come complete with Bang & Olufsen flatscreens, mp3 connection points and top-to-toe marble bathrooms (in which the TVs can be angled towards the bathtubs: bliss). All rooms have king-size beds, Egyptian cotton sheeting and Bauhaus images on the walls.