Review of Hotel Roemer, by Katie Scott

A sleek, sexy and sophisticated boutique hotel, Amsterdam's Hotel Roemer is a microcosm for the city in which it's set. The sister property to Hotel Vondel opened its doors in 2006, and although younger and smaller, Hotel Roemer proves to be more mature and luxurious than its neighbouring sister boutique hotel.

The facilities

Three words to describe Hotel Roemer: bold, animated and, above all, fun. These characteristics can be seen throughout the design, from chandeliers constructed with jet-black desk lamps to the city-scene wallpaper that lines the elevator. The primary influence here is the Dutch artist Anton Heyboer, whose works are displayed in the lounge (amongst them is a photo of him and his, a-hem, seven wives!).

The eye-catching design and superb location near Vondelpark masks some of the boutique hotel's downfalls, namely the small size of the dining and sitting areas and lack of a proper restaurant. However, this is expected from a townhouse conversion, and with only 23 rooms it's common to have these intimate areas all to yourself.

The rooms

The 23 rooms of the boutique hotel are so luxurious that you may be tempted not to leave. All are complete with espresso machines and complimentary mini-bars and Executive Rooms have Jacuzzi baths, iPod docks and flat-screen TVs in the bathroom. The Standard Rooms are more spacious than at Hotel Vondel, but come with showers only. Six have large garden-facing balconies - be sure to request one as they go for the same rate as others in this category.

Possibly Hotel Roemer's strongest feature is the Zen-like terrace with a soothing water feature and chic furniture set on pure white stones. In the late afternoon it's the perfect place to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine (all bar items and snacks are on the house), as you contemplate your next move in the streets of Amsterdam.