Conscious Hotel Vondelpark

The main reason I’m unsure about coming back is the noise on the fifth floor. Every night after 11, people coming or going slammed the elevator entrance door, and the bangs jolted us awake. The pillows were also much too soft to support my neck, so sleep wasn’t comfortable. For the rest of the stay, things were pleasant. We were there four nights and found the location ideal. We rented bikes for a day, which made it easy to explore Kinkerstraat, Jordaan, and Vondelpark. We tend to avoid Central Amsterdam because it feels too touristy. The bikes were sturdy, and trams or walking worked well too. Staff were helpful with our requests, and they kindly kept our bags after checkout so we could spend our last day exploring without carrying them around.

The room was clean and neat, and the staff were patient and kind. Breakfast was fine, though I thought it cost a bit much for what you get. There are cheeky sayings everywhere. I don’t need the tiles cracking jokes, especially when the shower barely had any pressure, maybe around 35% of normal. Washing my hair was miserable. The street was loud, so ask for a room at the back. We were on the second floor, and higher floors probably have a nicer view. I wouldn’t hang out in the room, but it was okay for sleeping.

The only thing that bugged me was the lack of a socket by a mirror. The provided hairdryer has a short cord, so it wouldn’t reach where I needed it for styling. Aside from that, we had a great stay and would come back. Our room was simple but clean, with everything we needed, a really comfortable bed, fluffy pillows and duvet, and a lovely bathroom and shower. The reception and cafe area was bright and cute. Staff were friendly and answered our questions, and we could pay a small fee for a later checkout. It’s a little beyond the centre, but the tram makes getting there easy.

I’m a fussy guest because I’m allergic to feather bedding and need a quiet room. The staff were kind and flexible about both, and Angelo at the front desk deserves a special mention. I also liked the hotel’s eco credentials. The good quality bikes they rent were really convenient.