Residence Inn by Marriott Amsterdam Houthavens

On my second night, noise from the nightclub next door kept me awake. I called the front desk, and Anna, who was working the night shift, quickly moved me to a room on the other side. I slept very comfortably there, and her quick, adaptable response felt professional. The hotel has beautiful scenery and comprehensive facilities, and the front desk staff are professional. I highly recommend it.

I spent two nights at the Residence Inn Houthavens in October. The harbor view was serene, breakfast was fine, and my room had the usual Residence Inn amenities, including a full kitchen. It's okay for a short stay, but the hotel is quite far from the city centre. Apart from its luxury taxi service, getting an Uber or Bolt can be difficult. Only one bus line serves Houthavens, so that's the only public transport option. When I arrived from Amsterdam Centraal, it took nearly an hour to find a car willing to drive there. Customer service also fell short for me. I have Marriott status and expected a little something extra on a paid stay, even something small like chocolate or spring water. I got nothing, and I had the distinct feeling I was inconveniencing staff whether I was checking in or asking about amenities. I wasn't told that Res Inn guests could use the gym and sauna in the Moxy until after checkout, so I missed the chance to visit the gym. I also received at least one email saying I had to check in at the Moxy next door, which wasn't accurate. I don't know if this is a Dutch characteristic, but that's how the service came across to me.

The breakfast was very small and limited, and I didn't care for the hard bed or the pillow and blanket. I enjoyed the modern, stylish corner suite, room 603. It was spacious and had a nice view. There's also a gym and spa.

We had a great time, even though our suite was the coldest hotel room ever. The reception teams at both Residence Inn and Moxy were incredible. It's a nice place to settle in away from the crowds, and it's easy to get there by Uber or bike.