Clarion Hotel Oslo

The concierge at the wrong hotel in Oslo helped turn a rough arrival around. After a long flight across the equator, my eSIM wasn't working and I was tired, hauling my luggage around the wrong side of Oslo Central. They confirmed I was at the wrong Clarion, handed me a map, and pointed me in the right direction. At my actual hotel, the concierge let me store my bags and suggested they might be able to help if I arrived early for check-in. I really appreciated the kindness, though I didn't take them up on the offer. I got a second wind and went exploring instead. The room was on the small side and minimally furnished, but comfortable, functional, and as advertised. The shower was a great surprise, and the door took a bit of force to open. Staff were helpful when I needed them, and quietly took care of things in the background otherwise. The hotel is handy for sights, places to eat, and transport. I also grew fond of Oslo's trams.

The breakfast deserves more than five stars. It was seriously that good, better than any breakfast or brunch place I've tried. The room was more mixed. The sheets were clean, but the pillows smelled sweaty, and the room was dusty. During our stay of several days, it wasn't vacuumed. The soap and shower gel dispensers seemed worn out: after pressing them, they wouldn't spring all the way back, so I had to pull the tip up by hand.

The breakfast was among the best I've had at a hotel, and the location was great. The room was fine, with good shower pressure. The Rituals bathroom products didn't seem to be the same quality as the usual Rituals products.

I was here for work meetings, so I didn't do any sightseeing. The train station was an easy walk away, and there was a tram stop close by too. Breakfast had loads of choices, all tasty, and the barista-made coffee in the morning really made my day. I couldn't get my eSIM working, and the woman on concierge duty kindly let me make a local call. I didn't catch her name, but I appreciated it. I couldn't check in early, though they did store my luggage, which was helpful.