THE HOTEL: Part of the Choice Hotels, this
124-bedroom property is centrally located
and conveniently only a few minutes’ walk
from a metro that is only one stop from the
city’s main train station.
THE CHECK-IN: The check-in was prompt
and friendly and no queues for this quiet,
mid-afternoon check-in.
THE ROOM: The size and smell of this room
took me back momentarily, as it was a tiny
single room – with even smaller bathroom –
and the previous occupant had been
smoking. Nonetheless, it was well-designed,
squeezing in all that you could want for a
short stay: a corner desk with minibar
underneath and old-fashioned TV above
(cable and pay TV), single bed, luggage rack,
small wardrobe and a corner shower cubicle
in the room. A sliding frosted glass door
thankfully cordoned off the toilet and basin.
Décor was modern and simple; definitely
more function than form. No safe but there
is a secure storage facility at reception.
THE BUSINESS: Free wifi throughout,
24/7 reception and seven meeting rooms
accommodating as few as 12 people or as
many as 110, depending on configuration.
Room-only rates vary between 125 to 500
euros, depending on size, and delegate
packages are approximately 55 euros.
THE FACILITIES: There's car parking behind
the hotel; the cavernous Focus restaurant
with separate street entrance and a private
dining room offers affordable hearty pasta
and meat dishes that were surprisingly good;
a funky bar called LUX behind the reception
area with small outdoor terrace; a pleasant,
albeit small lobby lounge; and fitness centre
with pool, sauna and sunbed.
THE VERDICT: This hotel is in a great
location both for the city centre, airport and
the Messe. Apartments for longer-stay guests
and friendly service make it an inexpensive
option for city centre accommodation.
THE DETAILS: Heidenkampsweg 34,
20097 Hamburg, Germany. Room rates from
85 to 129 euros excluding breakfast (at 14
euros). Guests can collect Choice Privileges.
Tel +49 (0)402 388230: www.choicehotels.eu; mail@ambassafor-hamburg.de. GILIAN UPTON
