Kimpton DeWitt
TESTED BY Ramsey Qubein
HOW MANY ROOMS? 274 rooms and suites
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS Exceptionally convenient to the city’s tourist spots, and a clever combination of local touches with modern amenities
PRICE Internet rates for a traditional room start at $184
CONTACT Kimpton DeWitt Hotel, Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 5, 1012 RC Amsterdam, Netherlands; tel 31-020-620-0500; kimptondewitthotel.com.
VERDICT: This is Kimpton’s first venture in Europe, and the De Witt is a perfect example of how the brand is committed to maintaining the originality and local feel for each of its properties. The freebie Kimpton perks remain, and travelers can take advantage of the extensive IHG Rewards program.
WHERE IS IT? Just steps from the train station, this is the perfect hotel for business travelers who need convenience from the airport and to the entire city’s transportation network. It is also a short walk to Dam Square and some of the best shopping and dining in town.
ROOM FACILITIES: The guest rooms come in a variety of shapes and styles in these two buildings. Once a Crowne Plaza, the amenities reflect a strong business focus (free wireless Internet, plentiful power outlets, excellent soundproofing). What’s more fitting, however, is the emphasis on Dutch design and local charm with Delft blue running throughout and door knockers that represent the green parakeets that have colonized the nearby Vondelpark.
Rooms either face the street or the surrounding skyline of Dutch-arched rooftops. King or queen beds are wrapped in exquisite duvets and oversized pillows. Bathrooms offer mind-blowing tile patterns straight out of an M.C. Escher theme (be careful or you might knock your head on the invisible glass partitions separating the shower). Toiletries are from the Marie-Stella-Maris line and there are Nespresso machines and in the closets, robes, yoga mats and umbrellas.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS: Wyers Bar and Grill serves three meals a day including a busy breakfast from some of the cheeriest staff in the neighborhood. The menu features a strong fusion between Dutch and American dishes, thanks to the hotel’s chef who moved his entire family here for this important Kimpton opening. Across the garden courtyard is The House Bar with a long list of Dutch spirits among the choices in this speakeasy-style lounge.LEISURE FACILITIES:The all-hours fitness center is well-equipped, and scented water is always available near the hotel’s entrance (in addition to the gym). There is no pool or spa, but reception can always loan out Dutch bikes for guests to borrow. Pets are permitted free of charge.
BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES: The hotel features a variety of meeting and conference venues for small groups. Free wireless Internet is available throughout, and guests can ask to have documents printed at reception. Want to impress a client? Stop by the hotel’s onsite flower shop (the second of its locations in town) for some beautiful Dutch tulips.
