new hotel reviews

Apex City of London Hotel

2009-02-20T11:24:00.004Z

4 star superior

Secret Agent says: The Apex City of London Hotel a has a great location by Tower Bridge (great for exploring London!) and is one of those hotels where you really feel like you've had great value and a brilliant stay.

I love the fact that the rooms all have CD & DVD players and widescreen TVs.

Plus, the brasserie is a really nice informal area serving food and drink throughout the day, and is more of a cool bar in the evenings.

Check out the HotelConnect description below for more information.

HotelConnect's opinion:

The Apex City of London is a deluxe, contemporary four star hotel located close to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

This is an impressive hotel which has been designed with the guest's absolute comfort in mind; attention to detail in the bedrooms (including CD players, DVD, widescreen TV's, and pillow choice) to ensure a really comfortable stay.

Mid-tone wood, light walls and rich soft furnishing create a plush, relaxing atmosphere; there are homely touches such as artwork on the walls and modern ceramic ornaments. Bathrooms are very bright and modern and feature separate bath and walk in shower.

Striking Brasserie and bar area with floor to ceiling glass panels looking out to the street and a refined fine dining restaurant.

Great location and value for money.

Antin Trinite Hotel in Paris

2009-01-08T14:38:00.004Z

2 star superior

Secret Agent says: The Antin Trinite Hotel in Paris has a perfect location and perfect for those watching their budgets.

Close to the Opera and the major department stores such as Printemps, the Antin Trinite Hotel might be small on price but it's certainly large on what it has to offer.

Nicely decorated, always clean and hey - there's even a TV in your room if you really can't think of anything else to do in Paris (I mean seriously... come on!)

Check out the HotelConnect description below for more information.

HotelConnect's opinion: The Antin Trinite Hotel in Paris is in a great central location, close to the Opera and just a few minutes walk to the major department stores of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps.

This hotel makes a great base for discovering all that Paris has to offer. Professionally managed, the hotel offers a good standard for its category and rooms are cheerfully decorated and comfortable.

Whether you're looking to hit the shops or explore the sites we are sure that this will be a popular choice as it represents good value for money in a sought after area of the city.

Acro Hotel in Amsterdam

2008-12-08T17:07:00.004Z

2 star

Secret Agent says: The Acro Hotel in Amsterdam ticks all the boxes for those wanting a budget stay in Amsterdam, without it feeling like you're having an 'oh god, I know I'm saving money but did I really have to stay here' moment.

It will leave you with more of a 'did I really pay only this amount for this hotel? Since when did budget in Amsterdam mean clean, tidy, functional and great location?' kind of moment. We know what we prefer!

Make sure you don't miss checking out the cool lobby, PLUS, very handily - there's a great lively bar adjoining said lobby!

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info.

HotelConnect's opinion:

The Acro Hotel in Amsterdam is an independent, family run hotel with a greatlocation in a quiet, residential street near the museums and lively Leidseplein.

The lobby in particular is quite unusual with some great features including a traditional English telephone box and some old airline seats. Well maintained bedrooms have cream walls and colourful furnishings.

The Acro Hotel also has an atmospheric bar adjoining the lobby. This is a good value property with lots of character.

read more about the AcroHotel in Amsterdam

Morrison Hotel, Dublin

2008-12-05T09:10:00.007Z

4 star superior

Secret Agent says: The Morrison Hotel in Dublin is HIP it's COOL, it's LUXURIOUS... it's original design was done by the famous designer John Rocha... anymore reasons needed to stay in this hotel?

The Morrison is beautifully stylish and also perfectly located within Dublin, as it's right in the heart of the city and overlooks the River Liffey.

It's really hard not to want to spend every weekend in Dublin just for the excuse of staying in this hotel.

It has two bars, but my favourite is the Morrison Bar. Relatively new, it overlooks the River Liffey and has those lovely big sofas that you can just sink into and solve the world's problems.

If you can manage to get yourself out of the sofa, it's only a short way to the Halo Restaurant, self described as 'informal but elegant'. And with Chef Richie Wilson at the helm, you're sure to love the modern european cuisine.

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info.

HotelConnect's opinion:

The Morrison Hotel in Dublin is an elegant contemporary style hotel located on Ormond Quay, just a short stroll from Temple Bar and overlooking the River Liffey.

John Rocha was responsible for the interior decor at the Morrison Hotel which has a strong East meets West feel. Everything is feng shui perfect and a feeling of space, relaxation and luxury abounds.

Minimalist style bedrooms manage to maintain an element of warmth.

The Morrison Hotel's restaurant is very much in vogue as is the bar.

read more about the Morrison Hotel in Dublin

Arriva Hotel, London

2008-11-24T14:28:00.006Z

2 star

Secret Agent says: The Arriva Hotel in London is THE perfect budget hotel for those who need to tighten their purse strings but still want to stay in London itself.

It ticks all the boxes for a great budget hotel.

The Arriva Hotel's location is excellent - it's just a couple of minutes from Kings Cross Station which means that it is perfect for tube rides around the city; train rides elsewhere in the country, and of course, the Eurostar terminal is just next door at St Pancras Station.

It's modern, fresh and clean. The rooms may be on the small side, but you'll find everything in good condition and be assured that they are well looked after.

It has facilities that matter.
Tea and coffee making facilities are always fantastic to have in a hotel room (be it a 2 star OR a 5 star), plus, all rooms have a fridge. Always a handy facility for budget travellers.

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info.

HotelConnect's opinion:The Arriva Hotel in London is located in a quiet street just a few minutes from Kings Cross Station and the Eurostar. It has a small bright lobby area with 24 hour reception.

Bedrooms are clean but functional in style with basic décor. Each room contains a fridge and area with tea and coffee facilities. All rooms have private facilities (en-suite) with either bath and/or shower - some may be small but all are modern, fresh and clean.

A great budget 2 star with great transport links for the city.

read more about the Arriva Hotel in London

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Duo Hotel in Prague

2008-10-27T15:56:00.006Z

4 star

Secret Agent says: The Duo Hotel in Prague is such a great city hotel - even though it's a little bit out of town.

Why?

It's affordable, and I mean, great prices for a 4 star.
It has incredible facilities - an indoor swimming pool and a spa... there is nothing like having a relaxing swim in the mornings, or a massage at the end of the day before heading out for the evening.
PLUS, it has 2 restaurants and a bar.

Oh - and did I mention the bowling alley??? Hello!! How cool is that?

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info.

our opinion: The Duo Hotel Prague has been known in the Prague scene for years because of its affordable price and amazing facilities. It has been recently refurbished with a large friendly lobby area with shop, information desk, internet desks and lobby bar.

There are great modern facilities: swimming pool, bowling alley, hairdresser salon. The bedrooms are well decorated, in bright bold colours and they are comfortable and cosy.

The hotel offers great value for money accommodation as it is located slightly outside of the city centre; however there is a metro station right outside which takes you into the heart of Prague.

read more about the Duo Hotel in Prague

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City Apartments, Glasgow

2008-10-21T16:21:00.005+01:00

4 star

Secret Agent says: The City Apartments in Glasgow are in a such a great location, and are a fantastic place to stay if you like a bit of home away from home.

After a fantastic night out in Glasgow bar hopping or eating at one of the many amazing restaurants, there's nothing like having your own kitchen to make yourself a slice of toast and relaxing in your room before heading out again. You can even have use of a Playstation! Sightseeing? What sightseeing?

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info. I'm off to the museum of transport myself!

HotelConnect's opinion: The City Apartments are centrally located and have a very contemporary feel to them. They are finished to a high standard. Their location is central Glasgow.

Apartments have entry phone system; hallway. Modern bright bathrooms with bath and shower; bedrooms decorated in modern neutral tones, fully fitted contemporary kitchens and living room with dining area. Offering space and flexibility but with the quality of 4 star hotel accommodation.

There are one bed and two bed apartments available; all modern, contemporary in design and decorated in warm, neutral colours; all apartments have modern bathroom, fully fitted kitchen and spacious lounge with dining area. Playstation and DVD players are available on request, a returnable deposit of £50 is required.

De Kent Hotel, Nice

2008-10-09T11:51:00.003+01:00

3 star

Secret Agent says: The De Kent hotel in Nice is a great place to stay if you want to keep to a budget but still stay in the centre of the city.

It is just a few steps away from Place Massena, from the beach and from lots of wonderful restaurants. The rooms are traditional and very well kept.

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info.

HotelConnect's opinion: The De Kent Hotel in Nice is a small, family run hotel right in the centre of town and only 3 mins away from the beach and the Promenade Des Anglais.

It is in an old traditional building, with simple rooms of a medium size, and it is always nice and clean. The De Kent Hotel is best suited for students and those for whom budget is a prime consideration. Some rooms have air-conditioning and can be booked at an extra charge (payable locally to the hotel). All rooms have flat screen televisions.

read more about the De Kent Hotel in Nice

it's on a map here

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Vondel Hotel in Amsterdam

2008-09-09T12:52:00.004+01:00

4 star

Secret Agent says: The Vondel hotel in Amsterdam is full of style and intrigue.

It is made up of three buildings linked together and has secret (okay not so secret that you can't find them) passageways linking them together.

Put that with the fact that it's close to the museums and the has both an indoor AND outdoor bar (set in the garden - how nice!), what better reason to get over there, see the sights and stay in style.

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info.

HotelConnect's opinion:The stylish, independent Vondel Hotel in Amsterdam is located in a quiet street close to the Leidseplein and most of the major museums.

The hotel is comprised of three adjacent buildings, two of which are linked by a passageway with staff escorting guests to the other with porterage included.

Contemporary style bedrooms are elegantly furnished and well equipped. The lobby area with its wooden floors, comfortable sofas and soft lighting exudes a relaxing, homely ambience.

The cosy bar extends onto a charming garden area where tables and chairs are set up for guests to relax during the summer months.

Park Hotel Nice

2008-09-08T12:12:00.005+01:00

4 star

Secret Agent says: The Park Hotel in Nice has that certain je ne sais quoi about it. I don't know if it's the grand interior, or it's perfect location, or maybe it's the access it has to the beach. But it is one of those hotels that I just love staying in.

I love hotels where you can do great stuff during the day nearby, and then have a drink in the evening before heading out for the night - and the L'Avenue Bar at the Park Hotel is a great place to do this. It's really sleek and cool - a bit of glamour before heading to my favourite cheap and cheerfuls in the city itself.

Check out the HotelConnect review below for more info.

our opinion: The Park Hotel Nice is a friendly hotel with a superb central location by Albert 1st Gardens and within walking distance to the old city.

Impressive marble reception area with imposing staircase under a small fountain with red velvet sofas and lush green plants. The comfortable and spacious rooms at the Park Hotel Nice are in traditional style, most of them refurbished. Access to shared private beach (2 mins walk), c.14 Euros per day for the use of the beach, sun loungers, towels, showers, etc.

read more about the Park Hotel Nice

it's on a map here

read about Nice

Europa Hotel in Belfast

2008-08-04T16:24:00.005+01:00

4 star

special Agent says: The Europa Hotel in Belfast could have movies written about it.

It has played host to celebrities, politicans and oh it has the glamour.

Not to mention it IS also in the heart of Belfast - one of the cities that is so 'in' at the moment... Paris? Pur-leeese - fill up on beautiful architecture by day and then get yourself over to the Golden Mile (just a minute from the hotel)for the nightlife. A glamourous hotel in a hip city - check out the HotelConnect review for more info.

our opinion: The Europa Hotel is Belfast's most famous hotel, and the choice of the ex-President Clinton during his visit. It has a superb location right in the heart of the city on the Golden Mile, next to the Grand Opera House. Rooms are comfortable and of a good standard although some single rooms are on the small side.

Guests can choose between fine dining in the Piano restaurant or a more informal and contemporary atmosphere in the Europa Hotel Belfast Brasserie. You can relax in the Piano lounge or unwind in the Lobby Bar.

Jolly Hotel Madison Towers

2008-06-26T10:25:00.002+01:00

4 star

special Agent says: The Jolly Hotel Madison Towers New York is so well placed in New York city that it would be a crime worth pulling you in for if you didn't check out most of NYC's attractions. Then again, it's also in the perfect position for shopping, shopping and more shopping. Apart from getting out of the hotel, this is one place to stay where you wont mind staying in - check out HotelConnect's review below. Lovely, hotel rooms with fab furniture and the architecture makes you feel like you're staying somewhere special.

our opinion: The Jolly Hotel Madison Towers New York is a charming Italian style boutique hotel in a great location close to many of New York's attractions (38th Ave at Madison Ave). The hotel successfully mixes classic European style with the charms of 1920's American architecture. Standard rooms are elegantly furnished with many items imported from Italy, including handcrafted furnishings in a beautiful cherry wood.

Bathrooms are all spacious, decorated in warm colours with Italian travertine marble. All rooms have been recently refurbished. After a long day of site seeing you may feel the need for relaxing in their popular Asian spa or relaxing in the hotel's Whaler Bar where Jazz nights are often organized.

Fox Hotel in Copenhagen

2008-06-25T15:41:00.003+01:00

3 star superior

Special Agent says:

Ooooh it's just so hip it hurts at the Fox Hotel in Copenhagen.

But hurts in a good way.

It's funky it's artistic, it's the kind of place that even before you've arrived you want to email this hotel's details to your mates and say... GUESS WHERE I'M STAYING!!!. It's even got an achingly great cocktail bar. I don't think I need to say anymore - read HotelConnect's review below, and just drool over the pictures.

HotelConnect's opinion:

Where to begin with the Fox Hotel in Copenhagen?

61 blank canvas's teamed with 21 artists from around the world have created something truly original and in some cases downright extraordinary.

Fun, funky, young and most certainly not for the faint- hearted this hotel is not to everyone's taste but if you're looking for something different, then this is most certainly for you.

The hotels lively Tiki bar provides a create list of cocktails to suit all tastes. Although the hotel has no official rating we believe that with the services offered it deserves to be a 3 star superior.

Stormont Hotel Belfast

2008-06-24T10:59:00.004+01:00

4 star

Special Agent says:

The Stormont Hotel in Belfast is located outside of the city centre in a quieter area, opposite the Parliament buildings.

With just a quick taxi ride into the centre, I like staying here as you get the best of both worlds - lots of fun and shopping in Belfast itself, but also the opportunity to feel like you're getting away from it all.

Last time I was here I did a great walk around the Parliament buildings - there's a great view from the top of the steps. I also stayed in one night and dined at the Shiraz restaurant.... mmmm fine dining and just a few moments roll from my room. Perfect!

HotelConnect's opinion:

The Stormont Hotel in Belfast is a modern hotel located across the road from Northern Ireland's famous Parliament buildings, in a quiet residential area approximately 3km from Belfast City Airport and 6.5km from Belfast City Centre.

The hotel has a large, bright welcoming lobby with a comfortable seating area. Bedrooms are modern in design and offer a good level of comfort.

Home to the fashionable La Scala Bistro and the more formal Shiraz restaurant. Hotel guests get complimentary use David Lloyd leisure club approx. 5min drive from the hotel.