FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
GNTO United

Review: Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht

by Francis X. Gallagher

Aug 10, 2024

PHOTO: © ANDAZ AMSTERDAM PRINSENGRACHT

August 2024

ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: We transferred from an enjoyable stay at Hyatt Regency Amsterdam, so we were a little early. We arrived just as most guests were checking out, but the staff checked us in and held our luggage and said they would text me when the room was ready. That was fine with us, as the property sits in a perfect location, walkable to almost everything. We had a private small group tour arranged for Rijksmuseum, and so we walked over to the Museumplein area and enjoyed a beer at Cobra Café while waiting for our group. By the time we returned, our room was ready, our bags already delivered.

GUEST QUARTERS: We were in Room 415, facing the canal and far enough from the elevators to not hear people coming and going. We had a lovely view of traditional Amsterdam houses on the other side of the canal. The bathroom was one big open concept with an island containing a Delft sink, vanity and mirror on the right as you walk in. A little bench on the outside worked as a make-up area. The shower was around the corner off the island with its own entrance; oddly, you could look out through the glass of the shower but you could not look in. Opposite the sink and island were a closet and the door for the toilet, so after using the toilet, you had to open the door and walk around to wash your hands, not the most sanitary idea but worked for the space in the room.

Beyond the bathroom, the main bedroom held a king-sized bed and two smallish, built-in night tables, one with a plate glued catty-corner on the edge to offer a whimsical touch and a little more space. Near the window, a high-backed, gold-colored chair and mirror-topped round table became my workstation. On the opposite wall, a built-in entertainment center/desk offered a big-screen TV and a minibar.

SERVICES/AMENITIES: The main restaurant is Bistro Prins & Aap — named after the prince who lived behind the hotel (once a public library) and Aap (which means “monkey” in Dutch). As the story goes, the “prince” was a gentleman who lived in the back annex; and when the library was converted to a hotel, he often came out and shushed the workers (Prinsengracht also means Prince Canal, the location of the Andaz). You’ll see several statues around the property of the prince leaning forward with his hands cupped around his lips. Aap added a whimsical touch to encourage monkey business at the lively bar and restaurant. We had several meals here, often starting at the bar; Gloria, the hostess, always took good care of us, making everyone feel welcome and sharing some interesting stories.

The hotel serves breakfast daily toward the back of the property, overlooking a beautiful garden. Guests can choose between the buffet and cooked items, which were plentiful.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

  • Bistro Prins & Aap creates some great dishes; I recommend The Pork ’n‘ Tuna, presented on a “pig fish” serving figure.
  • You can’t get a better location walkable to nearly everything in Amsterdam, and, with its modern Dutch design, the hotel displays artwork throughout.

ANDAZ AMSTERDAM PRINSENGRACHT
Prinsengracht 587 Amsterdam1016 HT The Netherlands
tel 31 20 523 1234
hyatt.com

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Dec 12, 2024

6 Raffles Hotels & Resorts for Holiday Experiences

Raffles Hotels & Resorts brings guests its classic brand of luxury to the holiday season with festive experiences at its properties around the world.

Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City

They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.

Daily
Dec 12, 2024

Orient Express Announces First-Ever Hotel

The first hotel under the Orient Express brand officially opened for bookings Dec. 4, allowing discerning travelers to indulge in the brand’s high standards of services and amenities within a hotel environment. Orient Express La Minerva, in the historic Piazza della Minerva in Rome, Italy, was formerly known as Palazzo Fonesca and dates back to the 17th century.

Daily
Dec 11, 2024

Eurostar Debuts Culinary Evolution: Trio of Chefs Introduced Onboard

One of the most comfortable and efficient transportation modes in Europe is Eurostar, the train connecting London via the Channel Tunnel with many European cities using high-speed direct trains to some cities (like Paris and Brussels), and connections to dozens of other destinations. This year, Eurostar celebrated its 30th anniversary.

Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight

As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.

Daily
Dec 11, 2024

PGA WEST Unveils Multimillion-Dollar Revitalization in Palm Springs

PGA WEST, known as The Western Home of Golf in America, recently announced the completion of its multimillion-dollar, three-year restoration project across its three acclaimed, Pete Dye-designed courses. This new revitalization project allows the iconic 2,000-acre golf destination to continue setting the bar for golf courses around the world. These courses are ready to amaze members and guests all over again.

eFlyer Deals
Dec 11, 2024

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Debuts Return & Relax Offer

Unlock double savings and relax by the shores of Hilton Head Island with Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island’s new Return & Relax offer.

Pick Your Paradise: Experience Bali at 3 Incredible Hotels

Bali is a name synonymous with island bliss. But there is more than just one side to this incredible place. Get a sense for the variety of experiences Bali offers by learning about three hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with distinctive opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, earn points for free nights at each of these properties.

eFlyer Lead
Dec 11, 2024

Delta Air Lines Completely Transforms Cabins

Delta Air Lines recently revealed details of its new cabin redesign, set to bring enhanced and upgraded features to the airline’s entire fleet. From fresh seating materials to a renewed color palette to enhanced lighting, the Onboard Experience team is currently working with Delta engineers to make this a reality.