Vincent van Gogh stares at me from above. I stand for a long time in awe of the spiral constellations of the Dutch sky so blue it looks photoshopped. It was a perfect start to my journey in the historic, canal-laced, cycle-strewn Amsterdam, and home to the Van Gogh Museum.
We arrived late in the morning at Centraal Station from Paris Gare du Nord (a journey time of just over three and a half hours) and headed to the Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Its gilded revolving door is a portal into one of Europe's largest five-star hotels. The softly-lit reception area feels like a gallery with marble details and modern chrome sculptures sharing space with pops of red and black accents.
Situated in Amsterdam's oldest quarter, Dam Square, and directly across the Royal Palace and the new Dior store, it's a desirable address among well-heeled business travellers as well as young couples, friends and families with kids. For elderly holidaymakers or those with impaired mobility, there are ramps and elevators in place.
The Grand Story
The history of this grand dame harks back to 1865, when young Polish tailor Adolph Wilhelm Krasnapolsky opened a coffee house on the site that is today known as the Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. As the café gained popularity, he added rooms for rent, purchasing neighbouring buildings through the years and remodelling them into a hotel. At present, it's an amalgamation of 55 canal houses stitched together, going from the Dam Square in the front to the Oudezijds Voorburgwal canal in the back.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Bridal Trends, 2024 Edition
Bralettes, corsets and mermaid skirts emerge as the new must-haves when it comes to wedding dressing
All The Feels
Maahi Shah takes a deeper look at the big little moments in a bride's life as she prepares for her wedding day
ISLAND ESCAPADE
Here's why Fiji is the ultimate destination to celebrate your love.
ROMANTIC ESCAPES
Wondering where to head for a honeymoon getaway? Isha Mayer recommends five luxurious destinations for your honeymoon
The Taste Of Weddings
What goes behind planning those extravagant grazing tables and indulgent bites at weddings? Top gourmet caterers let Isha Mayer in on their processes
Challenging Convention One Ritual at a Time
Maahi Shah speaks to five female priests who have been breaking new ground while upholding faith and pursuing a passion for learning
FIJI: A TROPICAL FOR INDIAN HAVEN WEDDINGS
From pristine beaches to cultural familiarity, discover why Fiji is the perfect destination for Indian weddings.
MAKE YOUR WEDDING FANTASY A REALITY
The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace offers luxurious venues, exquisite dining and unforgettable moments
SHINING BRIGHT EVERYWHERE
Lab-grown diamonds for every occasion—luxury and affordability
BRIDAL BEAUTY, REDEFINED
Christine Ko, CEO of Moira Cosmetics, shares her insights on makeup for brides and the art of achieving radiant skin.