Anantara Grand Krasnapolsky, Amsterdam

BACKGROUND Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas opened its first hotel in the Netherlands in 2022, though the property has been part of Minor Hotels group since 2000 - most recently as a 451-room NH Collection property.

The hotel dates to 1856, when Polish tailor Adolph Wilhelm Krasnapolsky opened a coffee shop and hotel. Today, the property is made of 55 canal houses and has six wings. A refurbishment reduced the room count to 402 to allow for bigger suites, plus a new spa and gym.

WHERE IS IT?

Very central, on Dam Square facing the Royal Palace. Ideal for setting off on foot, or borrowing one of Anantara's complimentary bikes to explore the city's labyrinthine alleys. The hotel is a 30-minute drive from Schiphol Airport, or a short walk from Centraal Station where you can catch the Eurostar to London.

WHAT'S IT LIKE? Historic yet contemporary. The lobby is a dark, openplan space that is brightened by tulips and natural light filtering in through the street-facing Grand Café Krasnapolsky.

The property has six lifts to access the six wings. Your key card holder signals which is easiest for your room, though the lifts are small and there can be long waits.

As a suite guest, when checking out I was able to wait for my airport transfer in the VIP lounge - a quiet space with complimentary tea, coffee, water and mini stroopwafels.