Best Western Art Hotel Rotterdam

Welcome change from off-the-mill business hotels

I do not often write reviews, but I definitely felt this place deserved one. I have now stayed for about 30 nights (1 to 2 nights at a time) on business trips to rotterdam in the last 6 months and I have really taken a liking for this unusual hotel. First, the rooms: I must have used a dozen different ones by now, and each one has its own touches! The furniture could be described as arty bric-a-brac (which certainly will not appeal to everyone) but it makes them absolutely unique. All rooms are very spacey (if you're lucky and the hotel is not too busy, you stand a chance of being upgraded to a suite which is like a small appartment), there is always a separate sitting area complete with coffee table and most of all a decent full-sized sofa to relax in when watching tv after a long day's work - I have been to too many 4 star business hotels lacking this most basic but desirable feature in their rooms. The beds are perfect for my taste, and mine were always spotlessly clean. and a big bonus is the little separate kitchen area complete with fridge and microwave, so you can quickly warm up a tv dinner while putting the finishing touches to that important report for the next day. Talking of work, there is always a big table to do your stuff on, and the internet wifi (free of charge!) is reliable and fast, by my own experience. Try to get a room on one of the top floors (up to 12th) the views are breathtaking.
There are some down-sides too of course, the main one definitely being the lack of airco in the rooms - this could be a showstopper for some, especially when there's a heatwave.
Downstairs, I lke the big reception/foyer/dining room, it is very cosy in the evening, and there's a separate lounge with comfy sofas and chairs where you can read or watch tv if you don't want to be holed up in your room. I do miss a real bar though, but you can get any of the friendly staff to get you a drink - and there's an all night shop on the other side of the square where you can get a cheap six-pack of beer (remember you've got a big fridge to keep it cool).
The restaurant food is fine for me, as hotel restaurants go. The menu is somewhat limited (no snacks) but what I had tasted great, try the pasta alfredo! And breakfast is on par with other 4 star hotels in the area, with a decent selection of cold and warm food.
The immediate surroundings are nothing to write home about, the hotel is situated in a modest housing area, but I've never felt unsafe even late at night. The metro is just opposite the hotel and it will take you into town in a matter of minutes (4 stops to the Stock exchange).
All considered, definitely a welcome change from the usual hotel chains where you get the same room in Paris or London, but that is always something I expected from Best Western establishments.

Unique Quality: Great big rooms with comfortable furniture, and most of all a separate kitchen area. Absolutely unique funky design, also in the foyer and common areas - check out the individual room signs. Very friendly and helpful staff. Perfectly located both for business and tourism.