5 Star... Probably not any longer...
To set the stage... I paid 990 NOK ($145) for a special promotion twin room - ending up in the new annex of the hotel. A bargain on paper, still even a promotion only decreases expectations so far.
Service in the hotel was fine. Not overwhelmingly proactive but courteous and efficient; the breakfast in Grand Cafe was another matter. They have had problems for a number of years, and apparently still do. It felt like a nice aged setting staffed by an average McDonalds manager. Clearing of tables was random and slow, coffee had to be aggressively pursued, and the buffet selection limited as well as slow to be replenished. Now, Oslo has charismatic young upbeat people working even in 7elevens - how they can fail to staff and manage quality at a luxury restaurant is beyond me...
The 7th floor room was large, but otherwise on an average 4 star level. Television was aged and channel selection limited. A patio was available, which could have been a bonus if it didn't sport tarmac and one plastic chair a la roadside motel - needless to say I didn't spend much time out there.
The athletic facilities were varied. The pool is about 30 by 15 feet which I would consider too small if 4+ people want to swim (unless they are fond of physical contact ) but located right next to the skybar which is convenient. The shower and sauna facilities were clean and nice, and the hotel offers health treatments. But, the "Gym" was a serious stretch of the definition. One italian made multi machine, one exercise cycle and one treadmill is not a Hotel Gym by any earthly standard. Obviously, just fulfilling the 5 star requisites are more important that offering quality training for the guests.
I would rather stay in a smaller well managed 4 star establishment any day, but still, considering the discount and geographic location, I was moderately satisfied. If the room had been at rack rate I would have been upset.
Unique Quality: Quite a historic setting, a large number of artworks, an old world reception and a most central location.
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