Hotel Allure

Outside the touristy parts of the city, the area around Hotel Allure is more typically Dutch and residential, with locals passing this five-story townhouse going to or from work. The property's red theme is apparent from the outside, with a lacquer-like coating on the foundation. Inside, the small lobby is dimly lit with a wood reception desk and a pair of black scoop chairs beside an old shoe shine machine and a brochure rack. Red carpeting runs throughout and most of the furniture is upholstered in red leather. The pleasant smell of potted plants and exotic flowers is notable. It's popular with budget-minded travelers hitting parks and nearby cultural attractions, like the Koninklijk Theater Carre.

The hotel is situated on the busy Sarphatistraat, a wide two-lane road with a tram line, lined with tall residential townhouses. Restaurants, bars, and shops a short stroll from the hotel, and Oosterpark is about a 12-minute walk. Several cultural attractions can be reached on foot; the Koninklijk Theater Carre, Hortus botanical garden, the Artis Zoo are all less than 15 minutes away. Tourist sights like Rembrandtplein and Waterlooplein are a bit farther, but can be reached in a 20-minute walk or less. Major destinations like Dam Square and the Museum Quarter require taking public transportation, and there's a tram stop at the end of the hotel's street. Schiphol Airport can be reached in 30 minutes via public transportation.   

The guest rooms at Hotel Allure have contemporary decor that isn't very stylish, but spaces are still pleasant. They're generally well-maintained though minimally furnished, with white walls, dark wood desks and wardrobes, and red drapes, carpeting, padded headboards, and leather chairs. Floral photos above beds introduce a dash of color, but do little to add energy. Standard rooms have double beds, or two twins (or three twins in Triples). The Budget Rooms are identical, though some are located in the basement and have tiny, street-level windows. Some upgraded rooms on upper floors have small balconies. Street-facing rooms get the most traffic noise from the passing trams, and those overlooking the garden terrace aren't always quieter if guests are chattering outside. All units have wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, safes, free Wi-Fi, and electric kettles with china cups, but there's no free coffee or tea, and rooms lack air-conditioning. Bathrooms are basic but tidy, with all-white tile, stall showers with removable rainfall showerheads, and hairdryers, but no toiletries. 

This hotel's star feature is its large outdoor garden terrace at the back of the hotel, enclosed by wooden fences and the backs of other buildings. It's mostly open space, but there are several benches and chairs (and ashtrays) set between flower beds with trees and potted plants. There's also a buffet breakfast available for an extra fee, served in a room with tables along one wall, as well as a long communal table with high-backed red chairs in the middle of the room. Other amenities include a pair of public computers at a small desk in the lobby, on-site bike rentals (fee), and free Wi-Fi throughout.