Room Mate Aitana

Built in 2013, the Room Mate Aitana is a stunning, modern hotel with an enormous shimmering tinted glass-fronted facade and bold contemporary architecture. Designed by acclaimed interior designer Tomas Alia, inside is no less arresting -- a cavernous yet brooding lobby area is low-lit with copper-paneled reception desks, playfully melting bronze pillars, and metallic-tinted furnishings (the space feels more modern art gallery than hotel reception). The rest of the hotel has a fresher and more future-retro vibe with funky graphics, colorful carpeted floors, and a trio of elevators in brushed chrome. Clientele tends more toward the business guest, though the original, arty interiors also attract a fair few leisure travelers with an eye for innovative design who'd rather not be in Amsterdam's bustling center. 

The Room Mate Aitana is positioned on a small artificial island situated off the Westerdok on the edge of the city center overlooking the River Ij. The hotel has its own marina, so arrival by boat is possible, however more likely is a three-minute cab journey from Amsterdam's Centraal Station. The rest of the island is commercial offices and residential apartment blocks, but the bustling lanes of the city's bars and coffee shops can be reached in just 10 minutes on foot. The S100 ring road is also very close, making the hotel easily accessible by car, while Dam Square in the center of Amsterdam is a 10-minute tram ride away. 

The hotel has 284 rooms, most of which are decorated in a fresh, unfussy style with contemporary minimalist furnishings and angular design motifs. Special Design rooms have funky and innovative interiors with statement furniture pieces and quirky detailing. (One room had avant-gard wallpaper with letters repeating the phrase, "Amsterdam is a city with much to offer, look and find the best places" while another had an interesting shelve-like sculptural piece behind and hanging over the bed). In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge, and minibars, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee facilities come as standard. Bathrooms are minimalist in style with walk-in showers and hotel branded toiletries. Most rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with excellent views over Amsterdam -- especially those on higher levels. 

A buffet breakfast is served in the hotel's smart, contemporary I-Dock restaurant (not usually included in the rate), which also offers a lunch and dinner menu with an outdoor terrace overlooking the water. The hotel's spacious fitness room, with both exercise machines and free weights, also looks over the harbor as well as providing flat-screen TVs to watch while working out (though lack of pool or sauna is a shame). The bar lounge is particularly funky and modern, full of quirky designer pieces and a good wine list. A business center is available to guests while Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout the hotel.