The George Hotel

The George Hotel aims to impress with its splashy design, which has British and colonial touches. Low lighting adds a sexy vibe to the scene, even in the lobby, which has wooden floors, pink and patterned accent walls, cozy leather or gray chairs, and a pink rug. A number of cozy, stylish sitting rooms are often rented out for meetings -- they have an upscale '60s vibe, with turquoise velour armchairs, patchy leather couches, floral purple and orange wallpaper, and black bookcases and fireplaces. The on-site restaurant and bar are brighter, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. They have dark-wood floors, forest- green or black leather chairs, sleek wooden tables -- some of which have white tablecloths -- and hanging lamps. Though the interior design is spectacular, the George Hotel has a fantastic collection of outdoor spaces, from a rooftop terrace lounge with stunning views of Alster Lake to a patio in an English garden with seating. There's also a terrace in the spa furnished with black outdoor furniture topped in comfy gray padding. The hotel has an upscale party vibe, especially in the bar. Most guests are couples or business travelers. But families are catered to too -- children younger than eight can stay for free, and get breakfast discounts up to age 12.

In terms of lovely views, the George Hotel has a great location next to Alster Lake, but it’s outside the city center and most of the main attractions are at least a 20-minute walk away. Kuntshalle Hamburg is a 14-minute walk from the hotel, and Karstadt Mall is a 22-minute walk away. The Chocoversum Museum is a 26-minute walk from the property. Most other attractions require public transportation (or a car). For example, St. Michael’s Church and Reeperbahn (the red-light district) are 18- and 19-minute U-Bahn rides respectively. The closest U-Bahn stop is an eight-minute walk away, while a bus stop is closer. It’s a 20-minute drive to Hamburg Airport. 

The George Hotel’s 125 rooms go for simple, yet chic, with gray carpeting, white beds with tweedy red throws, heavy black drapes, and low lighting. Stripes or funky '60s style prints play out on accent walls. Many of the hotel rooms pay homage to model/icon Twiggy in hanging artwork, while others have a mix of stylish rocking chairs, white leather armchairs, or white '60s-style plastic chairs. It’s a fun, upbeat look that gives a nod to the theme without going over the top. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars, kettles, air-conditioning, free bottled water, safes, and two barbells for working out. There’s four smoking rooms available, and Suites add espresso makers. Some higher-priced rooms have furnished patios. Bathrooms are trendy, too, with black-and-white tiles, vessel sinks, and showers. High-end toiletries and hairdryers are provided. Suites include separate tubs. Some guests have complained about noise from the hotel and the neighborhood. 

The George Hotel has some unusual and attention-getting amenities that enhances its personality and value. There’s a full-service spa on-site that offers massages and beauty treatments, a terrace with seating, and a sauna (though the latter requires a fee). The hotel’s on-site Italian Restaurant, Dacaio, is pretty pricey and offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus outdoor patio seating. Breakfast options include a full English breakfast and continental items, at a hefty price. Bar Dacaio serves afternoon tea, and its bar scene is lively late into the night. The Campari Lounge has a fabulous rooftop location with Alster views, drinks, and antipasti plates. Keeping with its theme, the hotel's five meeting rooms are cozy and are stylized more like sitting rooms. Other amenities include paid parking, free Wi-Fi, and free Jaguars. Wi-Fi is available throughout, but the connection can be spotty.