Tales of the Chic & Not-So-Basic

Where: Herengracht 13-19 1015BA , Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1015BA

February 22, 2008 at 2:16 PM | by NatalieWW | 1 Comment

Though one expects to have one's expectations challenged while transitioning to a foreign continent, I did not sufficiently recalibrate my concept of the 'hotel' to prepare myself for the Chic & Basic.

And so begins Nick Martens' account of the boutique hotel Chic & Basic Amsterdam over at BygoneBureau.com.

With rooms "the size of an average refrigerator box" and all-white modern minimalist furnishings and décor (reminiscent of an Apple store), the Chic & Basic should possibly be renamed, the Chic & Peculiar.

Starting with the arrival, as most rooms are up a very narrow, steep winding staircase (and no elevator). OK for this oh-so-young-and-fit traveler, but any one with mobility problems would find it challenging if not impossible.

Second oddity: the lighting. The only light source in the room is a large backlit picture of an attractive couple. So your options are either all light, or no light. So much for reading in bed.

Next up we have the shower. It's all-glass and out in the middle of the room. I admit, it's very hip and great if you have the body of a supermodel, but if you aren't an exhibitionist you won't be happy. And finally, we have the rest of Marten's cautionary tale:

"On the television... is a channel that constantly loops hardcore pornography. I think I understand the implication, but the bedding situation complicates my comprehension of the C&B's target audience. The room's floors are hardwood, and what appears to be a full bed is actually two twins pushed together.
Even my nocturnal adjustments are enough to push the beds apart, so I imagine that a more vigorous activity (maybe your kids are jumping on the beds?) would send the mattresses careening across the small room."

Bottom line, we think this would be a nifty place for the adventurous independent traveler looking for a great Amsterdam location (it overlooks a canal), but amorous couples, the elderly, and of course, those darned bed-jumping children might want to think twice.

Rates start around $150 a night.

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