Description: I checked in rather late, having started the day at the office. The receptionist was either in an unpleasant mood or she just didn't like me. Yep, no smile. Or maybe it was her sad-looking, worn uniform that had her down? And then I had to carry my own luggage to my room - a service one generally takes for granted, even at B&B's around the world. However, when checking out on the last morning I noticed that luggage could be left at reception to be taken up later - upon request.
I finally found my room and was met by a blast of cold air. Now I understand that they'd like to air the room from the last guest, but it was autumn and not very warm outside. It took a while for the heat to finally kick in.
The room was large enough for two, but, as usual ,only suitcase space for one. As it was the third floor, the view was limited indeed. It seems the tourists get the better views from the 10th floor and above. The curtains matched the bedding cover.
The room had the usual amenities: bed (extra bedding included); bathroom (towels, shower gel, shampoo, and shower cap available); open wardrobe (it had a mirror but the lighting was poor); TV (with alarm and room info options but limited channels); and desk (with modem internet access - didn't check the rates). There was also a pants presser, which took forever to warm up, but worked for a quick fix. There is a laundry/dry cleaning service - but this is Norway, so it's costly.
Breakfast was a buffet with mostly Scandinavian options - don't expect to be able to order your eggs sunny-side up. And remember that most business/conference people eat from about 7:30am to 8:30am. The same applies for showering - you lose water pressure and some of the heat between 6:30am and 7:30am.
Room service ... ah, yes. Don't go there. Rather walk down the road to the nearest BK! The first time I ordered, I got a burger, and when I ordered fish, it stank up the room. By the time the fish came, it was less than room temperature and the mashed potatoes were chewy. Plus, there's a 55 kroner fee to order. The second time my meal took a good 45 minutes to get there and was missing ingredients. I don't know if it was bad luck or bad service.
The hotel is quite near the royal family's castle. It takes about 10 to15 minutes to get to the train station. Alternatively, you can take the tram downtown. Otherwise, a 20-minute walk will lead you to the main shopping street in Oslo city.
For tourists, this is not the place to stay. You pay an arm and a leg and the hotel has only the bare-bone amenities to offer.
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