Reality Check ➔ HOTEL HOTEL HAVNEKONTORET, BERGEN
THE HOTEL: Located on the busy waterfront of Norway's second largest city, the boutique Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret has 116 rooms and is part of Choice Hotels. THE CHECK-IN: The understated entrance was located on the side of the building and led the way into a bright lobby area with high-backed seats, elegant chandeliers and thick curtains, with purples, chocolate and golds the colours of choice. A chirpy receptionist speaking impeccable English quickly had me checked in, handed over some mail and gave a quick rundown of the hotel's facilities. THE ROOM: Located on the sixth floor amid the building's eaves, the quirky T-shaped room continued the theme of plush purple upholstery and dark wood furniture. There was a small sofa, chair, coffee table, desk, wall- mounted flatscreen TV, DVD player, wardrobe, minibar, ironing board – but, curiously, no iron – and a double bed with twin reading lights. There was no safe or tea/coffee facilities but both are available in reception free of charge. The bathroom was enclosed by a glass wall and curtains that could be pulled across. The shower was excellent and there was a selection of toiletries and a hairdryer. THE BUSINESS: Wifi internet access is free of charge and available throughout the hotel with
a code that changes daily. A meeting room is available for up to 40 people, and there were two computer terminals in a small room off reception, plus a printing and faxing service. THE FACILITIES: In the basement is a relaxation room together with a small gym, sauna and steamroom. There was a bar and seating areas on the ground floor together with a small library area. A coffee machine is available round the clock in the restaurant. Breakfast, afternoon pancakes and a good evening buffet are all served in the restaurant and included in the room rate.
THE VERDICT: This hotel fits the boutique category perfectly despite being part of the giant Choice Hotels group. The decor is tasteful, the staff were friendly and the inclusive wifi and evening buffet are excellent perks in a notoriously expensive country. THE DETAILS: Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret, Slottsgaten 1, 5003 Bergen, Norway. Rates can be found as low as £130 but can rise to over £300 for short-notice mid- week bookings. Tel: 0047 55 60 11 00; or see:
www.choicehotels.no for more information. ANDY HOSKINS
➔ SERVICED APARTMENT BRIDGESTREET, JERSEY
THE APARTMENT: Situated in the centre of St Helier, the capital of Jersey, BridgeStreet's Liberty Apartments comprise 63 studio, one and two-bedroom units. They are located right next door to the Jersey Tourist Office and above the central bus station. THE CHECK-IN: We were offered tea and coffee while completing the paperwork in the relaxing environment of the reception area, and were then shown to our apartment and given a quick tour of the facilities. Our bags were delivered shortly afterwards. THE APARTMENT: A very spacious two-bed apartment on the top floor with lovely views across the St Helier harbour. The main bedroom had an en-suite bathroom while another shower room was located down the hallway next to the second bedroom. The lounge area was a good size and had twin sofas, coffee table, dining table, sideboard, TV, iPod docking station, DVD player and access to a sizeable balcony with seating. At the end of the lounge was a kitchen with fridge/freezer, oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine and well stocked cupboards and drawers with a range of utensils and crockery. There was an additional TV in each of the bedrooms and a Hoover, iron and ironing board in the hall cupboard.
THE BUSINESS: A boardroom with the latest technology is available and there’s also a private terrace with tables and chairs for al fresco meetings or entertaining. There is complimentary wifi throughout the property. There is no parking on site, but off-street parking is available nearby. THE FACILITIES: There was a welcome pack of essentials, plus tea and coffee facilities in the reception area where croissants were also available in the morning. There is a weekly cleaning service, although new linen could be ordered at any time. A good choice of bars
and restaurants are just a short walk away in the centre of St Helier. THE VERDICT: A wonderful apartment offering great views across the harbour. Our apartment was particularly spacious with the added benefit of an extensive balcony area. The reception staff were extremely pleasant and helpful, and the location was perfect. THE DETAILS: Room rates are in the region of £100 per night (plus tax) or £630 (plus tax) for a seven-night stay. Tel: 020 7792 2222 or see:
www.bridgestreet.com. DAVID CLARE
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