Arena

Frommer's Review

A reconverted Roman Catholic orphanage from 1890 houses a friendly, stylish, youth-oriented hotel. Although the exterior bears a passing resemblance to Dracula's castle, the interior proves they really knew how to do orphanages in those days. Monumental marble staircases, cast-iron banisters, stained-glass windows, marble columns, and original murals have all been faithfully restored. The rambling spaces where the dormitories once were now house stylish doubles and twins. Spare modern rooms, some that are split-level, and some that sport timber roof beams and wooden floors, are individually decorated by young up-and-coming Dutch designers. You still see kids toting backpacks, yes, but they're a better class of backpack than those that clog corridors in the city's hostels and cheap hotels. The Continental cafe-restaurant To Dine looks a little like an upgraded cafeteria, but has a great alfresco terrace in the garden and an attached bar, To Drink. Hotel guests get discounted admission to the nightclub To Night, which spins music from the 1960s onward in the old orphanage chapel.

Facilities:
Restaurant (Continental); bar; executive rooms

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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