阿姆斯特丹南部鑽石膠囊酒店 (Diamond Capsule Hotel Amsterdam South)

On the good points, the shower gel is acceptable, the receptionists are friendly (although not quite as competent and experienced as they could be), and the prices are currently reasonable. I would recommend if staying for no more than a single night and definitely don’t come without earplugs. However, there are quite some glaring negative points, namely the following: The biggest issue is noise. There is zero soundproofing, in addition to some large gaps around the cabin door. I could clearly hear and follow the discussion at the room next to me, the light switches going on and off, and all the private noises that one makes (from snoring to toilet), everything as if you shared the room. Goes without saying that all the clacking of doors opening / closing is heard beyond clearly. The hotel manager should consider providing earplugs as a standard. Really low quality of sleep because of that and major drawback. The air conditioner was half-functioning. The option of actually controlling the temperature was not functioning, with the only option that actually worked being the “wind” / ventilation option. Either they should fix it or it should come with working instructions, because a proper air conditioner is primordial when there are no windows. There is a big derelict building right next to this hotel, whose barriers have been violated and with multiple access points. Multiple people entered, and they were not the kind that you would like to cross at night. Wouldn’t feel safe walking once it’s dark, and not sure if it’s safe overall. I asked for a receipt once the city tax was settled (since this aspect was paid at the hotel) but reception refused and said “I will make a note on the computer that it is paid”. I asked twice more for some kind of proof of payment, to no avail. I hope this is a language-related miscommunication, but not providing proof of payment is rather stressing and just not acceptable. The cabin could have been designed in a much more ergonomic way. Indicatively, there are 2 electric plugs on the wall where there is nothing reasonably nearby to leave an electric device charging, while there is no plug near the desk (which is the main spot that one would seat). I’m not even talking about a USB port or similar. There is no receptionist presence from 23:00 to 7:00 which, from the safety perspective, just does not feel right. In case of an incident (e.g. fire or a burglar) or some need (forgotten card to access one’s cabin), apparently there is no one. Cleanliness could improve, but thankfully that aspect is not bad.

On the major positives, the personnel is friendly and listens to feedback. Pleasant interactions. Internet speed was very good. Location is acceptable albeit not entirely ideal, since it is not terribly close to public transport; however, it’s perfect if you have rented a bicycle. Cleanliness levels are well above average, at least for the time being. Air conditioning wasn’t working, but I was offered the choice to move and they will soon review all cabins since the hotel opened merely 2 weeks ago, so it’s normal that minor problems arise during use. On the negatives, noise-proofing is far from adequate if existing at all, but in practice that did not bother me a lot because other occupants were naturally quiet (with the exception of opening doors). Also, there is no presence of personnel from 23:00 until 7:00, which could be a limiting factor for some people. Also, not sure what happens in case of emergency or need (e.g. stepping outside but forgetting the cabin/room card). Also, according to the hotel policies in place, apparently no kids are allowed; this can be a major positive point for some, but it should also be taken into account when booking as relevant.