PLAZA Premium Almere

This hotel is highly regarded for its direct proximity to Almere Centraal station, a signature feature that makes it an excellent base for exploring the region. Guests consistently highlight the spacious rooms, excellent location for transport, and good value for money compared to accommodations in Amsterdam. The hotel is ideal for sightseers looking for convenient access to Amsterdam without the city's higher prices, business travelers due to its central location and transport links, and families who appreciate the larger room options and nearby amenities. While most guests praise the generally friendly staff, some experiences vary. To enhance your stay, consider utilizing the convenient self-service laundry facilities and exploring the diverse shopping and dining options available just steps away in Almere's city center.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers several convenient facilities for guests, including self-service laundry machines which are appreciated for longer stays. While a fitness center is available, some guests noted it is not directly part of the hotel. The Wi-Fi generally functions well, though some iPhone users reported slower speeds. A recurring point of disappointment for many guests is the rooftop pool, which was advertised but consistently found to be closed for various reasons. Rooms are equipped with an empty mini-bar, and some guests noted a lack of basic amenities like slippers or bathrobes. Vending machines are available for snacks and drinks, and a Spar convenience store is conveniently located nearby.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms spacious and modern, often featuring a kitchenette and a dining table, which are particularly useful for families or extended stays. Many rooms offer good views of the city. While some guests reported the beds as comfortable, others found them less so, with some mentioning issues with pillows. A significant number of reviews highlighted problems with the air conditioning, describing it as uncontrollable, too cold, or simply not working, compounded by the inability to open windows for fresh air. Noise levels are typically low despite the central location. Housekeeping is often by request only, and while many found rooms clean, some noted issues with thoroughness, including stains on furniture or hair on bedding.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on the hotel's breakfast is mixed. Many guests found it to be good or even excellent, offering a plentiful selection. However, some described it as lacking in variety, not premium, or expensive for what was offered, with items like cold cuts and cheese sometimes appearing dry. There were also consistent complaints regarding the breakfast area staff, who were sometimes perceived as inattentive, slow to clean tables, or not diligent in refilling popular items like croissants. The hotel also features a bar where guests can enjoy drinks. For alternative dining, numerous restaurants and cafes are easily accessible in the nearby city center.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major highlight, situated directly opposite Almere Centraal station. This provides exceptional accessibility for guests, with trains to Amsterdam taking only 20-30 minutes. The surrounding area is highly convenient, offering easy walking access to a large shopping center, numerous restaurants, and the vibrant city center of Almere. Public transportation links are excellent, making it simple to travel to various destinations. Parking is available, though some guests found it expensive and noted that the entrance to the hotel from the parking garage could be difficult to locate, requiring careful navigation.

Staff & Service
The majority of guests commend the reception staff for being friendly, helpful, and professional. Many experienced a quick check-in process, and staff were often praised for providing useful information about the city. However, some guests reported slow check-in experiences, particularly due to self-service iPad systems, and encountered unhelpful or dismissive responses when raising issues such as non-functional air conditioning or cleanliness concerns. While most housekeeping staff were seen as attentive, some specific instances of unprofessional behavior from certain employees, particularly in the breakfast area, were noted, impacting the overall guest experience.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is a significant advantage for guests traveling with animals. A recurring point of contention for many guests is the rooftop pool, which despite being advertised, was consistently closed during their stays, leading to disappointment. Some reviews mentioned the hotel houses a significant number of refugees, which some guests felt impacted the hotel's atmosphere, particularly during breakfast hours. Guests should also be aware of a destination fee that may apply. Furthermore, several guests reported initial difficulty in locating the hotel's main entrance or its associated parking facilities, suggesting better signage could be beneficial.