Motel One Amsterdam-Waterlooplein, Amsterdam, Netherlands

The hotel is located within Amsterdam's day-to-day normality rather than the uber-pretty tourist area. It is on a nondescript, busy and not particularly attractive street, with offices, shops and apartment blocks all around. However, it's pretty central. Waterlooplein metro station is nearby, just two stops from Centraal Station. The Jewish Historical Museum, Artis Zoo, the Portuguese Synagogue, Nieuwmarkt, Hortus Botannicus and Waterlooplein flea market are all very near.

By train: the Eurostar goes direct from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal. The hotel is a 20-minute walk from the station. Book trains to Amsterdam.

By plane: direct flights from London and Manchester take around 1 hour 15 minutes. The hotel is a 30-minute drive from Schiphol airport and a 15-minute walk from central station. Book flights to Amsterdam.

The lobby, lounge and bar area are impressive for a hotel that is in the 'affordable' range. Clearly, some care has been taken to make it inviting, with upcycled wooden furniture, a striking chandelier made from lampshades, blue and brown easy chairs, Chesterfield sofas and a huge table ideal for big groups or hitting the laptop. The bedrooms are more functional yet comfortable all the same.

For a hotel that is in the affordable or budget category, the staff were very accommodating and efficient, and the breakfast bar was never neglected if items needed restocking.

• Bar
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are very clean and decorated neutrally in shades of grey, mushroom and white, with good-sized shower rooms with a palette of grey granite, white and black. There's a safe, USB ports, a chair and side table and perhaps a sofa and desk. Windows are large and brighten the rooms, which are just the size needed for a comfortable stay. They have large bright blue curtains and are double-glazed to mask traffic noise.

Room types: The One, Special One

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, desk, TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

There is no restaurant and only breakfast and snacks are offered, but it's a nice space to start the day, and the breakfast spread, though not extensive, includes cheeses, meats, strong coffee, juices, bread, boiled eggs, croissants and pastries. The bar has a good selection of drinks, including local gins.

The One Lounge: cosy bar and lounge, with working space. Serving toasties, snacks and refreshments. Open 24-hours.