The Hague Marriott: Luxury Awaits in the Heart of Netherlands!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my experience at The Hague Marriott. And let me tell you, it was a ride! Forget those sterile, robotically-perfect reviews – this is the real deal, warts and all. Consider this your no-holds-barred, slightly manic, and hopefully helpful, deep dive.
First Impressions & Accessibility - A Mixed Bag, But Mostly Good!
Okay, so right off the bat, getting to the Marriott was a breeze. Airport transfer options are plentiful, and thankfully, the hotel prides itself on accessibility. (Accessibility) They tout facilities for disabled guests, and honestly, that's a HUGE win in a city stroll. Wheelchair accessible? Yes! I saw ramps, elevators, and thoughtfully designed spaces, and I could tell they really are working to make it an inclusive experience . Elevator, Check! Facilities for disabled guests? I’d lean towards "yes, definitely trying," and that means a lot.
Now, the front desk… (Front desk [24-hour]). 24-hour service is always a relief when you're arriving at some ungodly hour, jet-lagged and desperately needing a beer. The staff, in my experience, were a mix of shining stars and… well, let's just say some could use a little more pep. One particular check-in experience felt a little like pulling teeth. But, they were helpful in a pinch. (Contactless check-in/out) - a definite bonus in these COVID times.
Cleanliness & Safety - They're Trying Hard!
Let's talk safety. Because, let's be honest, after the year we've had in the world, it's paramount. (Cleanliness and safety) The Marriott really leans into this. They've got all the bells and whistles: (Anti-viral cleaning products), (Professional-grade sanitizing services), (Rooms sanitized between stays), (Daily disinfection in common areas), (Hand sanitizer) EVERYWHERE. It's almost… too much? (I kid, I kid!). Felt safe, and that's what matters. I spotted (CCTV in common areas), (CCTV outside property), (Security [24-hour]), (Smoke alarms), (Fire extinguisher) – the works. (Hygiene certification) – check! My personal favorite? (Room sanitization opt-out available). Because sometimes, you just want to breathe freely, you know?
Rooms - Okay, Let's Talk About MY Room…
My room. Ah, my room. (Available in all rooms, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathrooms phone,** Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens)
It was… spacious. Maybe even a little too spacious. I got lost a couple of times just going from the bathroom to the bed. The (Extra long bed) was ridiculously comfy, I'll give it that (and I needed it after my plane ride). The (Blackout curtains) were a godsend for fighting jet lag, but, the room's sound proofing was top-notch. Now, I did notice a slight lack of personality. Think "comfortably generic hotel room." Clean? Absolutely. Luxurious? Perhaps not quite the word. But it had everything I needed and more.
Internet - Glorious, Free Wi-Fi!
Yes! (Internet, Internet [LAN]) (Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!) It worked. It was FAST. I worked, I binged Netflix, I Facetimed my cat. No complaints. That's all I ask. (Wi-Fi in public areas) Also available, if you fancy doing a little remote work in the lobby.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking - Food, Glorious Food (and Booze!)
The (Restaurants) are where things got interesting. There's a definite focus on catering to international tastes. (International cuisine in restaurant), (Asian cuisine in restaurant), (Western cuisine in restaurant), (Vegetarian restaurant) all exist.
- The Breakfast Buffet (Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant): Oh, the buffet. A glorious spread of both good and not-so-good. The pastries were divine. Seriously. I may have eaten three croissants before noon. The coffee… let's just say it served its purpose. (Coffee/tea in restaurant) - available!
- A la Carte (A la carte in restaurant): You could get food at the restaurant, but unless you are really into waiting and spending some money, I encourage you to venture out.
- Bar (Bar), (Poolside bar): The bar… a haven. Happy hour was happy. (Happy hour) The cocktails were expertly mixed, and the bartenders were actually friendly (a rarity, it seems). The (Poolside bar) was a nice touch, for those who are inclined to the (Swimming pool [outdoor])
- Room Service (Room service [24-hour]): A lifesaver when you're crashed out from exploring the city. The menu was extensive, and the food arrived surprisingly quickly.
- Snacks, Snacks, Snacks: (Coffee shop), (Bottle of water), the little (Convenience store).
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Spa Day, Anyone?
This is where the Marriott really shines. (Pool with view) The pool area is gorgeous. (Swimming pool) - outdoor. The (Fitness center, Gym/fitness) is pretty well-equipped The (Spa)…. Ah, the spa. I did the whole shebang: (Massage), (Sauna), (Steamroom). (Spa/sauna) - Double Winner! The masseuse was phenomenal. The sauna was… hot. The steam room, steamy. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of pounding the pavement exploring The Hague. Really, the whole relaxation area felt like another world.
Services and Conveniences - Helpful, But Potentially Pricey.
Services and conveniences, Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center
The Marriott offers a whole host of services. (Concierge) was genuinely helpful . (Dry cleaning) and (Laundry service) were available, which I appreciated. (Cash withdrawal) from an ATM on-site. The (Business facilities) seemed pretty comprehensive. BUT… some of these things come at a price. Be prepared to open your wallet for things like parking, and certain activities.
For the Kids - Family Friendly But Limited Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal The Marriott welcomes families, but I can't speak to the experience as I didn't travel with children.
Getting Around - Easy Peasy
Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking
Getting around? Easy. (Airport transfer) is offered. Taxis are readily available, and the hotel is located in a walkable area.
The Verdict - Is it Worth it?
Yes.
Why?
- Location, Location, Location: Smack-dab in the heart of The Hague. Everything is at your fingertips.
- Relaxation Factor: The spa and pool are legit.
- Safety and Cleanliness: They take it seriously.
- Free Wi-Fi: A necessity!
- Accessibility
What You Might Want to Consider:
- The room, while comfortable, lacks a certain "wow" factor.
- Some staff members could benefit from a little more enthusiasm.
- Parking and extra services can add up.
Okay, buckle up Buttercup, because this "itinerary" is less a meticulously planned trip and more a messy, glorious, and slightly-terrifying tumble through The Hague. Forget efficiency, embrace the chaos. This is my trip, and you're just along for the ride. And I swear, if I see one perfectly-square-scone-with-a-precisely-placed-dollop-of-cream, I'm going to lose it.
The Hague, Netherlands: A Slightly-Drunk-But-Mostly-Functional Adventure
Day 1: Arrival, Anxiety, and the Airport Blues (Plus, a Surprisingly Good Herring)
- 8:00 AM (Amsterdam Schiphol Airport): Okay, first off, getting through Schiphol is like navigating a giant, chrome-plated labyrinth designed by M.C. Escher. Endless corridors, confusing signs, and the constant hum of existential dread. I swear, I spent a good twenty minutes just staring at a map, convinced I was going to end up in a storage closet. Found a vending machine selling stroopwafels - survival tactic acquired.
- 9:30 AM (Train to The Hague): Train travel in the Netherlands: efficient, clean, and slightly… sterile? It’s like everyone’s on a silent pact to not make eye contact. I, of course, broke the code. Accidentally made eye contact with a very stern-looking woman who then hid behind her newspaper. Note to self: embrace the Dutch reserve.
- 10:30 AM (The Hague Marriott Hotel - Check-in): The lobby. Finally! The Marriott lobby is swanky and slightly overwhelming when you're still recovering from the airport, like a posh alien spaceship. Thankfully, the check-in staff were kind. My room looks out over a bleak office park. Great. Just great.
- 11:30 AM (A Wander, Panic, and Unexpected Delight): Figured I'd take a stroll, shake off the travel grogginess. Ten minutes later, panic set in. Everything looked the same. Cobblestones, bicycles, and the general feeling that I was woefully unprepared. Found a charming little fish stall near the Binnenhof (that's the parliament, FYI). Took a leap of faith, ordered a herring. And…wow. It was incredible. Silky, salty, the onion bite… I might be in love. This, my friends, is what I came for. The small, unexpected joys!
- 1:00 PM (Hotel Room and Regret): Back in the room. Reality hits. Am I forgetting something? Did I pack enough underwear? Should I have learned more than "hello," "thank you," and "beer" in Dutch? Mild existential crisis ensues.
- 2:00 PM (Attempt at Culture - The Mauritshuis): Okay, I'm supposed to see the Girl with a Pearl Earring. It's the law. The museum itself is beautiful, a former palace, all polished wood and hushed whispers. I'm expecting to have my breath taken, to be moved to tears. I get there and BAM. The painting is tiny. Adorable. And guarded by more people than an Olympic gold medal. There's a queue. The line is long. I pushed through. She's tiny! But the light is amazing. Totally worth the wait. I actually stood and stared for ten beautiful minutes. Then I bought the postcard.
- 4:00 PM (Coffee, Maybe a Little Wine): Because art appreciation is thirsty work. Found a cute cafe near the Grote Markt. Ordered some, uh, coffee. Had to point at things. Successfully managed to mumble "dank u" (thank you). Feel like a local. Decided a glass of wine to celebrate my conquering of the line at the Mauritshuis was in order.
- 6:00 PM (Dinner - Somewhere, Anywhere): Haven't researched food yet. Impulse is key. Will wander until hunger dictates.
- 8:00 PM (Dinner): Found a cute little place near the Grote Markt. Ordered a steak. Enjoyed the steak. Tried to say Danke. Felt like a complete buffoon. Never gonna learn this language.
- 9:00 PM (Hotel Room - Collapse): Jet lag. Sensory overload. Brain… fried. Bed. Bliss. Praying for tomorrow.
Day 2: Beach Dreams and Dutch Dithering
- 8:00 AM (Wake Up): The office park outside my window still looks bleak. Coffee is my friend.
- 9:00 AM (Breakfast) : Hotel breakfast buffet. Ah, the siren song of endless pastries. I'm suddenly very happy to be alive. Got a croissant. Got jelly. Got butter.
- 10:00 AM (Scheveningen Beach – The Plan): Everyone raves about the beach at Scheveningen. Visions of sun, sand, and seagulls. I’m picturing myself, windswept and glamorous (because what else will I be doing?).
- 10:30 AM (Scheveningen – The Reality – Part 1): Found the tram. Got on the wrong tram (obviously). Got off the wrong tram. Wandered aimlessly. Asked for help. Apparently, I need the number 9. Success! Found the beach!
- 11:00 AM (Scheveningen - The Reality - Part 2): The beach. Grey skies. Wind. Waves. People bundled in coats. It's lovely, in a bracing, windswept, "you'll catch a cold" kind of way. I bought a coffee and sat on a bench, watching the waves. It was unexpectedly peaceful. The seagulls are also quite opinionated.
- 1:00 PM (Beachside Lunch): Found a cute little beachfront cafe, completely wind-battered, but still smiling. Ate a huge plate of fries. The salty, golden goodness was a spiritual experience. Watched the waves. Felt my soul slowly unclench. Maybe this beach thing wasn't so bad after all.
- 3:00 PM (The Hague (again)): Decide to wander. Try to use the google maps, but the wifi is a nightmare. Get lost again. Admire the architecture. Get slightly agitated. Embrace the getting lost.
- 4:00 PM (Shopping - A Disaster): My idea was to blend in. Buy a jacket that says 'The Hague' on it. I walk into a shop. No one speaks English. I try pointing. I say "ja" with a question mark at the end. Nothing. I leave. My blending in plan is falling horribly.
- 6:00 PM (Dinner): Need something easy tonight. Something I can point at. Search for a restaurant near the hotel.
- 7:00 PM (Restaurant): Ordered what I thought was pasta. It wasn't pasta. It was something delicious and creamy and I don't know what it was. Didn't care. Ate it all.
- 8:00 PM (Hotel Chaos): Ordered a glass of wine to my room and wrote.
- 9:00 PM (Collapse): Bed time.
Day 3: Farewell and a Few More Quirks
- 8:00 AM (Last hurrah): Last breakfast! Still overwhelmed with the pastries. Trying to force myself to eat everything before leaving.
- 10:00 AM (Hotel checkout): All went well. No drama. Just slightly sad to go.
- 11:00 AM (One Last Stroll): One last wander through the city, soaking it all in. The canals, the buildings. I actually felt myself starting to feel at home.
- 12:00 PM (A Final, Glorious Meal(Again)): Found a little place on the way to the train station.
- 1:00 PM (Train to Airport): Train is uneventful.
- 2:00 PM (Airport): Airport is the same level of confusion. Find Gate. Feel relief.
- 3:00 PM (Flight): Home, I come!
Emotional Roundup:
- Best Moment: That herring, hands down. And that glass of wine, and those fries.
- Worst Moment: The airport. Still gives me palpitations.
- Unexpectedly Wonderful: How beautiful and calm the beach was.
- Will I Return: Absolutely.
- Would I Recommend This Itinerary: Definitely not. But also, maybe. Just be ready for the chaos and embrace the unexpected. And for God's sake, eat the herring. You won't regret it.
The Hague Marriott: Luxury Awaits...ish? My Ramblings and Honest Truths
So, is The Hague Marriott really luxurious? Because, you know... travel blogs.
What's the deal with the location? Is it actually "in the heart of Netherlands"? (Because, geographically speaking...)
The breakfast buffet. Worth the hype (and the price)?
Any memorable experiences (good or bad)? Spill the tea!
What's the Wi-Fi situation? Because, you know, gotta stay connected.
Would you stay there again? The ultimate gut feeling.
