Ozo Hotel Amsterdam ★★★★

Welcome to a city with a whole treasure trove of artistic treats just waiting to be discovered. Where a network of canals weave around picturesque 17th-century architecture, reflecting the city’s rich past, yet seamlessly cohabit with the stylish and modern edge of this now cosmopolitan and liberal Capital. The striking contemporary architecture of the newly built four-star luxury Ozo hotel is a testament to the beautiful blending of the old and the new within the city. Located at the heart of the dynamic Zuid-Oost area of Amsterdam, known as the entertainment and shopping district. It is where you will find the Amsterdam Arena, the Heineken Music Hall and the Ziggo Dome. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk to the nearest station and then a further 15 minute journey by metro to Dam Square, ensuring quick and easy access to all the attractions of Amsterdam city centre.

I walk into the spacious and brightly lit lobby with its shimmering tiled floor and smiling reception staff. I had arrived by car, and was able to park at the hotel for free; an added convenience and one I know I would not be able to enjoy staying in a city centre hotel. My double room was stylishly decorated in warm and rich tones that gave a cosy feel, despite the obvious modern edge. A king-sized bed sat in the centre of the room, with a large imposing headboard. The 'peek-a-boo' bathroom, as I nicknamed it, was comprised of frosted glass walls, in this clearly quirky and contemporary design twist.

As a VeryChic customer I awoke to a free, and rather hearty, breakfast buffet. Another perk was the 10 percent discount offered for the restaurant, which served an international mix of dishes on its à la carte menu. The hotel was well equipped, from the use of a gym to Bar Savoy, serving drinks and snacks throughout the day and night.

After a short metro ride into the city I decided to explore like a local and hire a bicycle. It was actually a fun and rather efficient way to get around the city. The flat terrain made it very easy, which was good as I'd not so much as sat on a bike in years! There was something about whizzing along the canals that made me feel 10 years old again. I spent hours peddling around some of the 60 miles of canals that stretch around this city. I perhaps would have spent slightly less time if I had been sensible enough to buy a map first! (Top tip for you).

After an energetic morning of peddle power I was ready for a more sedate and relaxed activity. As a lover of art, Amsterdam is like a dream to me. There is a sheer wealth of artistry on offer in the city, with the Van Gogh museum, Rijksmuseum, Het Rembrandthuis, the Hermitage Amsterdam...the list goes on. I made sure I took in as many as possible. Immersing yourself in the world of some of the most gifted painters of all time truly transforms the soul. As Van Gogh said himself: