WHERE TO STAY IN AMSTERDAM: THE HOXTON

Last weekend for Simon’s birthday I decided to treat him to a few days in Amsterdam. We had both been separately before so this time we kept it simple exploring new areas.Amsterdam is such a pretty city, with amazing architecture and relaxed vibe. We stayed at the Hoxton (slowly making my way around all the hotels), which is situated in The Nine Streets. This location is perfect for those who want to shop independent boutiques, quaint coffee shops and cool bars.

Of course I had to sample the packcakes for breakfast, which get a 10/10 and most evenings before dinner were spent sampling a few cocktails in the cosy corner of the mezzanine in the lobby.The "lobby" is never quite as it sounds at the Hoxton. Like all the Hoxton hotels this is a meeting point for tourists and locals alike. People working on laptops or eating and drinking. It's the perfect little hub to unwind...after a hard day cycling the city. ha!

THINGS TO DO

Most of our time was spent restaurant hopping. With numerous sweet treats and coffee consumed along the way. Apart from that one time we hired bicycles. I joke that I’m not a fan of cycling but it really was fun and a great way to see the city – albeit being freezing. So bikes, I would recommend.

For coffee and cake we did:  Sticky Fingers, Peejay Doughnuts and Lot Sixty One.

For dinner we dined at Panache and The Lobby at Hotel V

Drinks: Door74, The Pulitzer and The Hoxton

Our stay was provided by the Hoxton but hands down would recommend ALL their hotels.