When I first heard about the street that Swissôtel is located on, Damrak, I figured it would be a bad option because that is the main thoroughfare leading directly to Central Station. As someone who prefers the out-of-the-way type hotels, being located practically on Dam Square with all the people, trams, and hoopla, did not sound comfortable.

Then I went there to see family members who were spending a weekend in Amsterdam, and over the course of three days I walked around, chatted with the friendly staff, and got the feel for this busy hotel.

Like all Swissôtels, there are a number of things you can count on: efficiency, 24 hour service, functional though small rooms, and cleanliness. In the case of Amsterdam's Swissôtel you get all of this, plus a very advantageous location if you want to see the different parts of the city while doing it mostly on foot or public transport. If you've ever fretted about getting from the train station to the place you're staying when you arrive in a new city, staying here eliminates that concern.

That said, everything is quite small. Facilities are not quite and functional and shiny as they probably were 10 years ago. And since it is so small and centrally located, there's not much in terms of extras and it is never not busy.

So if you seek reliable, convenient, comfortable, and predictable, Swissôtel should be on your short list.