The Nordic Charm of Oslo Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel

Oslo is one of those classic Scandinavian cities with understated elegance and not too many people to interrupt your sense while exploring. On arriving in the city via the IC train from Stockholm, we made our way on foot from the subway (we always like to explore the route to the hotel if it is easily accessible) passing through the Royal Palace which is 200 meters away from the Radisson Blue Scandinavia Hotel in Oslo. mylifestylenews discovers......

Our room with a view overlooking the Royal Palace, Royal Park and the waterfront and fjord.

Without any detour, we arrived as planned. The lobby interior reflects that cool Nordic feel, unfussy design yet with simple and minimalist elements. The hanging pendant lighting, clusters of ottomans, arched ceiling panels akin to an airport arrival hall (think SAS airlines and there is the connection) and free standing check-in counters that stand out as soon as you pass through the lobby doors. without any doubts, The Radisson brand is synonymous with Scandinavia, turning the world Blu and a hotel designed to say YES!

The staff are efficient and so was the check-in. With 174 recently renovated guest rooms in a chic new urban style, our business class suite was very generous in proportions, spacious yet with large windows attracts lots of natural lights from outside. The room view is rather pleasant by overlooking the Royal Palace, Royal Park and the waterfront and fjord. The bathroom could possible do with a refresh and uplift, but having said that, it has everything we needed with.

The fireplace in the Lobby area.

The minimalist and chic design reflects the Scandinavian's charm and allure. Do not expect a double size duvet as it is quite normal for a couple to sleep with individual cover despite sharing the same bed.

The hotel clearly exudes that architectural style of no-fuss design, with wide corridors, that Scandinavian minimalist look and functional design when it comes to the guest rooms. All the usual amenities were provided and comfort was not forgotten when it comes to bedding. Most Scandinavian business hotels do not have a swimming pool unless it is a luxury deluxe hotel which is also quite common in this region. Yet, the hotel does cater well for all business needs.

Should you be in the mood for an evening cocktail or glass of wine, the hotel's roof top bar is a fabulous location. With 180 degree scenic views of the city, lit with long high architectural pendant lights. The greenery of the city becomes more apparent from this height, as Oslo has a feeling of almost being on the edge of a forest. We could not think of a better place to see the city as the sun goes down behind the Royal Palace. When the lights come up, it creates a different mood and style. The bar is not big yet rather cozy, later comers for happy hours after their busy day could possibly need to struggle a seat to unwind. There is certainly a degree of intimacy that fits in with the compactness of the city.

Breakfast is served at the Brasseriet and it looks more like a long banquet hall as the hotel was very busy and there were queues for a table. The chafing dishes on the buffet were piled high with food to meet the demand from the hordes of guests and this could mean that some of the food was not exactly at its best, both visually and taste wise. At least, there are some warm cooked eggs, bacon, sausages and mushroom available for international travelers.

All the usual dishes were there and variety from a Western perspective was never an issue. You could certainly start your day with a very full breakfast and no need to think about food again until lunch! The staff were doing their best to accommodate every guest  and turn the tables around in a very polite way. There are some fresh fruits, light Danish bakery and hot beverages available at the self serve counter in the lobby for early check out guests who couldn't make it to the Brasseriet before its opening time. The thought and act is rather sweet especially in this region.

With over 260 hotels around the globe and a few awards winning properties, the 22 storiews Oslo Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel overlooks the stunning fjord and only 500 meters from Karl Johans Gate and conveniently access to major attractions and transport options. For leisure or business, it has it all.

Tried & Tested :

Location : 4.5/5

Ambience : 4/5

Design & Decor : 3.5/5

Service : 4/5

Radisson Blu Scandinavia Oslo

Holbergst. 30 N 0166

Oslo Norway

Tel: +47 23 293 000