Arrival

Arriving at Hotel Essens, I was greeted with an extremely friendly receptionist who enthusiastically explained to me the three bespoke scents the hotel’s perfumer created. I was then guided to the Perfume wall, where the three fragrances are described in detail, from inspiration to ingredients.

The entire perfume-welcome took a bit of time and was a fantastic way to arrive. After I chose my preferred odour, I received a giftbox with shampoo, balsam, body wash and body lotion as well as a small soap in my chosen bouquet. The welcome was enthusiastic and gave the hotel character.

Design and decor

The entire theme of the hotel is based on scent. There are perfume bottles and perfume-making tools on display everywhere as well as large photos of flowers hanging on the walls.

Each floor has its own aroma wafting out of transparent receptacles found in the staircases, with descriptions of the fragrance. It was a fun exercise to try and define where one scent ends and the next begins. I have never had this experience before and I think it was a brilliant detail.

Ambiance

When I visited the hotel it had only been opened for three weeks and it was missing a bit of personality. It felt a bit too new. There was no room service, bar or restaurant and I find that truly affects the atmosphere. There was a communal sitting room with tea and coffee and access to a sunny roof terrace. It was pretty and pleasant but, again, lacking people and ambiance.

Room

The room was agreeable but no special design to speak of, certainly, nothing that matched the hotel’s theme. Everything functioned properly, but no more than that. There was nevertheless a brand new Nespresso machine. I was lucky to have a room with a balcony and a superb view of the city center.

Products

Besides the cute box of bath products, I also received delicious almonds, a sweet little book, and ballpoint pen as a welcome gift. There were however no more goodies waiting for me in the room.

Service

The staff is super-sweet, helpful and very friendly.

The perfume theme is original and the few but very friendly staff gave the hotel its character. It was a fun adventure and good quality for your money but I wouldn’t suggest it for a longer stay.

Having said that, it was an experience I will always remember!

Overall

• The perfume theme and the few but very friendly staff gave the hotel its character and gave me an experience that I will remember

• I can highly recommend this hotel

• It was a fun adventure and good quality for your money

• I wouldn’t suggest it for a longer stay

Total rating out of 5 hearts

Comfort:❤️ ❤️ ❤️ 

Style: ❤️❤️❤️

Friendship:❤️ ❤️❤️❤️