stop searching: this is the coolest hotel in Utrecht

It's buzzing on all sides in the heart of the country. Really, Utrecht my city is shining lately. One trendy place after another is popping up, Hoog Catharijne has had a mega makeover and yes, even an old monastery is being transformed into an Instagram worthy place. Enter: The Anthony, the boutique hotel on Kanaalstraat in Lombok.

The Anthony is located in two monumental buildings: the former parish house and the monastery of St. Antonius, both opposite the Antonius church. It's one of those typical places where you step inside and immediately know: ohhh. Followed by aaah, this is going to be great. It feels almost ‘un-Utrechts’ hip. The nice pink staff uniforms, the cool interior (oak tables, golden accessories, pink poufs, marble everywhere you look!). But also the monastery garden and the bar at the entrance immediately catch your attention. The hotel has apparently been open for a year, but I must have missed the message – whoops. Luckily, the hotspot is forgiving for this part-time Utreg resident.

After a night’s sleep with my love, I can say: we are spoiled. From the moment that door swung open, annoying millennial buttons in my head were activated. Must. Film. Pink. Palace. Error. The gigantic freestanding bath. Those characteristic beams on the ceiling. The golden clothing rack I had been searching for three years. A PINK SHOWER. To be honest: we went into that room and only rolled out 24 hours later. Only for a Valentine’s dinner in the restaurant did we trot downstairs for a bit. And I must say: those oysters are next level.

That’s the nice thing about a staycation: you don’t really have to do anything. Being on vacation while being at home is the greatest luxury ever. Say, if you happen to miss me soon, there’s a good chance you’ll have to drag me out by my hair on Kanaalstraat. Because Anthony, you and I, friend, we are a match.

P.S.: Got a day in Utrecht planned?
– Grab your coffee at 30ml. The Village is also a classic.
– Get a sandwich at Bigoli in the afternoon. The best. (Choose olive bread, yo!)
– Have a cocktail in the evening at Mr. Finch on Drieharingenstraat.
– Dine at San Siro (reserve by the window) for perfect Italian.
– Or go to The Streetfood Club, Rum Club or Ruby Rose if you want to stay in the Instagram worthy vibe.