Radisson Blu Tromsø Review

Tromsø is a surprisingly lively and developed town despite being so far north. The Radisson Blu Tromsø is located right in the center of town at the ferry terminal for busy Hurtigruten. The airport bus also stops right outside the door. You can't beat the location.

Check-in was in typical Norwegian fashion - super-fast, friendly and with a no-nonsense attitude. The agent recognized my Gold status and told me the room would be ready at 10AM.

Rates at the hotel are very reasonable (especially given the super-high general price level in Norway) at just about $120 in the main summer season.

The room turned out to be a mini suite, with fantastic views over Tromsø Harbor and the dramatic scenery around the area. The views were just magnificent and you could smell the water from the room. I was not expecting this!!

The room was modern but not the newest anymore. The mattresses were way too soft and the bathroom functional but not luxurious.

I took a look at the laundry list and shirts cost you $6 per wash. That wasn't entirely surprising, so I walked to the local launderette and dropped off my laundry there for a much better price (and they delivered it back to the Radisson Blu for free since they do all the hotel laundry).

There is a 'Safari Desk' downstairs where you can book tours and the hotel is apparently a major conference destination (though that area was under renovation while I was there).

The breakfast in the morning wasn't my favorite and while it had all the standard items of other Radisson Blu hotels, it seemed lower quality and the whole spread was removed right at 10AM without warning.

The staff seemed extremely friendly at all times and fluent in English. I can't think of a way they could have been more friendly or helpful.

All in all, this is a solid option and I loved that upgrade to the superior room with the awesome views. I wish the hotel itself would have more of a wow factor, though.