About six hours west of Oslo, is Norway’s lesser known brother, Bergen.
Historic, quiet, and rich with nature and sweeping fjords, Bergen is luscious yet unassuming. It’s a place where beauty speaks for itself, a destination where a little exploration reaps big and priceless benefits. Surrounded by large mountains, Bergen’s city center is characterized by historical brick buildings, Gothic churches, and a quiet and inviting city park. The city is a natural beauty, brought to life by mountain air, and the fresh energy of the lively fjords. No frills, flashiness, or tourist fluff to be found here.
During my time in Bergen, I had the pleasure of staying in the heart of the city center at Basic Hotel Bergen. Don’t let the name fool you, because it’s nothing short of a comfortable, and enjoyable stay. Unlike bigger tourist cities, Bergen isn’t replete with chain hotels that stick out against the city’s backdrop. Basic Hotel Bergen is blended into the old buildings around it, wedged into its native surroundings. And as many travelers agree, doing like the Romans do is always better than going commercial.
With a modest four floors, Basic Hotel Bergen has its rooms set up along straight halls, with large numbers marking each door, and quirky wall decals on each floor. The energy is laid back and down to earth, and in many ways, you feel more like you’re in a nice dorm rather than a hotel. That’s because there’s a surplus of privacy, with minimal interference from the relaxed yet welcoming reception. As a result, guests get to be independent and make themselves feel right at home.
As a small boutique hotel, Basic Hotels offers a straightforward, humble stay. Purple and gold accents make up the hotel’s main colors, and the interior is simple, modern, and quirky. My room was on the fourth floor, a small but comfortably sized room with a queen size bed. Norwegian Melkesjokolade chocolates were a sweet touch, awaiting me atop the plush pillows and an all-white comforter. The bath area, though small, was spotless with modern amenities.
While simple, my stay was inviting yet modest, much like the city of Bergen is. Lodged right in the Bergen’s city center, Basic Hotels is the homey local stay, where a step outside puts you right into the heart of the city. Only minutes away from the train center and airport shuttles, the location is ideal for adventuring travelers. Hakonsgaten, the street the hotel sits on, is lined with shops and restaurants. There are also local bars and pubs right around the corner. Because the hotel is wedged right into the block, it’s supremely easy to miss. The next to you come to Bergen, see if you can find yourself in the comfortable hideaway.
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Photos provided Basic Hotel Facebook
