Berns Hotel Stockholm

I just got back from Stockholm Fashion Week during which I stayed at Berns Hotel, in the heart of Ostermalm, a chic area in the centre of the Swedish capital. As any fashion journalist will tell you, fashion week is a stressful affair that makes you crave comfort and heartwarming dinners at the end of long days with little food.

Berns is the official hotel of Stockholm Fashion Week and as such, it becomes a home away from home for most of the international press as well as some of the national press and other industry figures. I was given a spacious room on the 4th floor with two private balconies overlooking the quiet courtyard. Since I was there on business, what was the most important for me were the desk space and internet connexion - both were absolutely perfect. The wi-fi was fast and free, which is a rarity even in the most luxurious five star hotels and the desk itself was roomy enough and fitted with plugs and an efficient light. It even doubled up as a dressing table in the morning!

The bed was nested in the opposite end of the room, facing a giant flat screen TV - great for winding down at the end of a hard day spent running around the shows. Soft and cosy, with a window next to it, it had the comforting feeling of home. My bathroom had only a shower - a large one - and was very functional. Toiletries were generously distributed and had a lovely fragrance. 

Magazines were also available in the room as well as an exhaustive Stockholm guide. For those who need it, iPads are available to rent at the front desk for 99 SEK per day (approximately ￡9). All iPads are preloaded with useful apps. Breakfast is complimentary and is available either as a buffet in the restaurant or in your room for an extra 50 SEK service (approximately ￡5).

Location wise, Berns is the most practical place to stay during Fashion Week (a lot of the shows take place there or around it) but it is also a brilliant place to stay for a short weekend break. All the luxury retailers are within walking distance and so are several touristy attractions, including museums, theatres and boat tours.

Berns Salonger | Berzelii Park | P.O Box 163 40 | SE-103 27 Stockholm, Sweden | Phone: +46 (0)8 566 322 00 | Fax: +46 (0)8 566 322 01 | mail: info@berns.se

- Laetitia Wajnapel