HIDDEN GUEST: Intercontinental Bucharest

This iconic building was for a long time the tallest skyscraper in Bucharest, known for both its incredible architecture as well as its height. The brainchild of American investor Cyrus Eaton Jr., construction of the hotel got under way in 1968, along with that of the National Theatre building. One of the requests from the outset was that it would have views over every part of the city and this was done expertly. Despite its age, even today one would agree that the hotel was brilliantly designed; the proud building still looks fresh and appealing, and is located right next to the city centre.

Bucharest is a huge city and consequently the traffic is busy as well; in fact it can be loud and choked with traffic, especially at the beginning and end of the week. It must also be said, however, that the public transport is well organised and year on year allows you to get to your destination easier. Meeting planners are also pleased at the improving airport accessibility, which is also close to town – from the hotel to the airport is just 15 km. If arriving at the hotel by car there’s an extra charge for parking, in which case the helpful concierge/porters will take care of your vehicle.

The mind behind the building, which was designed during the era of mega-megalomaniac Ceausescu, is Romanian architect Dinu Hariton. The building was conceived to be modern and furnished only by local interiors. The architecture really astonished us, firstly by its recognizable style that is not aggressive and moreover is today a part of the city’s image, but secondly its functionality is even more impressive, standing the test of time. The many retro elements in the interior are not in any way out of place, but rather they contribute to the architectural authenticity of the hotel experience, of which the lobby is a typical example, or the hotel bedrooms with balconies urging you to photograph the details – timeless! An exciting thing is that the hotel doesn’t have a 13th floor, due to the American way of building.

Amongst the many luxury hotels we’ve visited, this InterContinental is truly special. The staff is exceptionally kind and seem proud of their work at the legendary hotel. Once an oasis of the west, today it is still synonymous with fantastic service and great cuisine. The breakfast is served in the Corso Brasserie restaurant that transforms into a pleasant bistro during the day. Intermezzo Piano Bar is a popular cafe and a meeting space, but top spot is reserved for the Modigliani restaurant, famous for its excellent Italian cuisine for which it is recognised by the Ospitalita Italiana certificate, which is a warranty of authenticity and in this case is entirely justifiable.

The hotel rooms seem at first glance outmoded and from another era, but the charm of the story is in their combination of modern technology and retro looks, as well as the combination of fantastic bed linen and a well-equipped bathroom, which is all why the entire hotel still appears fresh and attractive. It is even the reason why the rooms can still today compete with more modern competitors.

The congress centre is amongst the biggest in the city and offers 14 halls, the biggest of which, the Ronda meeting hall, can host up to 450 persons and with its retro look and top of the line technical equipment is quite a stunner. The newest hall, Fortuna, is located on the 21st floor and was renovated not too long ago.

Given that many top celebrities have stayed in it, we recommend a visit to the 240m2 ‘Imperial Suite’. Alongside the luxurious furniture, a Steinway & Sons white piano rules the area – it wows every true music lover.

Noise sifts in from the street, as apparently the windows don’t really seal the best.

The staff – still setting the professional standards of high category hotels.

Celebrating its 46th anniversary this year, the hotel has hosted some famous guests and in the Romanian capital it broke the ice in the field of hotel management. It seems not to be affected by age, as the striking architecture has an allure even today.

From its very beginning the hotel has been aiming for the goal of being the best in the city. In recent years many new competitors have come along, but it is still holding on just fine. With its retro charm it excites the lovers of timeless classic and for all these years it has been a favourite among meeting planners. The final touch is the truly exceptional, professional and kind staff.