New Amsterdam aparthotel combines character with modern living
The launch of SACO’s Aparthotel Wittenberg in Amsterdam reflects the agility of serviced apartment providers in meeting business traveller and relocation demand as Brexit moves gather momentum. Fiona Murchie was there.
Relocate Editorial
24 January 2018
Despite inclement weather as storm Friederike hit the Netherlands with hurricane-strength winds battering much of the country and causing transport chaos, the launch of Aparthotel Wittenberg on 18 January provided a safe haven. This new boutique aparthotel – offering 115 apartments on the canal-side – is an historic 18th century property, which has been sympathetically restored to its former grandeur. The property retains its remarkable original features while providing the warmth and welcome of contemporary living and a unique place to call home.
SACO opens first aparthotel in Europe
Wittenberg is the newest property and first location in Europe by SACO The Serviced Apartment Company, one of the UK’s leading serviced apartment providers in the corporate relocation market.Ben Harper, SACO’s Commercial Director, speaking at the launch event said, “We’re excited to see our move into European locations realised, and we have received feedback from our first guests that the Wittenberg offering is exactly what modern travellers are looking for – a lifestyle option hitting the spot between serviced apartments and hotels. It was also a pleasure to host so many key members of the European relocation community at the opening event and to see that our future plans are exactly aligned to match the trends and challenges that they are managing as global workforces become increasingly mobile.” Having visited many serviced apartments in my time as managing editor, I would say that this property ticks all the boxes. Amsterdam is set to be the destination of an increasing number of relocating employees as a result of Brexit. Having already recently won the relocation choice of the European Medicines Agency (relocating to the Dutch capital in 2019), it will be a very welcome accommodation solution for those exploring projects in the city or starting a new international assignment. Judging from the reaction of the relocation professionals previewing the apartments and the local corporate HR representatives attending the launch, these properties will be in hot demand. Related stories:
Each spacious, bright apartment is fully equipped with a kitchen, free superfast Wi-Fi and a Smart TV with multi-channel choice, offering a comfortable urban retreat. Chic furnishings and clever interior design provide the wow factor in apartments that range in size from studios to one and two bedrooms, many with lovely views over the canal. The Wittenberg also boasts two superb 3-bedroom apartments including the delightful ‘little house’, which will be much coveted by families on the move. The layout of this historic estate provides a myriad of beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, including two central cobbled courtyards and landscaped gardens – exclusive to guests and ideal for gatherings or some quiet down time. For the business user or relocating family there is the opportunity to be sociable if you choose or to enjoy privacy in the relaxed surroundings.
An ideal location in Amsterdam
Location is everything for business travellers and those embarking on an international assignment. The Aparthotel Wittenberg is located on the eastern side of Amsterdam in the tranquil Plantage district, with a wide range of shops, restaurants and bars in the surrounding area, and only a short walk from the city centre. Close to Amsterdam University and its Business School and within easy distance of the Dutch National Opera and Ballet at the Opera House, the location offers a rich dynamic for both making connections and serving the academic and creative community. The discerning financial and tech sector business user will find something a little different that marries a conducive work environment with a sympathetic neighbourhood and good transport links.Milo Smits, Wittenberg's General Manager, commented, “We’re proud that we are able to give the attentive service of a boutique hotel with the convenience and independence of residential living as our guests settle into the area for their stay, for a week or more.”Combining a unique setting with contemporary living, Aparthotel Wittenberg is set to be a popular choice with the relocation community.Find out why the Netherlands is on trend to be the next relocation hotspot and how you can support employees relocating there in the Spring issue of Relocate magazine – out in March.
Think outside the box
Explore what the future holds for global mobility teams. Don’t miss our Festival of Global Mobility Thinking on 11 May 2018. The full-day interactive event will feature a host of speakers, exhibitors and roundtables to explore how innovation and new technologies are driving companies through a rapidly evolving business landscape. Book now.Gala Awards Dinner, Thursday 10 May: Join us for a night of celebration at the UnderGlobe beneath Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, London SE1 9DT. Book here.
Read more about the Serviced Apartment Industry in the Spring issue of our magazine
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©2018. This article first appeared in the Spring 2018 edition of Relocate magazine, published by Profile Locations, Spray Hill, Hastings Road, Lamberhurst, Kent TN3 8JB. All rights reserved. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of Profile Locations. Profile Locations accepts no liability for the accuracy of the contents or any opinions expressed herein. 
