THON HOTEL SPECTRUM, Oslo

The hotel is located adjacent to Oslo Spektrum arena and surrounded by shopping centres such as Oslo City and Gunerius, as well as Karl Johans gate high street and numerous restaurants. The area is a lively, multicultural part of central Oslo with a high concentration of bars and late-night activity. The streets can feel less safe after dark, with reports of drug-related activity and groups of people congregating. For this reason, it is advisable to travel to and from the hotel via the main station exit and the well-lit main streets. The neighbourhood is practical for short business stops, concert visits, or transit stays, but those seeking a quiet residential feel may prefer a hotel further from the city centre. Access to the hotel via the adjacent Spektrum car park (automatic licence plate recognition) is straightforward for drivers, though the parking fees are steep.

Standard Single and Double rooms are efficient and well-equipped but are notably compact, particularly the bathrooms which are small enough to make movement difficult for taller guests. Suites and Business Rooms add a double bed, a sofa, a conference table, a seating area, and in the Suite a separate living room, dining area, bathtub, espresso maker, bathrobes, and slippers. Rooms with twin beds are available. Some rooms are located in the attic/eaves with restricted headroom and limited daylight. The heating system is centrally controlled and cannot be adjusted in some rooms, leading to occasional reports of rooms being too hot or too cold; portable heaters or fans are available on request. Windows can be opened in all rooms. Rooms facing the street experience significant noise from the adjacent bar and late-night street activity, while rooms on the quieter side of the building (usually overlooking the courtyard) are more peaceful. The hotel advises writing room preferences (quiet side, bath, etc.) at the time of booking so they can be allocated in advance.

The breakfast buffet is extensive, including hot items such as scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes, and potatoes, as well as cold cuts, cheeses, fresh fruit, cereals, and self-pressed orange juice. Gluten-free bread and cereals, and a dedicated vegan section with non-dairy milk and plant-based dishes, are available on request. Tea and coffee are available free of charge in the lobby throughout the day, alongside a selection of fruit and snacks. The hotel does not have a restaurant for lunch or dinner, but the surrounding streets offer a variety of dining options within a few minutes' walk. The bar/lounge serves drinks and light snacks during the evening. The complimentary evening reception is available on certain days.

The fitness room is compact but functional, with cardio machines, some strength equipment, and fitness/spa locker rooms. It is free for guests to use. The hotel does not have a pool, spa, or sauna. Nearby leisure options include green parks, the Opera House waterfront, and a walking tour of historic Sagene to the city centre (4-hour food walk, bookable). The indoor multisport simulator by Fornebu Golf can also be booked for football, ice hockey, frisbee golf, and baseball. For guests attending events at the adjacent Oslo Spektrum arena, the location is extremely convenient.

The hotel provides free WiFi in all areas, a 24-hour front desk, a baggage hold, and a complimentary newspaper in the lobby. Luggage storage is free of charge, useful for early arrivals or late departures. The laundry service (delivery to reception before 09:00, return same day) operates Monday to Friday for a fee; there are no guest washing machines. Dry cleaning and ironing are available at an additional charge. The hotel offers accessible parking (paid, nearby in the Spektrum car park) and has elevators and wheelchair-accessible rooms with extra space and grab bars. Business facilities include meeting rooms with flipover, screen, whiteboard, and wireless network. All public areas are non-smoking, and hypoallergenic rooms are available. Safety features include key card access, CCTV, smoke alarms, and a safety deposit box. The property does not have connecting rooms for families, but will try to place families close together. Shuttle service is available for an additional charge.