by Geri Bain

From the moment we walked into Stockholm’s Nordic Light Hotel, my husband and I sensed an energetic, social vibe—and the appeal to Millennials was apparent. The lobby feels like a cross between a trendy bar and a spacious Starbucks. Stalactite-like lights hanging from the ceiling subtly emit changing patterns of color onto the walls as guests relax on couches or perch on stools, chatting and looking at their devices. Next to the sleek check-in desk are a few bicycles that guests can borrow and a small display case with colorful crafts and art for sale. The lively living room-style lobby flows into the hotel’s Crooked Leg restaurant and bar, which has a bartender’s guest table in the back. And of course, there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

The hip vibe carries through into the hotel’s 175 guest rooms, which feature the clean, simple lines and neutral tones of Scandinavian design. In a city where winter days can bring less than five hours of daylight, Nordic Light rooms add the fun option to play with lighting colors and projections to suit changing moods. Rooms also have thoughtful touches like a coffee-maker, laptop-size safe, cable TV and great sound insulation.

A member of Design Hotels, Nordic Light has a number of other fun features. A special spot in the lobby is set aside for its artist-in-residence when there’s one in-house. Each guest artist is invited to live at the hotel for a month as they work and interact with guests in a special lobby workspace. In fact, much of the artwork in the lobby was produced by these visiting artists.

Breakfasts, included in the hotel rates, bring an extensive buffet with Scandinavian and international choices, including three types of herring, fresh-made waffles and a wide array of cheeses, meats and breads; lunch and dinner menus feature a similar mix of cuisines. A separate nightclub, with a private entrance for hotel guests, is popular with locals, thanks to its acclaimed DJs and convenient location, steps from Stockholm’s Central station. Plus, across the street is the famous Ice Bar.

We loved being at the hub of the city’s transportation network and surrounded by dining and shopping options. From here, it was a leisurely 15 minute walk to Stockholm’s historic district. And when we were ready to head back to the airport, the airport rail link terminal was a two-minute walk down the street.

http://nordiclighthotel.com