Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Stockholm

Courtyard by Marriott has chosen a location just beyond the city centre. During the tourist season you’re bound to run into a busload of Americans seeking home away from home. Everything here is familiar, from the airy but thickly carpeted room decorated in light pastels to all the creature comforts (which naturally include a/c). Receptionists are rushed off their feet, but always smile, dispensing advice to tourists from the four corners of the world. Come autumn it’s more of a business proposition. Most rooms are spacious. The empty fridge may disappoint, but the idea is that you buy something to put in it – there’s a shop by the reception. The bedside table drawer contains not just the Bible but also the Book of Mormon. There’s a gym on the third floor. The restaurant, Björk, lays out a cracking breakfast and serves tasty lunches and dinners. Its bar is very popular. And just outside the door you have a pleasant waterside promenade that leads all the way to the centre.