Explore Rotterdam with Samme of Unplugged

August 23, 2022

Explore Rotterdam with Samme Hilbers of Unplugged

Located in the creative and progressive city of Rotterdam, Hotel Unplugged reimagines what a hotel stay can be. By focusing on community and shared experiences, you will find co-working space and communal coffee hangouts, offering guests a chance to plug-in to a hotel, to feel Unplugged. And after a day of exploring, come back to comforting extra-large cinema beds with ecological, cloud-like sheets, and uniquely designed bathrooms.

We wanted to know what makes Unplugged tick, and how they manage the challenges of balancing technology with the human touch. Samme Hilbers is one of the young team at Unplugged and knows the city well. We caught up with her for a few questions.

“I wanted to work in the hospitality industry because I like to look after people and to give them an experience they won’t forget. I think that hospitality is really about giving the best of yourself to your guests, and I am really grateful that I can apply this at hotel Unplugged.” Technology is an important part of the Unplugged ethos, but we wondered if that presents challenges. “At Unplugged we really have made things easier by using technology in the hotel. So for example, guests can check-in and check-out on their own. This saves them time so they can spend more time on their trip and exploring the city. In my role here I think that is the main challenge for me, to offer a balance of a good hospitality service and a high-tech experience.” Samme has put the time in, building her hospitality skills. “I previously spent six months in Spain for my first internship, working in a more traditional hospitality service. I learned a lot and saw a lot of difference in how things were done there. But in my opinion, the social contact means a lot and is the most important part of hospitality. It’s essential”.

Unplugged really appeals to travellers who want to get out there and get going, to explore for themselves. It’s known for its tech solutions, such as the in-room iPads to control the technology and facilities in the guest rooms. “Most people today consider it important that everything is fast. The more time it takes, the more bored they get.” With automated check-in and check-out as standard, this forward thinking boutique hotel has that covered. Samme celebrates the value of human interaction though: “At Unplugged the guests expect that all actions will be smooth, but they also love to have some personal, human attention, especially for tips about hotspots around the city.” Who better to ask about the city than young and switched on natives like Samme? Here’s Samme’s pick of the best things to see and do in Rotterdam this summer.

1) You simply have to rent a Go scooter and drive around the city. It’s easy to do and so much fun! Maybe the best way to see Rotterdam in the sun?

2) Try different dishes from all over the world at the Markthal, walk between the different markets and admire the amazing artwork in the building. Artist Arno Coenen created the largest work of art in the Netherlands, called ”the Horn of Plenty”. With its 11,000 m2 surface and bright colours, it is not surprising that it is also called the Sistine Chapel of Rotterdam.

3) Still hungry? You can’t beat a picnic with friends in Green Park. Summer days are made for this!

4) Burn off some of those calories with some shopping. Nieuwe Binnenweg is one of my favourite streets. Quaint and full of amazing little shops.

5) Time to ditch the scooter… I love drinking cocktails at The Ballroom. It’s on one of Rotterdam’s cutest streets, Witte de withstraat, so be sure to send some time checking out the neighbourhood.

So what are you waiting for? Book your stay at Unplugged and discover this amazing modern city, full of diversity, culture and great food. Tell Samme we sent you.