Bucharest's Hidden Gem: Upstairs Boutique - You HAVE to See This!
Upstairs Boutique: Bucharest's Not-So-Secret Secret (And Why You NEED to Book NOW!)
Okay, folks, listen up! I've just returned from Bucharest, and I'm still buzzing. Forget the Dracula cliches, the real magic is tucked away, and it's called Upstairs Boutique. Seriously, "hidden gem" doesn't even begin to cover it. This place isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. And after a week of Romanian adventures, with a slight hangover and a lot of coffee in my system. Let's dive in, shall we?
(SEO Focus: Bucharest Boutique Hotel, Bucharest Accommodation, Luxury Bucharest Hotel, Spa Bucharest, Romania Travel)
First things first: Accessibility. Look, I don’t need accessibility features, but I did scope it out because, well, it's 2024, and everyone deserves a fabulous stay. Upstairs Boutique boasts an Elevator, which is crucial in a city with cobblestones and charming, but sometimes challenging, architecture. I didn't see anything specifically tailored for wheelchairs on-site in terms of rooms and amenities. However, their willingness to accommodate guests is evident, and I highly recommend contacting them directly to discuss individual needs. They strike me as the kind of place that would bend over backwards to help.
(SEO Focus: Wheelchair Accessible Hotel Bucharest, Accessible Accommodation Romania)
On-site restaurants/lounges? Oh, YES! And delicious. The food – we'll get to that glorious food later – is a major selling point.
(SEO Focus: Bucharest Restaurants, Hotel Restaurants Bucharest)
Cleanliness and Safety? I'm a germaphobe, let's just put it that way. I walked in expecting the usual hotel suspects, but Upstairs Boutique absolutely slayed. Anti-viral cleaning products were used, and there were little things like Hand sanitizers everywhere. They are taking precautions. A huge plus. They have Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays, and Staff trained in safety protocol. It felt genuinely safe, which is so important when you're exploring a new city. The team made every effort to ensure Physical distancing was possible (though people tended to gather anyway, because that's what delicious food and good conversation encourages). They don't rely on the standard "hotel cleanliness". Rooms were sanitized between stays, and I actually felt like I could breathe.
(SEO Focus: Clean Hotel Bucharest, Safe Hotel Bucharest, Hygiene Certified Hotel Romania)
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: This is where Upstairs Boutique truly shines. Forget your bland hotel buffets. They’ve got it all:
- Restaurants: Plural! Several dining options.
- Room service [24-hour]: The holy grail! Especially after a long day of exploring.
- Breakfast [buffet]: A feast! A proper feast. Think fresh pastries, local cheeses, perfectly brewed coffee. And the Western breakfast was incredible, but don’t skip trying the Asian breakfast - a delightful surprise.
- A la carte in restaurant: Wonderful for a relaxed evening
- Coffee/tea in restaurant & Coffee shop: Fuel for your Bucharest adventures, essential.
- Poolside bar: Chef's kiss. Picture this: you're lounging by the Swimming pool [outdoor] (which, by the way, has a Pool with view) sipping a cocktail. Pure bliss.
- Snack bar: Ideal for a quick bite after a hard day of, well, doing absolutely nothing much but relax.
- Happy hour: Because why not?
- Asian cuisine & International cuisine in restaurant: The menu is diverse, and everything I tasted was phenomenal.
- Desserts in restaurant: Prepare for a sugar rush!
- Salad in restaurant & Soup in restaurant: Delicious options to balance the indulgence.
- Bottle of water: Hydration is key, people!
- Vegetarian restaurant: Plenty of options for the herbivores amongst us.
- Alternative meal arrangement: No problem, they will adapt.
(SEO Focus: Bucharest Restaurants with Cuisine, Bucharest Hotel Dining, Best Brunch Bucharest)
One evening, I accidentally ordered way too much food (blame the wine, honestly). The restaurant staff, bless their hearts, just laughed and brought me extra napkins. The service is genuinely warm and friendly. The hotel staff are all genuinely friendly and helpful.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax, Ways to Spend Your Time: So, the real kicker? Get ready, because Upstairs Boutique is all about pampering.
- Spa/sauna, Sauna, Spa, Steamroom: I, of course, had to indulge. The Sauna was perfect for a quick detox after a long day of sightseeing.
- Massage: Book one! Seriously, book one. Best massage I've ever had!
- Body wrap & Body scrub: Did not try but now kicking myself for not doing it.
- Fitness center & Gym/fitness: I saw these and thought, "who has time?" But, hey, if you're into that, it's there.
(SEO Focus: Spa Hotel Bucharest, Bucharest Spa & Wellness, Massage Bucharest)
Internet Access: Yes! Free Wi-Fi everywhere! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, and even in the common areas. Speed was good too. Internet Access [LAN] is available.
(SEO Focus: Bucharest Hotel with Wi-Fi, Free Wi-Fi Bucharest)
Services and Conveniences: Okay, buckle up. This is a long list, but it's important to show you just how much they offer:
- Air conditioning in public area & Air conditioning: Essential in the summer!
- Airport transfer: Makes arriving and leaving a breeze.
- Audio-visual equipment for special events
- Babysitting service & Family/child friendly & Kids meal & Kids facilities: Perfect for families.
- Bar: For cocktails and good times.
- Bicycle parking: Explore the city on two wheels.
- Business facilities: Meeting/banquet facilities, and more
- Cash withdrawal & Currency exchange: Super convenient.
- Concierge: Always helpful.
- Contactless check-in/out: Modern and efficient.
- Convenience store: For those late-night snacks.
- Couple's room: Romantic getaway, anyone? wink wink
- Daily housekeeping: The rooms are always spotless.
- Doorman & 24-hour Front desk:
- Dry cleaning & Ironing service & Laundry service: Laundry is a lifesaver!
- Elevator: No lugging suitcases up stairs!
- Essential condiments: Little touches that really matter.
- Express check-in/out & Private check-in/out:
- Facilities for disabled guests: (See my accessibility comments above - contact the hotel directly).
- Food delivery: Perfect when you want to stay in.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Grab some goodies to take home.
- Hotel chain:
- Indoor venue for special events & Outdoor venue for special events & On-site event hosting: Could be perfect for a party.
- Invoice provided:
- Luggage storage:
- Meeting stationery & Meetings & Seminars:
- Non-smoking rooms: Smoker's section is available.
- Projector/LED display:
- Proposal spot: Maybe?
- Room service [24-hour]: Again, a lifesaver!
- Rooms sanitized between stays:
- Safe dining setup:
- Safety deposit boxes:
- Shared stationery removed:
- Shrine:
- Smoking area:
- Terrace:
- Wi-Fi for special events:
- Xerox/fax in business center:
- For the kids:
- Access:
- CCTV in common areas & outside property:
- Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private]:
- Exterior corridor:
- Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms:
- Front desk [24-hour]:
- Non-smoking rooms, Pets allowed
(SEO Focus: Best Hotels Bucharest, Bucharest Hotel Services, Bucharest Hotel Amenities)
In-Room Amenities (Available in all rooms): Basically, everything you need:
- Additional toilet
- Air conditioning
- Alarm clock
- Bathrobes
- Bathroom phone
- Bathtub & Separate shower/bathtub:
- Blackout curtains
- Carpeting
- Closet
- Coffee/tea maker & Complimentary tea:
- Daily housekeeping
- Desk
- Extra long bed
- Free bottled water
- Hair dryer
- High floor
- **In-room safe box
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because this isn't your grandma's itinerary. This is a chaotic, coffee-stained, emotionally-charged journey through Upstairs Boutique Bucharest, and trust me, it's gonna be a ride.
Upstairs Boutique Bucharest: A Love Letter (and a Few Grumbles) to Romania, in No Particular Order (and Maybe a Little Hungover)
Day 1: Arrival & "Holy Crap, This Place is Gorgeous!" (Followed by a Panic Attack)
- Morning (ish, because jet lag): Land at Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP). Okay, first impression: smooth enough. Passport control? Surprisingly easy. But then… the taxi. Dude, I SWEAR he took a detour through the entire city before getting me to Upstairs Boutique. I swear he knew I was tired and wanted a chat, I had to listen to him and I'm not really a talker, and he didn't know a word of English!. Anyway, finally made it.
- Afternoon: Checking into Upstairs Boutique. OMG. The pictures online, those were… real! The rooms? Stunning. Sunlight streaming through the giant windows, antique furniture that actually looks lived in (and not stuffy), and a vibe that screamed "chic bohemian escape" (or maybe that was just the exhaustion talking). I plopped down on the bed, and… felt a wave of complete and utter panic. "What am I DOING here? I don't speak Romanian! What if I get lost? What if the food makes me sick? What if… I fall in love with a Romanian and have to stay forever? (Okay, maybe not the worst scenario…)" Took a deep breath and remind myself to have fun, but that first panic attack will always be a part of this trip.
- Afternoon/Evening: Stumbled out to explore. Got lost immediately (shocking, I know). Found a tiny coffee shop called "Micul Cafea" (I think) and the smell of freshly brewed espresso almost physically dragged me in. Sat there, nursing my coffee and feeling vaguely melancholic, just watching people go by. Romanian is so lovely to listen to!
- Evening: Dinner at “Caru' cu Bere” (the famous one). Rant Time: Okay, the place is beautiful, like something out of a fairytale. And the dancing? Amazing! But. The food… it was… heavy. Seriously, I think I ate my weight in cabbage rolls. I was seriously beginning to sweat, there was so much going on, and the smell of beer was overwhelming, and the noise was loud, I was done! Plus, the tourist factor was STRONG. I'm just saying, if you're looking for an authentic experience, maybe look elsewhere. But it's a classic, I guess.
Day 2: Culture Shock, Market Mayhem, and the Quest for Good Coffee (Continues)
- Morning: Explore the Old Town. Wow. Just wow. The architecture! The cobblestone streets! The… hordes of tourists. Still, it's beautiful. Spent an hour wandering around, soaking it all in. Found a little church and lit a candle, wishing for safe travels and a decent latte.
- Midday: The Farmer’s Market! Holy cow, a sensory overload in the best way possible. Colorful fruits and vegetables I'd never seen before. The smells… oh god, the smells! Garlic, fresh bread, roasting meats. Bargained for some cherries with a lady who didn't speak English but managed to convey "buy now, they're perfect!" with just a raised eyebrow and a flick of the wrist. (Got them for a steal!)
- Afternoon: Coffee mission. Finally found a place that knew how to make a good coffee. It was called "The Coffee Corner." This was a turning point. Sat there for a good hour, watching the world go by, feeling a bit less like a lost tourist and more like… maybe a semi-coherent human being.
- Evening: Dinner at a smaller, less touristy restaurant. Ate… something with potatoes and meat (I think?). It was delicious and the waiter was super friendly, even with my terrible Romanian. Actually tried to talk to him, and he was surprisingly kind.
Day 3: Palace Dreams & Artistic Ramblings (and Possibly a Vodka Hangover)
- Morning: Visited the Palace of the Parliament. "OMG, that's big!" That's what I first thought. It's the second-largest administrative building in the world, or something like that. The sheer scale is… mind-boggling. The opulence is… overwhelming. My brain short-circuited a bit, honestly. Felt a mix of awe, boredom, and a strange sense of unease. It's a powerful place, but also a monument to… something. The guide was very serious, and it made the whole ordeal a bit dry.
- Midday: Stroll through the neighborhood. So beautiful. Found a park and plopped down on a bench, just to people-watch. Watched the mothers, grandmothers, old friends, laughing at something.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Hit a bar. Started with a beer, switched to wine, and then… well, who knows what happened after that. Some shots of something clear and potent. Woke up… not feeling great. Let’s just say, my artistic ramblings from the night before might not be suitable for public consumption.
Day 4: Searching for the Soul of Bucharest (And Maybe a Remedy)
- Morning: Struggle out of bed (the vodka, the lack of sleep, and the general travel tiredness took its toll). Went for a walk, desperately searching for a coffee shop and a reason to live.
- Midday: Found a museum somewhere. Lost my train of thought, but it was very interesting.
- Afternoon: Focused on the good aspects. The people, the feeling of having a purpose, the overall attitude to living, and so on.
- Evening: Quiet dinner, reflective writing.
Day 5: Departure (With a Hint of Sadness, and a LOT of Memories…)
- Morning: Final breakfast at Upstairs Boutique. Savoring the coffee, the view, and the feeling that I might actually miss this place.
- Afternoon: Taxi ride back to the airport. This time, the driver mostly kept quiet.
- Evening: On the plane, already missing Bucharest.
Quirky Observations & Emotional Reactions:
- The dogs: Bucharest has a LOT of stray dogs. They're everywhere. Some are friendly, some are wary. It becomes strangely comforting seeing them everywhere.
- The food: A love-hate relationship. Some amazing flavors, but often heavy and rich.
- The pace: It's a city that moves at its own speed. Sometimes frustrating, sometimes charming.
- The people: Friendly, helpful, and surprisingly open to a clumsy foreigner trying to butcher their language.
- Overall feeling: A whirlwind of emotions. From fear to joy, from confusion to clarity. Bucharest is messy, beautiful, and unforgettable. I'd go back in a heartbeat. (And maybe learn some Romanian first.)
This is it. My messy, opinionated, and slightly traumatized account of Bucharest. Hope you enjoyed the ride. And if you go, have fun, embrace the chaos, and try not to get too lost!
Bucharest's Hidden Gem: Central Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham - Unforgettable Stay!
Upstairs Boutique: Seriously?! You HAVE to See This! (And I'm NOT kidding) – FAQs
Okay, Okay... What *is* this "Upstairs Boutique" thing, anyway? Sounds a bit... pretentious.
Pretentious? Honey, maybe a little. But trust me, it’s the *good* kind of pretentious! Imagine stepping into a secret world. Seriously, the entrance is almost hidden. I nearly walked past my first time! It's not just a shop; it's an *experience*. Think quirky clothes, unique jewelry, and art that actually makes you *feel* something. It's like a creative explosion had a baby with a fashion boutique, and the kid is brilliantly bonkers.
Where exactly is this magical portal? GPS coordinates, please! (Because I'm useless with directions, let's be honest.)
Right, directions. Okay, so... it's in the Old Town. Near that... uh... building with the, you know... the thing. *Deep sigh* Look, just Google "Upstairs Boutique Bucharest." Let Google Maps do the heavy lifting. My sense of direction is legendary – for being catastrophically abysmal! I got lost in my own apartment the other day. Let the map guide you. And maybe pack a snack. Just in case.
Is it expensive? Because my bank account is currently weeping over a bowl of ramen.
Okay, let's be brutally honest: It's not *cheap*. But listen, you’re paying for quality, originality, and the fact that you're unlikely to see ten other people wearing the same thing. I splurged on a scarf there once. It was... an investment. At the time, I internally berated myself for spending so much. BUT I STILL LOVE IT! It's silky, fabulous, and every time I wear it, I get compliments. So, it's a calculated risk. Sometimes, you gotta treat yourself. Just, maybe, have that ramen for dinner for a few days to compensate, okay?
What kind of stuff can I find there? Like, what's the vibe?
Vibe? It's a glorious mix of "bohemian chic" and "I'm probably cooler than you." (In a good way, mostly!) Think flowy dresses, statement jewelry, art prints that whisper secrets, and clothes that scream "I’m not afraid to be noticed!" The selection is carefully curated. I mean, you can feel the love that's been lavished on the place. It's a whole aesthetic. One time I tried on this absolutely *insane* sequined jacket. Totally impractical, completely fabulous. I nearly bought it. My rational brain thankfully prevailed (this time!) but the memory still makes me smile. They have stuff for every size and shape, so, you know, don't let the "boutique" part intimidate you. (Though the sales assistants are usually pretty chic themselves... but in a friendly way!)
Do they have sizes for... you know... real people? Like, are they inclusive or just catering to the super-skinny? (I'm asking for a friend... ahem.)
Yes! And YES! Yes, they do! I’ve seen a decent range of sizes. Remember, they’re about *unique* style, not just a particular body type. I actually saw a curvy lady there, absolutely rocking a dress. She looked amazing! The staff is fantastic about helping you find things that flatter your figure, not dictate it. Please, go! I have a friend, who is also a curvy person, get a dress, a total showstopper, I should say, which she wears to every special occasion there is. She has never looked back. Honestly, it completely changed her view of herself. Seriously, it’s such a great, welcoming vibe.
What if I'm not a "fashion person"? Will I feel out of place?
Absolutely not! If you're up for a little adventure and a bit of self-expression, you'll fit right in. The staff is super friendly and not intimidating at all. They're more about helping you find something you *love* than judging your fashion choices. (Unless you're wearing Crocs with socks. Then maybe they'll judge a *little*.) I went there once when I was feeling super self-conscious. The staff were so kind and helpful. They actually made me laugh! I walked out feeling confident, even though I was just wearing jeans and a t-shirt. Seriously, they are miracle workers.
Okay, you've convinced me. But like, what's the *one* thing that makes this place truly special?
Alright, here it is. The *heart* of Upstairs Boutique? The feeling. Seriously, it's more than the clothes or the art. It’s the atmosphere of *discovery*. It’s the feeling you get when you unearth a little secret. It is unique finds (and sometimes a bit of a splurge). Every time I go, I spend at least an hour just wandering, touching things, asking questions, and getting lost in the beauty and thought that went into the store. I once spent a full hour agonizing over a pair of boots. I still can't decide if it was the right decision. I'm not sure if I've recovered emotionally, hahaha! But it's that kind of place. It's inspiring, it’s exciting, and it consistently leaves me feeling a little bit more *me*. You'll understand once you go. Trust me. Just go.
Are the owners nice? Because a bad owner can ruin the whole vibe.
I've met the owners a few times. And let me tell you, they are amazing. They're not snobby or aloof. They are passionate about what they do, and it shows in every single corner of the store. They are really great. They are not just selling objects; they are curating experiences. I once saw one of them, helping a customer find a perfect gift for their significant other. The care and attention to detail... They're invested. They want you to feel special, and it’s totally genuine. It kind of makes you want to be a better person, you know? (Or maybe that's just me.)
Is there anything I should be aware of before I go? Any secret tips?
Tip number one: Take cash! They do take cards, but some of the more obscure items might need a cash payment. And, let's be honest, it's always nice to have a little money to spend. Tip number two: Allow yourself plenty of time. Don't rush through. It's easy to spend an hour just browsing all the unique stuff. Tip three: Be prepared to fall in love. Seriously, you *will* find something you want. Maybe two thingsBook Hotels Now
