For the first time ever, I think I found a Moxy property that I’d like to go out of my way to stay at…
In this post:
The basics of Marriott’s Moxy brand
First for some context, Moxy is one of Marriott’s 30+ hotel brands. Moxy is a limited service brand, but it’s intended to be fun and hip, and targets younger travelers.
On the plus side, Moxy properties typically have a pretty decent bar and social space setup. Unfortunately I don’t have the same enthusiasm for the rooms. While I don’t mind the minimalist decor, my issue is that the rooms are usually tiny and don’t have desks, so I don’t find them to be very functional.
I’ve stayed at a few Moxy properties over the years, and have had pleasant experiences. It’s one of my preferred Marriott limited service brands, but that’s not saying a whole lot. I’ll gladly stay at Moxy properties if the location works for what I need, but I don’t ever seek these hotels out. Well, at least until now…
The Moxy Tromsø looks really cool!
Marriott has just announced the opening of the Moxy Tromsø, in Norway. Tromsø is a place that has been on my radar for quite some time. It’s the largest city in northern Norway, and it’s located in the Arctic Circle. It’s a popular destination year-round, whether you want to come for the Northern Lights, the beautiful winter scenery, or the nearly endless daylight in summer.
I’m not here to write some puff piece and pretend that Moxy is this amazing hotel brand and you’re going to be totally hip and cool if you stay here, but my gosh, this hotel has incredible views. This 208-room hotel is now the northernmost property in Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio. 
On the top floor of the hotel (the 11th floor) is Sky Bar Moxy, which is the social hub of the hotel. This not only has the check-in desk, but also a bar and restaurant area, foosball table, and more. This offers unobstructed views of the city and fjord, which is the main selling point.
Here’s how some of the hotel’s design elements are described:
Boasting undisturbed views of the fjord and mountains beyond, Danish designers Mette Fredskild Studio drew inspiration from the locale, with a palette of local traditional folk dress featuring indigo, cobalt, and city blue, to warmer colours, including purples, brown and deep red. Murals in public spaces, created by local artists Alice Kvalvik and Jonathan Broca are a playful take on Tromsø life and the environment beyond.
For what it’s worth, rates at the hotel are super reasonable, in many cases under $100 per night during peak periods.
Bottom line
The Moxy Tromsø has just opened in Norway, and is now Marriott Bonvoy’s northernmost hotel. I’ve long wanted to visit Tromsø, so I look forward to having this Marriott option available. I’m not expecting some amazing soft product at this property, but the views are enough to sell me on it!
Anyone else find the Moxy Tromsø to be pretty cool?
I've been meaning to visit Tromso. I love the Arctic and now I have more of a reason to visitthe city. I stayed at the Moxy in Tokyo recently and loved the good vibes and the amenities. This place looks great!
moxy Oslo X is also located in middle of nowhere, not sure what's going on.
I’m staying there in September! Looking forward to it
This is as bad as the Hilton in Faroe Islands.
Eyesore, inconvenient location, geared towards people in town for work, and unfortunate American tourists who dont know any better but to stay in a chain hotel.
And of course, bloggers and their followers
I loved the Hilton Garden Inn in the Faroe Islands. Beautiful property with beautiful views. Very close to both the city bus stop into town and the long distance bus stop to other areas in the Faroes. Do you work for some local hotel there, Ann, such that you have such sour grapes for the Hilton? I'm certain those hotels have been impacted by such superior competition.
ahh Moxy :( ... my less favorite brand in Marriott Bonvoy.... I am so happy that there is a Marriott Bonvoy hotel in Tromso but and the same time so sad that it is Moxy :(
Tromso? Hard pass because there is no single Hilton property there where I could leverage my recently acquired LIFETIME DIAMOND status
Fake DCS is having a good run.
I've been in Tromsø many times and I plan to come back. While I prefer chain hotels (and there aren't many in Tromsø), the location of Moxy is pretty bad so I will think twice about staying there. On the other hand, bus service in Tromsø is pretty good and buses from the terminal across the street I frequent. I might stay there in summer but definitely not in winter.
There are multiple Choice hotels in Tromso, a Radisson, and then Scandic and Thon, when it comes to chain hotels that I know there.
I go for the Choice/Strawberry properties.
I avoid Moxy hotels in Scandinavia, and dislike them as being equal to or worse than even the worst Comfort hotels in Scandinavia.
Eleven floors in Tromso? Argh Marriott should go to the international penal court...
Do visit Tromso, but stay on a waterfront in the city, with lovely views.
Moxy location is by the airport and near busy shopping area. Photos are misleading.
I stayed in Moxy Bergen, because I could use points, but I didn't like it. Lack of desk/table, chair and kettle was an issue for me. And working from bar was inconvenient. I had to ask staff to turn down the music. Can't imagine having conference...
Do visit Tromso, but stay on a waterfront in the city, with lovely views.
Moxy location is by the airport and near busy shopping area. Photos are misleading.
I stayed in Moxy Bergen, because I could use points, but I didn't like it. Lack of desk/table, chair and kettle was an issue for me. And working from bar was inconvenient. I had to ask staff to turn down the music. Can't imagine having conference call from there. I'm definitely not staying in another Moxy, unless it's one night only by the airport. Lack of kettle would still annoy me.
As mentioned, this is not a city center hotel, but in the middle of nowhere but closer to the airport. Not unlike Moxy Oslo X, which is in a field between city and airport. I would rather stay at Clarion Edge in town if you are visiting the city.
I’m supposed to do a large family (summer) trip to Bergen and was looking for a side trip or two while I’m over there for my wife and me. If anyone has any insights on Tromsø and what all there is to do there, let me know. My wife and I are pretty outdoorsy and enjoy hiking. I had never really heard of this spot though.
Tromso is quite far from Bergen, i.e. you probably want to fly.
Things to do should be similar to Bergen outdoor wise.
Also consider Trondheim or Faroe Island.
Thanks! Yes I was assuming I’d fly up. That’s why I was wondering if it was worth it or not. Faroe is another good idea. Thanks.
Looks dull and out of place.
Flat earth people would not consider this as Northernmost Hotel but Centermost Hotel.
Bødo Glimt
Really not trying to be a downer, but it looks like a major eyesore in an otherwise pristine landscape... It bums me out when local governments give approval for this uniquely tall (and ugly) projects. Reminds me of the Ritz Carlton in Turks & Caicos...
Very excited to visit Tromsø and Alta this coming winter, but staying at local lodges (of which there are no shortage of new, amazing options!).
Have to agree -- most of the restaurants and activities are on the other side of the island, and this multi-story hotel stands out in a not good way. There are some great options in the city center. And Tromso is a fantastic destination for a few days, especially during their Polar Nights season.
TBH, in real it does not look that much out of place, because the immiate surrounds are nowhere near as pristine as the official pictures might suggest as the hotel is right next to the airport and the busiest commercial center of the city with asap isted traffic. AV geeks would love it though, being able to look straight at the runway.
Sounds like a great Northern Lights viewing area!
Uh, maybe if the hotel turns out literally all its lights at night.
The view will be very nice (looking straight over at my childhood home). The big issue is the location. Not that Tromsø is very big, but this hotel is in the middle of nowhere if you want to see some sights, you would be better of with a room in one of the many hotels in the city center.