The Sweet Apartments: Self-catering in Oslo's poshest area

A converted 1916 women's clinic in one of Oslo's wealthiest neighborhoods, now split into serviced apartments with high ceilings and big windows. The building is architecturally protected, which means the bones are beautiful. Inside, the Scandi-minimal furnishings are clean and modern. The beds, reportedly Engelsson brand, are excellent.

This is not a hotel. There's no front desk, no concierge, no room service, no daily housekeeping. Everything runs through the VANDER app, your phone is your room key. Download it before you arrive. 

The entry-level studios are small at around 16 to 19 square metres. Bigger suites exist, but the price jumps. Every unit has a kitchenette or full kitchen, which helps if you're on a limited budget. There's a Kiwi grocery store nearby. 

The Frogner/Homansbyen location is leafy, quiet, and very residential. Embassy buildings and old apartment blocks. The #19 tram is steps away and gets you to the city center in minutes. The Royal Palace park is a ten-minute walk.

One thing to watch: a 5,000 NOK damage deposit gets charged to your card seven days before arrival. That's roughly $495 tied up until about a week after checkout.