I knew that I would be staying the night in the heart of Tel Aviv not far from the Israel museum.

This is the city’s financial centre and the busiest part of the Rothschild Boulevard. It’s right in the thick of the famous “White City” and close to the upmarket shopping area of Gan Hahashmal.

So, when I pulled up to number 71, I guess I was expecting a large sign stating this hotel’s name. What I saw was the Cantina restaurant whose bright yellow canopy stood out against the whitewashed backdrop of the Bauhaus architecture.

The hotel sign was far more discreet and functional — somewhat like the building — and to find the way in I had to turn into a side street.

And this too, was confusing because it was a pair of glass doors that opened to a hallway and a set of lifts.
It was the aroma of freshly made coffee that alerted me to the sitting room on my left.

So, I went in and was greeted by a guy on a sofa with a laptop. He beckoned, I sat on a sofa and we chatted.
This was the check-in and I don’t think it could have been more casual or friendly.

I was offered a cup of nespresso coffee and told I could spend some chill time in what felt like someone’s home.

There were bookshelves laden with literature, a large TV and several types of refreshment. But I was ready to settle into my bedroom.

This boutique hotel, a former private residence-cum-doctor’s clinic, is small; There are just 25 rooms arranged over five floors.

The theme throughout is wood floors, white walls, a sense of clean lines and minimalism. That may sound bland but actually the artworks and stylish streamlined furniture made it all work well.

All mod cons were in place, including free wi fi and a 24-hour concierge. I would have like to have tested that, but it was too easy to sleep for eight hours in a surprisingly quiet room.

As it turned out, the Cantina restaurant serves the hotel for breakfast. I found this to be a great vantage point for people watching — young soldiers, business men, roller-blading kids — as they made their way along this very wide, leafy boulevard.

Rates: From $220
www.the-rothschild.com