This is a three star hotel at best trying very hard to be more than what it is. The reception and staff were wonderful and they get five stars, but the amenities and clear lack of maintenance is really letting this hotel down. The rooms are extremely spacious but let down by the tiny bathroom and cracks in the ceilings. The roofs are high which makes the extraordinary low furnishings - from the bed to the lounge - stand out. I happened to venture to the 19th floor looking for the unmarked fitness center and the place had remnants of a hair salon, with more low chairs stored along with shisha instruments. The pool area was clearly unmaintained and it felt eerie and as though I was looking at what could have been if it was properly cared for. The place feels stuck in the 70s. The fitness centre was found on the 3rd floor and most of the equipment was broken or not working. Even some of the dumbbells were not matched! The bench was torn. Again, caught in memories of what once was. The breakfast buffet was good, though the coffee is instant and I’d forgotten how bad instant coffee was until I was sadly reminded. I wouldn’t recommend this place although it was okay - it really needs some love...
Read moreI booked this hotel mainly on location basis, as I wanted something relatively near the airport since I was arriving at 1 am and also close to my next morning meeting. ||||I contacted the hotel via Booking also to arrange for a transfer from the Airport to the Hotel, and they first of all responded to my email request and arranged for a driver to come and pick me up which it was really helpfull. ||||Room was spacious, even had a sit in area (see the pictures). Nice size bathroom also, all relatively clean. I did not give a perfect score on the cleanliness of the room only because the bed mattress and pillows had a smell that I had encountered in the past when staying in ex Soviet hotels.||||Breakfast was good. It had a bit of everything including pancakes and french toast. Also a chef to prepare eggs or omelletes as one wanted. Just did not like the ambience of the resturant where the breakfast was served. It reminded me again Soviet era hotels behind the iron curtain||||The hotel suited my location requirements, and I only stayed there for a sleep and breakfast, but I do not think that there are many attractions near in case one stays...
Read moreI would not call this a 4-star hotel by international standards, but it suited me, as I wanted to be in Hawally. I had a large quiet room with large comfortable bed, and adequate curtains to keep out the heat and light. Basic cleanliness was good (bed, toilet, wash basin) but odd details let it down - grime on the aircon switch, and in the grooves where the shower doors slide. Shower doors do not close fully, but this need not be a problem, as it easy to keep the spray away from the open edge. There is a kettle provided, and a fridge (empty), so you need your own tea/coffee equipment. There is a supermarket nearby for milk etc. The breakfast buffet is good as long as you don't expect 4-star standards. Omelettes are cooked fresh on demand. The coffee machine was broken, so only instant coffee (or tea) for breakfast. The restaurant is at the top of the building, with good views over the city. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The aircon was noisy, but I was able to sleep without it on. The airport pick-up and drop-off service worked perfectly. As an older single lady, I felt safe in the hotel, and in the...
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