Alex Hotel

Alex Hotel, Yerevan, gave us one of our worst hotel stays. The receptionist was disrespectful and mocked us when we arrived late, instead of welcoming us or asking what had happened. She said our fully paid room had been overbooked and they had the right to give it to the next guest, while blaming us for the cancellation and transfer. The room had no comforter, the water heater didn't work, and the fridge was switched off. When we asked for breakfast at 8 a.m., they refused because it was supposedly too early. There was no complimentary bottled water, coffee, or tea either. We were told to drink from the faucet. The service and facilities were poor, and I wouldn't recommend this hotel.

During our four-day business trip in October, the heating was left off despite the cold weather. When we asked, they gave us extra blankets instead of fixing it, and only switched the heating on after we'd spent three uncomfortable nights. The staff weren't welcoming, and someone entered our room without permission while we were out. That was a serious breach of privacy and completely unprofessional. We'd booked in advance but were put in the old building at the back of the yard. The property has two buildings, with a slightly more modern one at the front; the room we got lacked comfort and basic amenities. To me, the place felt more like an inn than a proper hotel. I wouldn't recommend it, especially for business travelers needing warmth, comfort, and professional service. There are better options nearby.

The restaurant is the real gem here. The prices are almost hard to believe, the design is cozy, and Mrs Greta makes the best food I've had in Armenia, even better than homemade. Big thanks to the talented Naira, Greta, Rahul, and everyone working there. I'll definitely return on my next visit. The owners, workers, and cooks made us feel like family, and the place is great value for money. The location is only a few minutes from the city center, or around a 15-20 minute walk. Our room was clean and had a decent view.

The budget rooms are in an old, neglected building that isn't shown in the booking photos, which feature the newer building. Once you arrive, they push you to pay more for an upgrade or cancel the booking and pay them directly. The rooms are dirty and freezing, with almost no heating. Old wooden windows let in more cold air, and they won't provide extra heating devices even if you ask. You have to request slippers and bottled water at reception, as neither is provided in the budget rooms. The hotel is far from the city center, which makes getting around inconvenient. The whole place felt uncomfortable and poorly maintained. Save yourself the trouble and avoid it unless you're prepared to pay extra for an upgrade.