Malak Regency Hotel

Fatima at reception was especially kind, and everyone around the hotel was friendly and polite. We loved the breakfast buffet, with lots to choose from, and dinner at the orient restaurant on the ground floor was a highlight. The food was fresh, delicious, and had a good range. The lounges, rooms, and amenities felt first class. Everything was clean and peaceful, with purified water, hamams, saunas, and a lovely indoor pool. Prices seemed reasonable for a five-star hotel in a thermal spa resort area, especially with the airport only five minutes away. We can hardly put the experience into words. 10/10, 100/100.

The hotel is in a safe area by a river, with pleasant walking trails. When the university is in session, you’ll see plenty of students along the way. There’s a small shopping center about 15 minutes away, and the hotel sits between two major universities. Parking is free, indoors and outdoors, with lots of spaces. We had a large triple room in good condition, comfortable beds, and a decent sized bathroom. The shower pressure was solid, there were several hooks, and a handheld water sprayer by the toilet. There were a few little extras, like shoe polish and a sewing kit, though the room safe didn’t work because it had no battery. The lobby is spacious and usually quiet. Reception was friendly, thanks Edin! Breakfast had the usual European vegetarian and non-vegetarian options at several stations, but nothing especially memorable. It’s a lovely newer hotel and we had a great stay. I’d give it 4.5 stars if I could.

The staff were so warm and welcoming that we still miss their smiles after returning to the States. We haven’t had that kind of emotional connection at any of the many hotels we’ve stayed in on trips abroad. Everyone was exceptionally polite and friendly. Breakfast is a buffet with just about anything you could imagine for brunch. They serve four kinds of honey, and the vegetables and produce come from the hotel’s own farms. The breakfast staff were lovely too. The hotel has its own farms, where families can picnic in summer, or book a stay at the resort. Rooms were exceptionally clean and comfortable, and service was just as good. It’s a seven-minute walk from Llidza tram station, with trams every few minutes to Baščaršija, old Sarajevo. Two things could be improved. There’s no valet to take bags from the car or taxi, so you have to carry them to reception yourself. Also, guests can’t adjust the room thermostat. Reception controls it, and you have to call to ask for a temperature change. It was set at 22.70 C, which felt too warm for guests coming from Europe or the USA. It’s a small hassle management should address. I’d highly recommend this peaceful, friendly place.

The hotel’s beautiful, with a stunning view, and Arab travelers may appreciate the bidet shower, or shattaf, in the bathrooms. My experience at reception was disappointing because of the poor hospitality and treatment. Mohammed was the exception, incredibly professional and polite, and a great example of the staff.