Marco Polo

We stayed for three nights, and for 40 lari a night for a double room, it was good value. The place is central, clean and air conditioned. The owner doesn’t speak English, but she really tries to communicate and called her daughter to explain a few things. I took off a star because our first room was so dingy that even with the lights on it was hard to see. We changed rooms when we extended our stay, since the first one had already been booked, and the second room was much better. The cleaning lady is sweet and very helpful, though she doesn’t speak English. She reminded me of a more competent Manuel from Fawlty Towers. The road is quite noisy, with guys thrashing around in their classic Mercedes like they’re late to puberty.

The staff gave me a warm welcome, and I found the hotel very comfortable. My taxi driver, who was really helpful, brought me inside and introduced me to the owner. The hotel arranged the airport pick-up by taxi for 25 lari, which I’d recommend, as it’s up an archway and stairs on the second floor. I didn’t get the room shown in the photo with French windows and a balcony. Instead, mine just had a small window in the ceiling. There are two kitchens: breakfast is served in the one on the ground floor, while I used the first-floor kitchen to make my own breakfast.

Our five-night stay was good, and the friendly staff made it a comfortable place even for more than a couple of nights. Daredjana, the housekeeper, was helpful and nice, and speaks basic Russian; her granddaughter also speaks English. At first we had a room with a private bathroom outside it, but when we asked for a room with a bathroom inside, the owners arranged another room for us. The rooms and toilets were very clean, and towels were provided. The older woman was so friendly she came to the market with us and pointed out the best churchkhelas. We ordered breakfast after friends said it was a must. It was tasty and simple, like a usual breakfast, though we’d hoped for more Georgian cuisine. At 15 lari, I’d suggest having breakfast at a local cafe instead. The location in Kutaisi is great.

The price felt right, and it’s a great place to stay for a night or longer. The owners are a very friendly family, the rooms are really clean, and the location is among the best in Kutaisi.