Hotel Aristocrat

The room was very large, which was a plus, but the two extra beds were disruptive. It was terribly cold inside even though it was +21C outdoors, and the radiators didn’t work. The couch and armchairs were dirty. The bathroom had just one small glass shelf, so there wasn’t much room for toiletries for two people, let alone makeup supplies. Breakfast was below average: no fish, only two or three local cheeses, and yogurt was either nearly gone or not available at all. It brought old Soviet-style accommodation to mind. Most of the staff seemed rather muddy, apart from the women at reception, who spoke good English and smiled.

I was there for two nights in July. After years of traveling, I’m not sure why I booked a place that had just been added to the website and had NO reviews yet. I was disappointed to find there was no reception. The entrance corridor had a kitchen and tables, and that served as the reception. The young man eating there was the receptionist. When I went into the room, I could smell garlic and sausage. He had bread stuck to his lip while talking to me. The rooms were OK. He and a woman named Leila asked me to pay, and I paid in cash. I was too distressed to remember I’d already paid online when I booked. The next day, when I realized they’d charged me again, they wouldn’t accept it. I showed the reservation proving I had paid, but the owner, Adnan, kept shouting at me in his own language and didn’t refund the money. HOTELS kindly refunded me. It was a stressful stay and not Arsiticratic. Road historic. Breakfast was simple but OK, served in the same kitchen, which was also the dining room, reception, and the young man’s bedroom.

Breakfast was served on time, the rooms were always clean, and there was a nice atmosphere. The staff were some of the best I’ve seen. A great hotel.

A great place to stay if you want both modern and old city surroundings. Shops and other places for everyday essentials are nearby.