Melissa Palace

Compared with hotels in Berastagi, the room was in very poor shape. I wouldn't stay more than one night. There was no hot shower, shower hose, air conditioning or fan; no seated toilet, wardrobe, soap, shampoo or TV either. The power outlet was loose, the area was noisy, the door lock had problems, and the bathroom was clogged.

We barely slept. Our room was inside the building, with windows opening onto the hallway, where other guests seemed to be having a party. They ran from room to room, shouting and singing until midnight, then started up again around 5 am. Staff did nothing to quiet them. The bathroom could have been cleaner, too. We checked out before 7, a first for us, even though the first ferry wasn't until 8:30. We only took this inexpensive 250,000 one-night stay because we'd missed the last ferry. I wouldn't recommend it unless you're in the group making the noise and don't care about other guests.

For a night before heading to Samosir, this can do if you arrive knowing it's very basic. The staff seemed friendly, and it's close to the ferry and market. The main street has a few places that look decent for eating and some clothing shops. About a 10-minute walk away, there's a small peninsula with a beach, paddle boats for rent, and more shops. In hindsight, I'd haggle over the price and bring earplugs. My cheapest, “Standard room” had a big, airy feel and a gorgeous view from the large balcony, but nothing to see from the bedroom. The bed was clean, though much too soft, so I kept sinking toward the middle even at the edge. The walls were grimy, and the old seats were dirty. There were no sheets, just a blanket; no air conditioning or fan, only open windows, which worked for the temperature but let in mosquitoes. No hot or even warm water, toilet paper, or water from the hose for washing after using the toilet. The wardrobe was locked, there was no light by the bed, and no TV or other modern comforts. The thin walls and vents did little to block a loud snorer next door while I was typing. Motorbikes often went up the street, their sound seemed amplified, and dogs barked here and there.

Nice family owners, and just three minutes from the ferry to Tuktuk. It's cheap and can be fun for a night, though it feels like old luxury with a lot of dust.