*Constant small maintenance jobs going on throughout the hotel during the daytime*
Beds were made fresh every day, hot shower, a bit of breakfast and friendly helpful staff made me glad I chose it.
*** WARNING - THIS IS A DRY HOTEL !!! *** now THAT was a bit of a shock initially ;o)
Located on the west of the Nile (see rough location map in photos) with supermarket, banks & ATMs, various kiosks/shops and even a KFC in the immediate vicinity.
Not alot to do around the area (except explore the fascinating local streets if you like), but is walkable (10 mins) to the Nile for a strole (beware though crossing the main roads in Cairo is a nightmare.... I only attempted it one time - never again!).
The Hotel staff will hail you a taxi to anywhere you want to visit or to dine at. I used this method for most of my stay, exploring many other districts of Cairo to restaurants in the evening, and also to the Museums, Pyramids etc during the day.
On average no trip I made was above 20LE (around £3) one way, but do flag your own taxi (there is no shortage in Cairo) down on the streets I suggest - you will pay at least half of this price doing it yourself.
Facilities..... 'the real deal'
140 twin/double rooms: TV, phone, minibar (empty), radio (not working).
A bit tatty, but OK for the price. Air con. units looked dusty.
22 suites: Same, but consising of 1 twin room & 1 double room
Onas Restaurant: I only used this for breakfast (not that nice, usual Egyptian hotel fare - luke warm omlettes, fried potatoes, sausage & onion mix). I tended to stick to bread, cheese, yoghurt, juice & coffee.
I didn't eat here in the evening, as I tend to like some wine with my dinner (and this hotel being 'dry').
Coffee shop: open most of the day & early evening for light food & drinks. Another great place for a GREAT city view.
Roof top pool & patio (open 9am til sunset): Small pool (just for plunging really) - I must say I didn't like the look of the water (seemed unfiltered to me), so didn't go in. Around 10 loungers, a few table/chair sets, snack & drinks served. GREAT city view from here though!
Room service: can't comment, didn't use.
Sauna & fitness centre: had a quick look, all looked fine - but I didn't use. Think you had to pay 25LE/day for use of the gym and or sauna/turkish bath. NOTE: separated facilities for Men and Women.
Shop: Tiny little shop with the usual trinkets/postcards. Well overpriced though.
Laundry & dry cleaning: didn't use.
King Tut's Cafe: never found this place open during my stay.
Internet cafe: 10 PCs available. Cost: 10LE/hour. Get tickets @ Reception.
Transportation: $30 one-way for an assist (help getting Visa) & transport to the Hotel from Cairo Airport.
