Simple Choice. Familiar place. Hilton. Sofia
Location and Trust.
Being my 1st trip to Bulgaria, I opted for a hotel chain that I could trust. Traveling by one's self, you have to trust where you lay your head. I love challenges ... but not always.
Sofia's Hilton property met my expectations. Definitely not a luxury hotel. Purely in & out. All business.
The staff were exceptionally welcoming in their own reserved manner.
Security was visible but not overtly armed. They looked professional.
As for comfort, nothing too special but the hotel met my expectations. No special views.
The mini-executive lounge didn't meet my expectations at least when it comes to comfort. Otherwise, they nailed it with the quality of food and drinks on display. Compliments to the chef and staff that maintained the small lounge. The desserts were delightful (See picture).
Location matters. You can walk to a number of places from here.
Also, the concierge and bell men can offer you great advice as where to go in Sofia. Call me a sucker but, some how, I felt less steering by these guys. They came across authentic. Restaurant selection even makes me hungry now.
As for tours, see the concierge for help. They referred me to this one gentleman. He was awesome. A former Bulgarian Army Tank driver who really knew his way around the city and countryside. I wish that I still had his business card. If I had it to do it all over again, I would only work with this gentleman again. Plus, I'd give him a HUGE tip. People like him are hard to find. He's a quality family man that is optimistic about life.
