Sheraton Aleppo Hotel

Try a breakfast in the Sheraton, all you wish to eat and more...

And if you love ancient times, take a look at the ruins of the old walls of Aleppo, clear behind cristal in both sides of the main entrance.

I just stay in the hotel for one night. it's the first night for me in Syria. It gave me a good impression of Syria.
Around the hotel, there are some places worthy to visit. Just next to the north of the hotel, in the small alleys, there are many little shops which sell syria traditional exquisite artware, handicraft, costume, etc. Pass the alleys, there are an alley which some good traditional syria restaurant is located. All those alley is just a walking distance from the hotel.

Unique Quality: There is a swimming pool in the 2nd floor roof, outdoor type.

A recent addition to Aleppo, the Sheraton Hotel opened its doors in early 2007. A new building was constructed in Bab al-Faraj area to house this modern hotel with five-star amenities, despite being rated only 4-stars. The hotel's location, just south of Jdeideh, is perfect for any visitor to Aleppo, within a short walk from the souks and historic sites, as well as Jdeideh's nightlife and antique shops. What this large chain-hotel lacks in charm, compared to some of the ancient mansions-turned boutique hotels in Aleppo, it compensates for with its modern amenities and excellent location at a reasonable price. I did not stay here, but would consider the Sheraton as an option if other boutique hotels were fully booked. I wanted to include this tip as an option for anyone choosing to visit Aleppo. Check out the hotel website for more information and photos.

Directions: Bab al-Faraj area, just south of Jdeideh

Sheraton Aleppo is your standard five-star fare - a warm comfy room (very important in cold, cold Aleppo), king-sized bed, usual English channels on cable TV (read: BBC but interestingly no CNN), 24-hour restaurant where breakfast buffet is served, coffee and tea-making facilities, etc.

But there is more to like here: the rooms are larger than usual 5-star (it feels like it) and the Filipino chef at their Asian restaurant Ikebana would give you complimentary sushi if you're nice to him (the sushi was not bad for the only Japanese restaurant in town). Service is also attentive and friendly, although they could have more English-speaking concierge (it was a bit strange for an international hotel chain without an English-speaking concierge on duty when I needed some assistance, and it was 11 AM). Check-in was quick and they even gave me a room at one of the more exclusive floors (4th and 5th).

I also liked their pub - Piccadilly - yes, it's their version of an English pub. Good place to hang out for some drinks and fraternize with well-educated, well-bred locals (even if they're a tad tipsy).

And if you're lucky (and care about Arab superstars), you might spot some celebrities like Egyptian singing sensation Tamer Hosny who had a show at the hotel.

Overall, I wouldn't mind staying here again. The hotel is barely a year-old having opened only in February 2007 - so everything is new, faultless and functioning, including the heating system - a welcome treat after braving Aleppine winter for a day's sightseeing.

Directions: Sandwiched at the intersection where the old city overlaps Al Jdeida and the 'modern' downtown area in Bab al-Faraj, location is one of Sheraton's best assets.