Jerusalem Gold Hotel, Israel

The trip reviews we had read for the Jerusalem Gold Hotel (234 Jaffa Road, Jerusalem, Israel 94383; phone +972-2-501 3333, fax 501-3344, www.jerusalemgold.com) were mixed. However, we need not have feared; we had a wonderful experience at this hotel.

My wife, Jane, and I stayed there for one week in March ’08. Our room cost $106 per night and I felt that we received good value for the money.

The rooms were comfortable and clean.

The buffet breakfast, included in the room price, was fantastic. It included pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, boiled eggs, deviled eggs, tuna fish, herring, coleslaw, tomatoes, pickles, cucumbers, lettuce, delicious breads, cold cereal, chocolate croissants, cheese and fresh fruit such as grapefruit and apples. The breakfast staff was quite attentive and friendly.

All of the people at the front desk were very helpful whenever we asked for information. They tried hard to please.

We also received attention and information from the hotel owner, Ariela Schmida-Doron. She was extremely solicitous of us. In all of the hotels we have stayed at in many countries, we have rarely ever even met the owner of the hotel. She and the staff gave the hotel a homey feel.

The hotel could not be better positioned for public transportation. Located next to the hotel is the Central Bus Station where one can catch out-of-town buses. Even with heavy bags, there was no problem getting to the station — no stairs.

From the hotel, 15 to 20 local bus lines were just a minute or two away and down one flight of steps. A 10-minute bus ride brought us to several wonderful restaurants on Yoel Solomon Street.

We also took several day trips from Jerusalem to other parts of Israel. When doing an independent trip, the convenience of being so close to public transportation is a big plus.

Because of our pleasant experience in Israel, we plan to return in two or three years. When we do, we will surely choose the Jerusalem Gold.

KEVIN O’BRIEN

Savannah, GA