Eastern Europe

Best and worst accommodations:

Best: Hotel Astra in Budapest
Why: Friendly staff helped me with booking over emails. The hotel itself is wonderful; spacious, comfortable rooms with A/C (a big help in the heat wave of the end of June), a great location in the Buda side. One of the three staff we met was very nice but...

Worst: Hotel Astra in Budapest
Why: ... two out of the three staff we met were, well, not so nice and kind of inept. The middle aged fellow who checked us in was about as cold as they come. He was not happy to have us there from the get go. Several stories could be told to illustrate that but I'd be whining. Unfortunately, coupled with his cold manner was a bit of misinformation I had to fix myself. He told me that there were no folk music shows at the nearby venue. I was sceptical and went myself to see. Good thing, as there certainly were. Annoying but good thing I didn't rely on him. But the crazy thing was at checkout. The Hotel Astra insists on being paid in cash. OK, fair enough. What they don't tell you is that they will run each bill under a light to verify that they are not counterfit. Once again, OK, fair enough, I guess they had a bad experience. But then the guy checking us out starts to wig out, saying that "there is a hole in one of the bills". I ask to see it, and good night, it must have been a nick in the edge about 1/2 a millimeter. He ought to see the dollar bills I see everyday back home, with phone numbers, beards drawn on Washington's face, etc., he'd have a stroke at that. Anyway, he reluctantly accepts it when my wife points out that we got the bill out of an ATM 100 meters from the hotel & he ought to take it up with them. We also had tried to give him a not completely used phone card as a gift to use himself or pass on to another guest and you'd have thought we sprayed it with Sarin or something. Anyway, the whole thing was very bushleague. I guess I would say you could still stay at Hotel Astra but don't look for lots of warmth from from them and get your money directly from a teller at a bank and ask for the most prestine bills they hav or you could have trouble paying at checkout.

Shonn in HdG, MD USA 06/28/2008

Best: Starlight Suites
Why: While in Budapest we stayed at the Starlight Suites. The rooms are decorated in what I would call a funky retro '70's modern style. They are clean and comfortable. The suites are large with two comfortable rooms one of which includes a wet bar, sofa, desk, and fireplace. The bathroom is nice and large. A very limited continental breakfast is included in the room rate. The friendly staff is very helpful as in re-arranging cars in their very limited parking lot so that we could park our rental there over night when we could not find parking space on the street. The best part is that the hotel is directly behind the Four Seasons hotel (and at a fraction of the price). This location is only a couple of blocks from the Danube river front. When walking to the Four Seasons, you will see the Sofitel Hotel just a block away. I would recommend the hotel. Phone: +36 (1) 484 37 00 Homepage: www:starlighthotels.com Address: H-1051 Budapest . Merleg utca 6

Mary Ann Christensen in Walkerton, IN USA 06/26/2008

Best: The Gerloczy, Budapest
Why: You have to get yourself to Budapest and stay at the Gerloczy before these people come to their senses and double the prices! The place is upscale, from the high-ceiling rooms to the cafe downstairs. We paid 90 euro per night, which included breakfast and upscale hotel service. As an added bonus, you're in the center of everything in Pest.

Tim in Bay City, TX USA 06/15/2008

Best: Guest House Lida in Prague
Why: Personal welcome and orientation to transportation and sights in the city; friendly owners, great view from attic apartment.

Gail in Albany, OR USA 01/27/2008

Best: Krakow - Hotel Maltanski
Why: Having arrived by train at 5 AM, we were very tired since, even with a sleeper, one gets little sleep on these trains, so we were delighted when the hotel had someone there to meet us and had our rooms ready for us to snuggle in for a few hours of sleep. What a godsend. The rooms were beautiful and well-equipped. The breakfast buffet was marvelous. The staff was extremely accomodating and helpful - even set up a laptop for us to use to get our email. They did honor the Rick Steves discount. And the location was perfect - so close to the square and Kazimierz.

Sondra in Portland, OR USA 11/06/2007

Best: Cracowdays Apartments, Krakow
Why: We have found the best way to truly enjoy European culture is to stay in locally owned B&B's or apartments. Cracowdays is a wonderful apartment that is roomy, clean, has a PC with internet connection, and a nice kitchen to make your own breakfast. Both the owners and the manager are wonderful to work with, very helpful, friendly and provided suggestions on a number of great places to eat. We had a fantastic experience and gladly recommend Cracowdays Apartments to everyone. www.cracowdays.com Al and Mary Hermansen

Allan Hermansen in Delano, MN USA 10/25/2007

Worst: Mama's Hostel in Krakow
Why: this was the absolute WORST hostel that i've ever stayed in. it was bad enough that i moved out after one night to the momotown hostel instead. mama's hostel had stinky bathrooms, the doors to the dorms could not be closed so the noise outside woke me up several times during the night, and the receptionist was not helpful in asking the drunk people to be quiet. another girl and i both got up in the middle of the night to yell at the people to be quiet (it was 4am). the receptionist just sat there ignoring all the noise. it was cheap, but momotown's hostel was only 3 euros more expensive each night and their hostel was infinitely times better.

Carolyn in New York, NY USA 10/24/2007

Best: Pension Nossek in Vienna
Why: Stayed for one night in October. 115 Euros per night for double. Great value. Great central location. 5 minutes from Stephansplatz. Large comfortable room. Good included breakfast.

Ian in Fullerton, CA USA 10/18/2007

Best: Hotel Victoria in Budapest
Why: Stayed in this hotel for two nights in October (room 63). Five minutes north of chain bridge. Ten minutes south of metro station. Unobstructed view of Danube and Pest side. Large modern room, great view, good breakfast. 123 Euros per night. Great value if all you are looking for is a room to come back to after sightseeing. No resort amenities.

Ian in bow, CA USA 10/18/2007

Best: Hotel Globtrotter in Krakow
Why: The staff makes a real effort to be friendly and helpful. The Globtrotter does not offer "breakfast." The absence of the normal European breakfast buffet featuring weak coffee, canned fruits and juices, cold cuts and poor quality breads has to be considered a plus. We picked up stuff we liked at the market or ate at a nearby restaurant and enjoyed our meals. We had a fairly large ground floor room in their quiet courtyard setting. The bath featured a good-sized stall shower with a fixed shower head that you can enjoy hands free -- not a tiny little box that you can't even turn around in without hitting against the faucet controls and scalding yourself. The inclusion of a hot pot and instant coffee and tea bags was another thoughtful feature. All this for a reasonable price and a location that is two blocks from the very center of town.

Worst: Hotel Kalvin Haz in Budapest
Why: We picked this hotel for it's convenient location near the Market House. Breakfast featured cardboard quality cereal and bread, the usual cold cuts, a bowl of apples, and the worst coffee we've ever experienced, which was served almost cold. My wife tried to use their microwave the heat her coffee and was rudely scolded by the staff for entering their tiny food preparation area. The TV remote only worked if you walked up to within 2 feet of the set. When I brought the remote in replacement the desk clerk acted annoyed by my complaint. In any case, they were unable or unwilling to correct the problem. The room itself was large and fairly well-furnished. There is a tub in the bathroom with a hand held-only shower head. My wife and I like to take quick showers in the morning but we found that was not possible.

Rod Young in Bowie, MD USA 09/28/2007

Best: Guesthouse Lida, Prague
Why: Jan was a superior host. We had arranged for him to pick us up at the airport and in additions received an impromptu tour of Prague. His tips on transportation and things to do was fantastic. He even gave us a ride to the subway station on the day we departed. Also, this place had the biggest shower I've ever had in Europe.

Nancy Williams in Avon, CT 08/05/2007

Worst: Senator Haz Hotel
Why: I had really high expectations about this place, since it looks like your typical cute small well-located family-run hostel. I was really disappointed. We were there in the summer and the air conditioning in the room was so loud that I spent a sleepless night, even though I wore my silicone swimming ear plugs. Besides, I like hard mattresses, but our mattress felt like we were sleeping on the floor - we were both sore the next day.

I know the building looks really cute on the outside, and you really can't beat the location, but if we go back, we will definitely find another place to spend the night.

Beatriz Costa in Seattle, WA USA 06/29/2007

Best: Castle View Apartments, Cesky Krumlov
Why: It is the nightmare of any traveler to get sick while on vacation. I woke up with an infection around my eye the morning after I arrived at the Castle View Apartments in Cesky Krumlov. When the manager Jiri Vaclavicek saw me, he immediately offered to take me to the pharmacy for medicine. The pharmacist indicated that my situation called for the intervention of a doctor. Jiri then took me to an eye clinic in town and waited with me until I got settled. I felt bad because I knew he had a busy morning, but I was very gratified by his concern. (Fortunately, the doctor prescribed medicine which rectified the problem, and my vacation continued on a happy note!) Rick's books on Prague and on Eastern Europe call Jiri a "gentle and caring" man. I experienced that gentleness and care first hand. I thought Cesky Krumlov and the Castle View Apartments were wonderful, but nothing was more wonderful than the service I received from Jiri Vaclavicek. I would recommend the Castle View Apartments in Cesky Krumlov to anyone.

Joseph Garvin in Philadelphia, PA USA 04/30/2007

Best: Hotel Anna
Why: It was the only place I stayed in Prague, but is very attractive. Nice big room,, trilingual desk staff, prices quoted in euros, an internet room with "American" keyboard, very nice included breakfast buffet.

Chris Kerstetter in Renton, WA USA 04/20/2007

Best: Pension Accord (Prague) and La Fontaine B&B (Krakow)
Why: Our rooms at the Pension Accord were quite nice and reasonably priced. The location a few short blocks from the Old Town Square was great. Breakfast was included and was served at a New Orleans style cafe a half block from the hotel.

La Fontaine B&B in Krakow was a great choice for our family. We had a family apartment with a double in one bedroom and a room with two twin beds, as well as a hide away bed in the living area. A really good breakfast buffet is included in the price. The location is great as the hotel is right on the main square in the old town.

David Carter in Stillwater, OK USA 04/18/2007

Best: Radio Inn
Why: The apartment was perfect. It was spacious, clean and somewhat elegant in it's own way. The pictures on their website do not do it justice. The manager, Mrs.Balogh, spoke English and was very helpful. The location was great. I would stay there again.

Sheila Kagi in Mechanicsville, VA USA 03/28/2007

Best: Lida Guesthouse - Prague
Why: Jan (and his wife) went out of their way to ensure we had a great time in Prague. We had an early morning train to catch to Budapest and in addition to breakfast, they made us sandwiches to take on the train. Jan is a wealth of information of things to do and how to get around Prague. Another accommodation recommendation that was just right!

Marci in Jersey Shore, USA 03/01/2007

Best: Pension Lindenhof, in Vienna
Why: I went to Vienna in the early part of last July. I stayed in this pension that was very English-friendly and cheap, my single room was something like 29 euros and included a breakfast. I had a sink in my room and a toilet and shower a door or two a way. Not only that, the pension was deserted so it was like I actually rented the entire place.

The staff are very nice, and talkive, especially the father! It's a no-thrills place, fairly centerally-located, and you definitely get your money's worth!

Vanessa in Santa Rosa, CA USA 01/30/2007

Best: Hotel Emonec, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why: The location was the best we've had in any city - a mere minute walk from Triple Bridge. The family room (sleeps 6), with two spacious but spare rooms, was a bargain at 113 euro per night, off-season.

Worst: Hotel Emonec, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why: I know, I'm giving this place a vote for Best and Worst. Why? While the location was great, the family room was located, along with other guest rooms, in the building across from the main reception building. On the backside of our room was a dance club playing music that grew louder throughout the night, culminating with a blasting beat between 2:00 and 4:30 AM. The hotel reception clerk acknowledged they have an on-going battle with the music club, and often have to call the police to get the club to turn down its music, but usually to no avail. The music club is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so these would be the best nights to stay at Hotel Emonec. Otherwise, get a room in the main hotel building.

Melanie Psaltakis (American currently living in Italy) in Cordenons, Italy 01/29/2007

Best: Pension Berc/Bled + others
Why: Pension Berc really stands out. I was ready to splurge that night and tried some of the more expensive places but they didn't have rooms available...and I was so glad! Pension Berc was a beautiful Alpine Chalet building, great breakfasts, I had a bigger room than I'd had for most of my trip, working internet in the lobby, and the Berc family was very welcoming and fun to talk with. Others that stand out - Hotel Hold in Budapest (thought it would be a bit far from things, but it was really very convenient and loved the courtyard lobby). Also Hotel Emonec in Ljubljana - the room was a bit dormitory-like and breakfast not too special, but GREAT location, very clean and comfortable, very helpful man at the front desk (I would have been wandering Ljubljana in the wrong direction if I'd relied on Hertz's directions for how to find them - the Hotel Emonec person set me on the right path!)

Carolyn S. in Seattle, WA USA 12/12/2006

Best: Cotton House - Budapest
Why: The staff is great, rooms are clean, and the breakfast was awesome too. Location is a bit out of the center but not too bad.

Todd K. in Terrebonne, OR USA 11/19/2006

Best: City Hotel in Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why: They are undergoing a major renovation. The rooms are still small but very comfortable. The staff was a little stand-offish at times, but the location was excellent, they put on a hearty breakfast, and the rooms were quiet.

Worst: Pension Aviano in Vienna
Why: In fact, the staff was very friendly and the rooms were comfortable. But the pension was very noisy at night (from other guests at the pension) and we found it difficult to sleep at night.

Scott B. in St. Petersburg, FL USA 11/17/2006

Best: hotel victoria, budapest
Why: the view is amazing...looking out onto the Danube at night with the monuments illuminated is breathtaking. Very helpful staff and variety for breakfast.

gina sandgren in moorhead, mn USA 11/15/2006

Best: Krakow and Warsaw
Why: Globetrotter in Krakow. A Ricks pick but it was a great B & B. Peter and the staff couldn't have been nicer. It is only two short blocks from the Old Town Square but right in the middle of the action. Rooms were larger then expected, the bathroom modern, the beds great. The can answer just about any question. The Duval (duval@akc.com.pl) in Warsaw was one block from the Old Town Square and the main street connecting New Town, Old Town and the Royal Way. All I can say is you get a 5 star at 3 star dollars. Everything was first class.

Mike Worosz in Griffith, IN USA 11/14/2006

Best: Hotel Saski
Why: Not particularly quaint or anything, but you can't beat the location - just steps from the Main Market Square - I loved that!

Carolyn S. in Seattle, WA USA 11/10/2006

Worst: Apartmaji Sobe, Ljubljana
Why: Also goes under name "Tour AS ". Though I found this apt rental group from a different travel book, I wanted to warn readers about them. We have lived and traveled in Europe for years, and usually very happy with rentals.The cost was very good,and reception people friendly. The apartments were represented to me as very quiet, which was far from the truth.Ambulance runs and loud courtyard groups distracted from our sleep greatly.They refused to let us check out early and move to a hotel. Only use this group if you are used to loud city noise.

David Littrell in Union, KY USA 11/02/2006

Best: Hotel Emonec - Ljubljana
Why: The hotel has an excellent location a few steps from Prešeren Square. The staff was friendly, even packing us a breakfast for our 5:15 am ride to the airport. Our room was huge and clean.

travel dorks USA 10/22/2006

Best: Jadranka and Milan Benussi - Dubrovnik
Why: An easy walk from the old town, our room was clean and spacious with great views. The family was very friendly.

travel dorks USA 10/22/2006

Best: Hotels Papillon (Budapest) and Hargita (Vienna)
Why: Both were clean and comfortable and a very economical price. Also conveniently located. Hargita could replace the mattresses soon (Room #10), however. And as Rick said, there is street noise at Hargita, but we brought along a sound machine that effectively blocked out the noise.

Colleen Naughton in Minneapolis, MN USA 10/08/2006

Best: Leo Panzion (Budapest) and Hotel Salvator (Prague) were both great
Why: Friendly staff, good locations, clean and modern accommodations at a reasonable price

Gary Schiavi in Chestertown, NY USA 10/07/2006

Worst: Hotel Garni Berc in Bled
Why: When we arrived, after having problems finding the hotel (bad signs), the owner responded with antisemitic comments ("you people ....") and told us that he will not give us our reserved room (cancelled our confirmed reservation). So we had to look for another hotel.

Shaul in Berger, CA USA 10/05/2006

Best: KK Hotel Opera in Budapest
Why: A jewel of a hotel. Rooms clean, neat, bright. Beds excellent. Bathrooms more than adequate. Staff very helpful. Free computer use in lobby. Great breakfast. Perfect location.

jerry bergstein in Indianapolis, IN USA 10/03/2006

Best: Benussi Apartments in Dubrovnik
Why: Jadranka Benussi and her Apartment #2 are a treasure! Jadranka was a very good host -- available when needed, but not intrusive. Apt. 2 is the one we rented, and it was wonderful. Very clean, new and cheerful. Location is ideal, 5 minutes walk from the Pile gate. We chortled to ourselves every time we walked up the stairs (64 steps) to the apt, past the new Hilton. We had just as good a location, at about 1/3 of the price.

Annie Moore in Seattle, WA USA 10/02/2006

Worst: Tourist Farm Hudicevec
Why: Called ahead to book and told them that we didn't eat beef/pork, but chicken, fish or vegetables would be fine. They said no problem. We arrived in the afternoon. It's worth mentioning that this place is about 30 yards from a major freeway and there is no "farm" in evidence. Not exactly the "farm stay" atmosphere we anticipated. Dinner for the 7 guest rooms was to be at 7. At about 6, two tour busses pulled up and several hundred men filed in for dinner. Went down at 7 to find no place to sit - the dining room filled with drunk guys who were smoking. Were told that we could eat in our room or outside on the deck. Deck was filled with smokers and it was cold out. We shared a table with another couple who warned us that the food wasn't very good. Our dinner arrived and it was a deep fried lamb patty. We asked for the chicken/fish/veggie option and were told they had none. Finally they brought us a veggie plate containing: canned peas, canned yellow wax beans, and some kind of packaged gnocchi. The worst meal we had in a month in Eastern Europe. And we're not really picky! We sent it back and they brought us some soup, but were pretty rude about it. The staff was harried and exhausted after serving the tour busses. I guess they come at lunchtime too. I had read about farm stays and had an expectation of at least half-decent food. They had a garden full of produce, but we sure didn't see any of it. Clearly, these folks make their money from feeding the tour groups. Might be time to take this spot off the list!

Betsy Frank in Yakima, WA USA 09/29/2006

Best: Hotel Astra, Budapest
Why: Short walk to the metro, not very expensive, large & clean rooms, quiet.

Tom Duffy in Northbrook, IL USA 09/23/2006

Best: Hotel Berc
Why: Beautiful workmanship, friendly and helpful owner (Luka), good location, free internet station

Jane Wallace in Walnut Creek, CA USA 09/08/2006

Best: Pensjonat Trecius - Krakow
Why: Huge room, very central, good breakfast, great service, at a low price

Worst: Old Prague Hostel (Prague), Hostel 99 (Cesky Krumlov)
Why: They both lost our reservation

Lauren in New York, NY USA 09/06/2006

Best: Hostel Celica
Why: Hands down one of the best places we stayed at. Awesome restaurant in the hostel as well - note that it's only open during the weekdays, as the kitchen closes on weekends.

Jim Diego in Ann Arbor, MI USA 09/02/2006

Worst: Boutique B&B Warsaw
Why: We made reservations over 2 months in advance and telephoned our credit card number to guarantee the room. When we arrived at 3:00 in the afternoon our room had already been given to someone else and we were made to feel that it was our fault for not reconfirming the reservation. We should have booked a room at the Holiday Inn. It looks new, has good rates, and is in a good location a few blocks from the train station.

Dan in Escondido, CA USA 08/26/2006

Best: Hotel Peristil, Split Croatia
Why: Location inside walled city was very convenient for sightseeing. Hotel was very new and in great condition. Our room had view of old town. The owner and staff were very friendly and helpful. The restaurant was good quality with very nice outside seating - not real fancy - and was very convenient.

Worst: Hotel Senacki, Krakow Poland
Why: Actually, the room that my wife and I had could have been rated in the "best" section. However, our traveling friends got a room that was not air conditioned when the reservation specifically was confirmed for air conditioning. And it was very hot that week in Eastern Europe (July 18-20, 2006). Hotel staff admitted they had assigned someone else the air conditioned room by mistake and reduced the price by 20%.

Gary Newton in Newport Beach, CA USA 08/23/2006

Best: Iron Gate Hotel Prague
Why: My family stayed at the Iron Gate for 4 nights this summer. While it was not recommended in the Best of Eastern Europe 2006, I would highly recommend the Iron Gate. I had researched many hotels in advance and took a chance on the Iron Gate. It turned out to be a great decision. We were a family of 4 so I reserved 2 rooms. One double and one double suite. This worked out great for our family as the rooms were next to each other and the suite had a separate living room that had connecting doors from both rooms. This way we were able to share the connecting living room with our childrens room. Great set up for family. The hotel has a perfect location. Only a few minutes walk from Charles Bridge, Clock Tower, etc. Perfect. The hotel itself is very nice. The rooms are large by European standards, very clean and well appointed. A/C worked well. Free internet in the lobby. The staff was excellent. The restaurant was good. The buffet breakfast was very nice and you could order items from the kitchen in addition to the buffet. You could eat in the cellar dining area or in the beautiful interior courtyard patio. Really nice. The building that houses the hotel is a very ancient with lots of history. When I return to Prague I will stay at the Iron Gate again.

Jay in Scottsdale, AZ USA 08/14/2006

Best: Hotel Berc in Bled.
Why: Great location, close to lake for swimming, hiking. Luka, the host, was a wonderful help,with maps, bicycles, info, etc. The rooms are spacious, comfy, new, with balconies. We loved it!

Lori Guderyon in Madison, WI USA 08/14/2006

Worst: Hotel Trst, Lake Bled, Slovenia
Why: The hotel itself was fine, and we had a lake view, which was lovely. However, the Panorama restaurant across the street featured a duo who played live music on an outdoor terrace every night we were there (a Saturday, Sunday, and Monday night). Loud live music, starting around 9pm and running to the wee hours, often covers of American popular and country music, with frequent accordion accompaniment! (I will never listen to Fats Domino or Tammy Wynette the same way again!) The first night it really bothered us (and ear plugs did not help); the second night, we just made sure we had a few excellent Union beers before bed, and fell asleep with no problem. But those who are very sensitive to noise should stay someplace further up the road or up the mountain (like the Jadran) or over in the old town on the other side of the lake.

Marsha Moseley in Ashburn, VA USA 07/27/2006

Best: Eger Guesthouse, Eger, Hungary
Why: Immaculate rooms, friendly host, the biggest breakfast we had had in weeks! Not to mention a great location.

Caroline Rausch in Tucson, AZ USA 07/23/2006

Worst: Boutique B&B Warsaw
Why: I made a reservation several weeks before I got there and when I arrived, the owner was not there and I was told I had to wait for him to return. I asked several times if they had the reservation and was told "no problem, no problem." After half an hour, the owner arrived and told me he didn't have the reservation ("these things happen") but he would take me to another hotel for the same price. I had this happen in Croatia last year and we were taken to a smelly house above a loud bar. I told him that I thought he was scamming me and to prove it, once we left his maid called and told him to pick up another traveller for whom they also did not have a room. As we drove, I saw the Ibis and told him to drop me there instead. He seemed disappointed.

Erin in Long Beach, CA USA 07/20/2006

Best: Hotel Park, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why: Conveniently located and what I expected. Other fine places I stayed were Villa Ragusa (Dubrovnik), Penzion Berc (Lake Bled), and Maria and Istvan's (Budapest).

Worst: None.
Why: All of the places I stayed from the book's recommendations were decent.

Kyla Gurganus in Ypsilanti, MI USA 07/16/2006

Best: The Polski in Krakow (in your book last year)
Why: There were four of us by now and the first day in Krakow we were joined by my son-in-law, making us five persons. The Polski did not blink at adding an extra person. They were gracious, hospitable and the hotel is beautiful. There were restorations going on all around and the noise was constant, but somehow we just "went with it" and had a good time (and a good sleep). Please put the Polski back in your guide book. Praha: The Hotel u Tri Bubnu was very good, although it was difficult getting our luggage up to the "Attic Suite."

Marlene Ruff in El Dorado Hills, CA USA 07/12/2006

Best: Knezevic Guest House, Plitvicka National Park
Why: We stayed one night at the Knezevic Guest house at #57 in the town of Mukinje. This is right at the Plitvicka National park, and so easy to find. There are no street names, and as you turn at the sign to Mukinje, #57 is easy to spot. It's a lovely, 11 room small hotel in a house. Each room is spotless, and lovingly cared for with many little special details! For €35 per night, we didn't know what to expect, but it was much nicer than Hotel Jezero, which we also went into. We were personally welcomed when we drove up, and when we left Mrs. Knezevic walked out and waved goodbye to us as we left, early in the morning. She offers breakfast for €5 each at 8:30 a.m. in a large breakfast room on the lower level. There is also a TV in this room, which we enjoyed watching the France/Brazil world cup game on, while enjoying a bottle of wine we brought! She had drinks you can purchase here also. This breakfast room is so comfy and they have put so much attention to detail in it. There is a large yard also, and a terrace where you can eat or have drinks. No a/c in the rooms, but we didn't need it. The park was the most beautiful place we have ever seen, and it took us about 4 hours to hike it, beginning at Entrance 1 and working our way to Tram stop ST-4, on the G2 trail, where we then took the tram back, close to entrance 1. We started our day at 8 a.m. in the park, with a light rain, and saw no other guests hiking for the next 1 1/2 hours. The hike "up" was not steep and the views of the waterfalls were magnificent. I think others hike down from entrance 2, but the views of the waterfalls wouldn't be as good from this direction. This park is so lush, with water so clear, we've never experienced anything like it. There is also a grill restaurant outside at entrance 2, and small markets at both entrances. I can't think of a better home to stay in here than the Knezevic Guest House. Contact details are: www.knezevic.hr or e-mail guest_house@vodatel.net

Lorrie in Cincinnati, Oh USA 07/09/2006

Best: Benussi, Jadranka & Milan in Dubrovnik
Why: We spent 5 nights in June in the sobe/home of Jadranka and Milan Benussi, just 5 minutes walk from the Pile gate in Dubrovnik. Their rooms and apartments are wonderful! One apartment even has it's own small terrace. They are modern, the woodwork was done by Milan, have wonderful a/c, satellite tv, comfortable beds and great bathroom. Our room had a small refrigerator and stove top. The main terrace is lovely with a view of the sea and has large pots of hydrangeas decorating it. We spent a couple of evenings here enjoying drinks and good conversation with Jadranka and her son. They are so welcoming and it's really interesting spending time with them, learning a bit about what Dubrovnik and their family have been through with the past war. We hope to return sometime to their lovely home. They are special people and have made a wonderful place here for travelers.

We arrived in Dubronik by plane and took the bus to the Pile Gate. From here you can easily see the Hilton Hotel. If you walk to this hotels front door, you will see a small alley straight ahead. Just walk up this to the top of the stairs, turn left and up several steps, you will see the Benussi's green door. This is a wonderful, central location. The Pile gate is a transportation hub so it's easy to bus from here to other areas. There is a good bakery and grocery store here also. It's also only a 5 minute walk to the Old Port, within the walls of Dubrovnik, where many of the small boats will take you to other islands for the day.

Their contact information is: www.dubrovnikportal.com/benussi, www.dubrovnik-online.com/apartments_benussi/ or e-mail mbenussi@inet.hr

Lorrie in Cincinnati, Oh USA 07/09/2006

Best: B & B La Fontaine - Krakow
Why: Absolutely perfect location! In spite of the 80 steps to our top floor room. Nice room and wonderful breakfast. They were amused at me because I took a picture of the breakfast buffet it was so pretty. Eastern Europe was above my expectations. Your recommendations were extremely helpful! Thanks.

maryAnn Bray in Alton, Il USA 06/24/2006

Best: Korzkiew Castle - Krakow
Why: This is a newly renovated 14th century castle 9 miles outside Krakow, surrounded by beautiful countryside. The renovations maintain the castle feel - we were up two flights of spiral staircases to the top of the tower. The room was very comfortable; large with lots of windows as well as a fireplace. The accomodations and staff are first rate - the breakfast (included) is traditional, but enormous. The staff assisted us in getting into town and picking us up each day. There is also a 17th century church just up the hill. A great place to go exploring.

Eddie Mire in Austin, TX USA 06/20/2006

Best: Globetroter Guest House in Krakow, Poland
Why: We booked our trip late and most hotels were full. Marta and the staff worked to find and place for the 3 of us. Wonderful, quiet little place close to the square, clean, comfortable with a good shower. Basic and not for anyone traveling expecting heated floors and fluffy robes. I would say this place is rustic but comfortable. Marta had good recommendations for dinner and activities and all concerns were addressed immediately if there was a problem. Would stay there again. Ran into 2 other couples traveling with the Rick Steves guide book at the hotel.

Worst: Hotel U Klenotnika Prague, Czech Republic
Why: The location was good and I didn't mind the steps up to the room but several things didn't work in the room. When we asked about fixing things several of the people at the desk were very rude and one of the girls waved us off telling us to come back later. Staff was not helpful. the airconditioning didn't work and it was very hot the 3 nights we were there. On a busy street so it is very noisy to sleep with the windows open. The refrigerator didn't work so we brought drinks into the hotel and never used anything provided by the hotel. On check out had to argue with the staff about charging us for drinks because they were charging us by empty bottles in the room not by looking in the refrig to see if we had used anything. Finally got them to take it off the bill. Would not recommend it and would never stay there again. Only person that was helpful was the woman in the breakfast area each morning. They did honor the 10% discount when mentioning Rick Steves which as a plus

Terri Eggeman in valrico, FL USA 06/20/2006

Best: Cloister Inn
Why: It's conveniently located in the heart of Prague. The place was just renovated. The room is clean and spacey. And I also enjoyed the breakfast. There are many good restaurants around the area. Plus, the front desk people are very friendly.

Elaine in Seattle, WA USA 06/18/2006

Best: Hotel Saski
Why: This hotel was beautiful, fairly inexpensive and close to Main Market Square in Krakow. The staff were courteous and helpful. They were very accomodating and let us check in as soon as we got there (around 10am). I would remind future travelers to think about the weather as our room did not have air conditioning. We went in early May so it was still very cool and comfortable. Hotel Saski was an excellent choice.

Jeannie Fiser in Cincinnati, OH USA 06/12/2006

Worst: Villa Ana, Split, overrated
Why: Booked there due to incredible review in book, "best value on whole Dalmatian coast." Booked 6 months ahead. Were given room on street level behind check in desk which was dark. Had to keep drapes drawn as people were walking by on footpath. Found Villa Ragusa in Dubrovnik to be a much better value.

Amy MacNaughton in Edmonds, WA USA 06/08/2006

Best: Pension Trecius in Krakow
Why: Excellent location, good price, very clean, fine professional service from Monika and the crew. Spent four nights with them and felt that this was one of the best places during a 3+ week swing through eastern Europe. I'd suggest booking early as they have rightfully become a known quantity. We loved Krakow for the friendly folks, interesting history, stylish atmosphere, good food, relatively lower costs, good shopping (lots of amber jewelry products)and will go out of our way to return if we're anywhere in that part of Europe again.

Roger M in Portland, OR USA 06/04/2006

Best: Hotel Krolewski, Gdansk
Why: Gdansk is a wonderful city, and the Hotel Krolewski was a good place to stay. I enjoyed the view from our room and the 10 minute walk to the main part of the city.

Karen Herreid MN USA 05/17/2006

Best: Burg Hotel Budapest
Why: Great location in the Buda Hills. Room is clean, but the shower is small (think broom closet). Breakfast is adequate, but the staff is eager to please. It's entirely non-smoking, a nice break in a country that seems to love its tobacco.

Alan Sheptin in Goldens Bridge, NY USA 04/19/2006

Best: Hotel Victoria - Budapest
Why: Incredible views. Perfect location. Helpful and friendly staff. Great breakfast.

Kim Garrett USA 04/04/2006

Best: Budai Ildiko's room in Vienna
Why: Budai and (her son? grandson?) Atilla were lots of fun. They were very friendly and welcoming. No breakfast, but they gave us tea and sightseeing advice. Much cheaper than any other accomodations we found, and we never felt in the way or uncomfortable to be staying with them. Attila works as a tour guide and I was disappointed not to have more of a chance to talk with him - he's very interesting. In the brief conversation we did have with him, he told us some great stuff about Mongolia, and now we're really thinking of going there.

Zoe Trieff in Austin, TX USA 03/16/2006

Worst: Red Bus Hostel in Budapest
Why: Maybe we're just not hostel people. We stayed here because the price was reasonable and we could get a private double room. The room was clean and the bathrooms were fine (although the women's shower turned into a soggy mess really quickly). However, our room was just off the main entrance and in spite of all of the signs asking people to be considerate, I was often woken up by the sound of slamming doors and people stomping around.

Zoe Trieff in Austin, TX USA 03/16/2006

Best: Hotel Hastal in Prague
Why: little gingersnaps on the pillow, the nicest hotel we encountered in Eastern Europe, a soft and wonderful bed

Zoe Trieff in Austin, TX USA 03/16/2006

Best: Maria and Istvan's rooms, Budapest
Why: They were wonderful! Helpful! Room was very nice with a kitchen we could use. Public transportation was close but walking was also very easy. We would recommend (and already have) to our best friends. Would like to go back!

Jill Van Langeveld in Salt Lake City, UT USA 02/13/2006

Best: Pension Anna's Breakfast in Cesky Krumlov, Villa Ragusa in Dubrovnik, Dinner in Pension Mayer, sobe Petricic in Hvar, Tereza Depolo in Korcula
Why: The accommodations listed above and recommended in the Best of Eastern Europe more than lived up to the expectations. Eating breakfast with the Petricic family overlooking the Adriatic Sea and the harbor of Hvar was a treasured memory. Visiting with Pero (Peter) Carevic about his experiences during the seige of Dubrovnik and staying at his beautifully remodeled sobe in the center of the walled city of Dubrovnik was priceless.

Worst: The sobes around Plitvice Lakes
Why: Sobes were not as quaint as we expected and very noisy with other guests. Large hotels were full and expensive. You only need one night so it was okay

Daryl Hartnett in Colorado Springs, CO USA 01/26/2006