Hotels

Ideal is a lovely, warm, hospitable family-run hotel situated in the university area, about a 5 minute taxi ride (in the area recognized by taxi drivers as "Lev Tolstoy") - or a longer, pleasant walk down University Boulevard - from the Registan Square. The hotel enjoys a quiet but central location in Samarqand with major tourist landmarks within walking distance (20-30 min).  Yet it is a nice walk and if this is not something you fancy - taxis are very cheap - it will cost you about a dollar to travel anywhere in the centre of Samarkand. Samarkand does not have a compact old town so walking is something that is expected anyways. There are also couple of small shops right next to the hotel.

Ideal Hotel  features 11 guests rooms, including two deluxe and 9 standard single rooms. They even have a duplex with a living room downstairs and twin beds upstairs. The air-conditioned rooms feature classic d?cor and old-style wooden furniture. All rooms include a flat-screen TV, refrigerator and a terrace.  The TV in the rooms has many international channels received from satellite. Good pressure showers in private bathrooms. The rooms are clean and suitably equipped for a comfortable stay. The hotel is very clean and well-kept with typically blue colour throughout.

Breakfast is fairly simple but refilling (a fried egg, a sausage, a pancake, Greek yoghurt, bread, butter, and tea/coffee, enough to get you started in the morning). Eating area is a little dank being in the basement but nothing to complain too much about. Nice option of eating in their courtyard with a fountain and the typical style tables that are just great for relaxing.  No restaurant on - site but few good options close by. Internet is free but not always reliable.

Very helpful staff, can arrange pick-up and drop-off service from the railway station. The hotel has a pleasant reception which seems to be manned mainly by friendly teenagers that are keen to be of service. They are happy to offer you advice on places to see and go. Good English is spoken.

Quiet and pleasant place to stay. Fair price.