Where did the mighty chains go?

Once upon a time, there were a good amount of American chain hotels in Israel. Where did they go? The Hilton Jerusalem, fired for bad management, now the David Citadel. The Hyatt Regency Jerusalem, now simply the Regency. The landmark Sheraton Plaza Jerusalem, now the Leonardo Plaza. Or the Sheraton Moriah Eilat, now the Leonardo Eilat. Ditto Sheraton City Center Tel Aviv, now the Leonardo. The Sheraton Dead Sea, now reduced to the Leonardo Plaza. When asked, a Sheraton representative simply stated that these hotels were "too hard to keep up". Luckily, there is still a remnant of American chains- the Hiltons in Tel Aviv and Eilat, three Starwood properties, and the still growing IC Hotels group, with nine properties and a new Crowne Plaza in Ashdod coming. Also highly anticipated is the Ritz Carlton Herzliya. But still. Come back, American chains! We miss you. Please note: Unless otherwise indicated, IsraelGuest is simply posting its own opinion, based on TripAdvisor reviews and other indicated sources. IsraelGuest representatives have not been guests of the hotels.
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Why can't Jerusalem have good hotels?

Sure, Jerusalem has some decent hotels, namely the legendary King David and the new Mamilla Hotel. Some people might add the David Citadel and then the Inbal to this list, but we would reject them because they're not exactly in the same class (Well, the David Citadel has potential- but the rooms aren't luxurious; and the Inbal has a cheap feel). Granted, Jerusalem is not exactly New York City, with its thirty some odd five- star hotels, but couldn't it have more than two? What ever happened to the Four Seasons Jerusalem? Or the Tamares-owned Jerusalem Pearl, which has great potential, like its sister properties the Daniel Dead Sea, Daniel Herziliya, and Shizen Herziliya. Why is Tel Aviv deserving of all the hip, luxury, chic European hotels? But there is hope on the horizon. Mamilla Hotel is a step in the right direction, as is the fabulous Harmony Hotel, and the Dan Boutique. So is the Palace, A Waldorf=Astoria hotel(if it ever happens). Next year in Jerusalem, with good hotels! Please note: Unless otherwise indicated, IsraelGuest is simply posting its own opinion, based on TripAdvisor reviews and other indicated sources. IsraelGuest representatives have not been guests of the hotels.
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Dan Caesaria- Luxury Prices, No Luxury

While we're on the topic of overpriced (see previous post), we'd like to discuss what in our humble opinion is the most overpriced hotel in Israel, the esteemed Dan Caesaria. This property boasts rates between $400 and $600 dollars per night, comparable to the Dan flagship property, the King David, Jerusalem. But the Dan Caesaria is no King David. As a reviewer on Tripadvisor notes,"This Dan hotel has seen better days... Hotel tatty and dreary. Worn, grey towels and bedding, grubby carpets, blockage in basin, and bath tap didn't work although it was repaired quickly upon request. No clock, newspapers or slippers available. Staff disinterested and bored. One computer in hall which you can pay to use." So why the markup? The pool seems lovely, the gardens well maintained, the hotel has an excellent location, good food, and an adjacent golf course, but really? Doesn't $200 per night seem more fitting? Apparently, Dan is getting away with it though. Please note: Unless otherwise indicated, IsraelGuest is simply posting its own opinion, based on TripAdvisor reviews and other indicated sources. IsraelGuest representatives have not been guests of the hotels.
Been to the Dan Caesaria? Please post your comments below.

Dead Sea- Overpriced?

In short answer, yes. Hotel rates at the Dead Sea are considerably higher than comparable hotels in Eilat. For example, the Isrotel Dead Sea is about $404 per night, while the Isrotel Agamim Eilat or the Isrotel Royal Garden average $249 and $324 per night, respectively. Similarly, the Le Meridien Dead Sea is nearly $100 more than the Le Meridien Eilat. Why is this? Granted, the Dead Sea is closer to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and central areas, and of course the sea is salty, but are those reasons for the $100 markup? Especially since the adventuring, shopping, and hiking, (as well as good weather) that is consistently found in Eilat is missing in the Dead Sea. But, tourists still flock to the Dead Sea and gladly pay up. Of course, the Dead Sea markup is not half as drastic as the Herzilya markup, but at least Herziliya is upscale and beautiful, with great beaches and a central location. Still, Eilat seems to be the best bet.
Please note: Unless otherwise indicated, IsraelGuest is simply posting its own opinion, based on TripAdvisor reviews and other indicated sources. IsraelGuest representatives have not been guests of the hotels.
So why do people go to the Dead Sea for a stay? Please post your comments below.

Adi Hotel Eilat- Not so Bad?

Yes, so technically the Adi Hotel in Eilat is not new or exciting. Tripadvisor reviewers complain of noise, screaming children, bare accommodations, lack of top sheets, and more. But a recent guest and friend of IsraelGuest gave the hotel a thumbs up, praising its relatively good location, decor, food, and overall experience. Of course, we won't rate this hotel together with top Eilat properties, but it seems to be okay for budget travelers.
Been to the Adi? Please share your experiences with IsraelGuest.
Please note: Unless otherwise indicated, IsraelGuest is simply posting its own opinion, based on TripAdvisor reviews and other indicated sources. IsraelGuest representatives have not been guests of the hotels.

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This blog was created to help tourists and all interested people find suitable lodgings in Israel, as well as updates and news about current and upcoming hotels.
Please note: Unless otherwise indicated, IsraelGuest is simply posting its own opinion, based on TripAdvisor reviews and other indicated sources. IsraelGuest representatives have not been guests of the hotels.