Exploring the country is always a good way to find out about hotels. It could be a small construction project that we previously overlooked, or a large one with some surprising updates. For example, there we were, driving around Old Jaffa, when we came across the Orchid Pasha Kishleh Jaffa Hotel (which, as you'll recall, was hunting for a better name). A large sign proudly heralded the result of this name competition, with The Setai Jaffa. Now, in truth, to us the Setai evokes an ultra-modern, sleek Japanese zen style South Beach hotel. A restored Ottoman palace in Jaffa with Middle Eastern inspired interiors? Less so. There's still no official opening date, but the hotel seems to be progressing nicely. A supposed 7-star property, the 115-room hotel will also have a spa, chef restaurant, Turkish bath, and rooftop infinity pool. In addition, Orchid Hotels, the group behind the Setai, like the name so much that they've borrowed it for a second hotel on the shores of Lake Kinneret, with 110 suites with private pools. The hotel will also include "Israel's largest spa complex". Meanwhile, over in Jerusalem, Herbert Samuel still hasn't opened. But we peeked into the lobby the other day and found that all the chandeliers and furnishings are in place (although still wrapped in plastic). Can't wait for the wraps to come off of this one! Interestingly, the hotel is advertising its location adjacent to Nachlaot, which it labels the "Soho of Jerusalem". We wouldn't have thought. And finally, also in Jerusalem, a former apartment building on the Ben Yehuda pedestrian street is being converted to a second Ibis Styles Jerusalem. This is part of Accor's effort to add a considerable amount of rooms to the capital and follows the opening of the Ibis Styles in Sheikh Jarrah. Ibis Styles hotels are known for their fun, quirky designs and affordable accommodation. We're looking forward to seeing some of those wood Old City wall headboards, like in the other Ibis Styles. No word yet on opening dates, but it looks like there's quite a ways to go yet.
