Ibis Styles Jerusalem

Here at IsraelGuest, we tend to think that we have a pretty good hold on things in the hotel world. In Israel, at least. We comb through the internet for announcements and press releases, we search major chains to see if they have anything planned, and we depend a good deal on walking around on foot and seeing what we can see. We even spent a good hour reading a magazine in French to glean details on the upcoming Sea Hotel in Bat Yam (all we figured out is that they are selling hotel rooms for private ownership and that the hotel will be very luxurious and 26 stories high). For all these reasons, when a major hotel opens totally under our radar, it's pretty shocking. Such was the case with the ibis Styles Jerusalem. Granted, we knew that some new hotel rooms from Accor where coming to the capital. We knew that two new hotels were on their way, including an ibis. Yet the fact that it opened unbeknownst to us and even more the fact that it opened in East Jerusalem came as total surprises. But yes, the 91- room hotel in Sheikh Jarrah is now open. And it looks really nice. For those familiar with the low- cost, no frills European brand, Ibis Styles is the funkier sister, which typically offers a heavy dose of, well, style, while maintaining rack-bottom rates. We're loving the colorful interiors and the hints of Jerusalem stone in the rooms, as well as the cutout Jerusalem skyline headboards. Amenities are limited, but include free Wifi, parking, and a children's playroom as well as a dining room. Rates are low, starting at $85 per night. Our only qualm is the location. Although the website claims the hotel is in the "city center," our snobby selves would probably prefer to stay a little closer.