Akkol Holidays from £427

Unique point - very very brown Soviet place, clean but dismal. Large room, basic, things worked...just. Reception desk often unmanned. Breakfast served only in room, on a brown table, basic food ordered from pictures. Staff were not very friendly, little smiling, a lot of sighing. Transfer was good, collected punctually early hours of the morning. Situation is good, close to central sights and bus stops. But path is a track with huge puddles to negotiate.

Staff were inattentive. At check in I asked to combine my two reservations and was told someone would get back to me, no one did. At check out, it was a near argument with the staff (who were asleep when I was trying to leave) about them saying I needed to have my room checked before I was “allowed” (in his words) to leave. Other staff didn’t speak English and were unhelpful when I tried to communicate over Google translate. My room was not cleaned one of the nights I stayed. I expected more from a hotel of this caliber.

Staff were very welcoming and helpful at check in. Room was spacious and everything was as expected. QR codes were on desk to allow you to order room service or fill the minibar. Rooms are well soundproofed and have lovely views of the Lovers Park, Khan Shatyr and central Astana. Breakfast was usual buffet style with a mix of hot and cold options, pastries and fruit and veg available. Overall we would happily stay here again.

This hotel is a gem. Friendly, helpful staff, a great gym, good breakfast, and nice rooms. I will visit them again when I'm next in Astana.