Birstein Holidays from £247

I was very happy to find this boutique hotel within shouting distance of the Messe. For many years I stayed at the Marriott but wanted a change. It is a charming, quiet and comfortable hotel. The staff are particularly good natured and helpful. I hope no one reads this review so the rates don’t go up too much for next year. Be aware though it’s not fancy or upscale so if that is what you are after it may not be the right fit for you.

The hotel is very well equipped and the staff were courteous and helpful. My personal criticism is the rooms are poorly soundproofed and having the Gym on the top floor is not the best option. I could hear every dropped dumbbell. Such a shame as the location is great.

Secluded and comfortable property

Shortly, I expected more when I was paid $1,150. What was good: staff at the reception were great and very helpful. Room Room is good, wifi okay, sauna, location also good. What was not good: The blanket was barely big enough to cover oneself, even in a room with a king-size bed. The air conditioner kept switching from my chosen setting to 21°C on its own, making the room cold. Opting for the breakfast-and-dinner package was a big mistake. Breakfast was fine—standard for a hotel of this category—but dinner was a total disappointment; the selection was minimal. On the last day, I waited an hour for my food to arrive. The day before that, the food quality was like something from a cheap diner. And earlier when I asked if there was an English menu—in a hotel that seems to cater primarily to foreigners—I was told to use Google Translate, even though I was the only customer there and three staff members spoke fluent English.