Turist Hotel Complex

Elegant, newish five storey hotel with pleasant English speaking staff. The hotel is about a 15 minute walk from the "Sakhalin Centre" where many western businesses have offices. There is a Christian church just around the corner from the hotel. Room was very large and had hardwood floors, sofa, armchair, desk, double bed and color TV. Furniture was IKEA style but very tasteful. Bathroom had marble tiled walls, bath/shower, bidet, bathrobe and heated towel rack. Everything is modern, spotlessly clean and top quality. Good amenity kit provided for guests. There is no air-conditioning but a large electric fan keeps things cool. The windows open for fresh air. There is a restaurant just off the lobby but it only opens at mealtimes. Buffet breakfast is included in rate. Usual items: eggs, bacon, yogurt, cereal, tea, coffee, juice. Tastiest feature though was the Russian oatmeal with fruit on top. There is a casino on the main floor where you can exchange $US for Rubles at the going rate. Across the street are three small convenience stores but nobody there speaks a word of English. If you can point, they can show you the price on an electronic calculator. The only drawback for some people might be the lack of an elevator but regardless, this is a great place to stay. I've travelled all across N. America and Europe and stayed with a lot of famous chain names but this beats 99% of them. The "Tourist Hotel" was a very pleasant surprise!