The Jerusalem Gold is a great place, in a great location, and has great staff and services.The central bus station is located a block away, making it the best hotel if you wish to take short trips or travel on your own. Most local buses have a stop around the corner too, and airport transportation is easy and inexpensive.
I had heard about this hotel previously and was looking forward staying there. I was traveling with a large group (54 of us) and we arrived in the afternoon. We were given a glass of juice upon arrival and our rooms were ready to be occupied. The staff was very kind, helpful, and eager to please.
The rooms were clean, well-appointed, and tidy. My room had two twin beds, two night tables, a dresser, a desk, and a small ottoman. There was a small fridge under the desk which kept drinks very cold.The bathroom had been remodeled and it had nice looking, modern fixtures. There was plenty of hot water and the water pressure was great. The air condition unit worked well and it kept the room nice and comfortable since the weather outside was warm. The safe box was easy to use and we were able to keep our valuables under lock and key while we visited the area.
Our group had breakfast and dinner included so we had an opportunity to sample a variety of meals there. Dinner included a choice of meat, chicken, fish, and a vegetarian entree, there were vegetables, soup, and a large variety of salads including great home-made hummus. Fresh fruit and home-made dessert topped a great meal. Breakfast included eggs, juice, a variety of cold cuts, pastries, and strong coffee, which I loved. On Saturday we were served a "continental breakfast" including juice, pastries, a variety of cheeses, toast, and coffee. This was due to the fact that the hotel observes Shabbat, just like the rest of the country, and there are very few places open from Friday night to Saturday night.
The shopping center was within walking distance and it had a drugstore, a supermarket, a variety of stores, and a Food Court including a Mc Donald's which accepted US dlls. There is a money exchange place near by and also plenty of ATM machines.
The hotel staff was friendly and helpful. They spoke English and really tried to make our stay very comfortable. They accommodated special needs such as keeping medicines refrigerated and under lock and key. There is wireless internet available at a small charge, and the lobby is nice and comfortable. There is a small bar with a TV and also a piano, which another group's member played one nigh, to our delight.
If you wish to visit the Western Wall all you need to do is catch the #1 bus around the corner for less than two dollars and get off at the last stop. Once you are done, you can catch it back about a block away and get off at the last stop. It is a nice ride and you will get to see the Meah Sherim section of Jerusalem. This bus takes you near the "Empty Tomb" area, and also near the new shopping center, thus making it ideal for short trips into the old city.
In summary, I found this hotel to be a hidden gem offering great services and in a great location. I totally enjoyed my stay there and hope to make it my home away from home when I go back to Jerusalem.
