I am an airline captain by profession and since I travel for a living I have become somewhat of an expert on hotels and such. I stayed at the Bristol Hotel during my third visit to Odessa this past August 2011, and I was very impressed. The hotel was totally renovated, everything was brand new, and the decor rivaled some of the multi-Billion-dollar establishments in Las Vegas (those who visit Las Vegas often know and appreciate what I mean). I had a standard room which was large even by American standards. My room was very spacious with a very high ceiling and even with a lovely balcony with a great view. The hotel staff all spoke English and the service was impeccable - super friendly, very attentive, and extremely helpful. Wireless internet worked well and the TV had some English satellite channels available. The executive rooms are apparently the same rooms as the standard ones, but you receive even a higher level of service, although I must admit that I was treated so well that I cannot see how "an extra effort" is even possible. The location is perfect - everything is within short walking distance and the area is safe, there is not much traffic noise, and the whole establishment is truly first-class. I could easily continue explaining how happy I was with my stay at the Bristol, but suffice to say that if you are traveling to Odessa, then without a question do yourself a favor and stay at the Bristol even if it might cost you a few dollars more per night (as compared to some other establishments). You will thank yourself and be very happy that you did !

Good points:
- Spacious room
- Well equiped (free Wifi, flat screen),
- Clean
- good room service

Drawbacks:
- security service is very arrogant and incompetent. 2 days after my arrival, they were still asking for my room number. Once, my russian girlfriend wanted to visit me in hotel and she was asked many private questions by the security guy as if she was a terrorist! Very humiliating experience for her.
- my room was very noisy because of cars (even i had asked for a quite room suring the reservation)
- no english or french speaking TV channel !!
- gym and swiming pool are in a different bulding (10mn away)

I have just returned from Odessa yesterday. While the first few days of my stay were fantastic, the trip got even better as soon as i booked in to this hotel. The staff were all fantastic and I will be using the Vertex Hotels whenever possible.

John Dudgeon, Edinburgh, Scotland