Stayed here 2 nights at end of tour of the oases with Ancient World Tours. Found the place rather endearing, but certainly not up-market, and some hilarious design choices. Be sure you visit the "lounge" opposite the reception office - a riot of colour and the very opposite of minimalism. However, I did find it empty, with a comfortable table and chair to write up my journal, so it served its purpose. I suspect the rooms vary in style and condition, so be prepared to check out a few. Mine was upstairs, with a palm tree piercing the walkway to it, and had a ramshackle charm. Dodgy-looking electrics (but everything worked, including noisy aircon and anti-bug plug), chaotic bathroom (but again all worked well), garish ill-fitting bedcovers on very basic narrow beds (but I slept peacefully). Hotel seemed fairly full but it absorbed the people and was quiet, and the spanking new pool was totally empty. Staff were all helpful and very friendly and the dinners and breakfasts were good, once you worked out the system. Only a short walk to the centre of town and the ruins of Shali, both worth exploring on your own.
- Paradise Hotel Siwa
