The Serena Kabul is certainly a very nice international standard hotel and is called the nicest hotel in town by expats who live in Kabul. The security features seem to be about as good as you can expect which is certainly an important criteria. My room was nice and the housekeeping did a good job. Inner courtyard, fitness center and pool are all quite nice and except for the street noise nearby you wouldn't even know you were in a war torn country. I did like the breakfast buffet (except the coffee which was instant), but the room service food on several occasions was not very good. That's just a small quibble, since I didn't eat there very often.

Found myself wondering what to do on Friday in Kabul. Based on a colleague's recommendation, went off to the Serena Hotel in Kabul for Friday brunch.

Friday brunch was crowded. People were waiting for tables but since I was alone, got myself one quite easily. Staff were kind of attentive, clearing away dirty plates. Food was quite ordinary though - nothing outstanding although you must remember that while you got past the heavy steel gates and the armed guards, you are still in Kabul.

It was nice for a change.

Spacious rooms, wonderful service, a great gym and spa area, and outdoor pool. The business center is open 24 hours and well equipped...Ask for a room that is not street-facing, for security and noise reasons.

Once again, the Serena and its amazing staff batted 1000. Each time I stay, it is for several weeks at a time, and each time the friendly and accommodating staff remember me and take care of my every need. Whether it is the General Manager, Mr. , the amazing waiters, the front desk staff, or the housekeepers, you will always receive a smile and a can-do attitude from each person.

SECURITY: Since security is of paramount importance in Afghanistan, it is good to know that the Serena continually enhances its security measures, including admission of you, the guest, and your visitors; the perimeter guards and blockades; and other important considerations. There are many choices of hotels and guest houses in Kabul, but I have yet to find a property that has such professional security personnel and sheer number of individuals. The city of Kabul had a few security issues this summer, and each time I felt concerned, the managers met with me to help me to feel comfortable and to explain in greater detail their efforts to keep all guests safe.

ROOMS: As August is Ramadan, the hotel had fewer guests, so I had the opportunity to witness a lot of renovation going on in the hotel. The General Manager also told me that new flat screen televisions are on the way for all rooms. I have also noted that if anything is awry with your room, staff are quick to repair things. I do suggest the hotel upgrade its mattresses to be comparable to other five star properties; nevertheless, I always have a good night's sleep in a bed that has scrupulously clean linens.

FOOD: The Serena kitchens do not only cook for hotel guests, but they are the principal caterer to the Kabul federal government for dignitary events. As one of the managers said it best, "You are eating the very same food that Madame Clinton did on her most recent visit." I love the buffet breakfast and dinner at Serena. In summer, fresh squeezed juices such as watermelon and honey dew are in abundance. The bakery on site produces the most remarkable array of French pastries. I began purchasing their cookies and cakes to take to friends in the city and every time, people raved about the taste and elegant appearance. (Try the caraway seed cookies with a pot of tea in the afternoon!) The dinner buffet always features grilled meats, and they are second to none. I have probably eaten an entire lamb on my own this month. Every evening, the choices differ; I have yet to try even a quarter of all of the options. On this occasion I also ordered room service at dinner time so I could keep on working. I was impressed with the presentation and taste of each dish, particularly the chicken kebabs and curried vegetables.

SPA: I did not try the massage options, but did have manicure-pedicures twice and a haircut. Absolutely professional and well executed! Thank you, ladies. The spa remains a lovely haven for rest and relaxation, even if you are not paying for a special treatment. You can use the pool or the gym, and then take a sauna and rest in the lovely recliners.

BUSINESS CENTER: It operates 24 hours a day and the staff are knowledgeable and efficient with every need.

CONFERENCE FACILITIES: There are lovely, big rooms and smaller ones tucked all over the hotel, depending on what you need. A large telecommunication company held its annual company dinner for nearly 500. From my room I observed an A+ classy buffet that had gorgeous food stations (including my favorite grilled lamb chops!) set up all over the gardens, elegant tables, and even an Afghan carpeted area for evening prayers.

SHOPS: There are not many choices for shopping at the hotel, but Mohammed's clothing, curio, and jewelry shop is excellent. He will give you great prices so you come back to him on subsequent visits. I frequently purchase up to a dozen lovely women's shawls, since my friends and family invariable take them right off my back as soon as I arrive home. They are that beautiful!

TRAVEL DESK: This desk has gotten more and more professional with each visit. If you need to get somewhere, they have private drivers available for a reasonable cost nearly instantly. These drivers have special identification to get you into the more secure areas of Kabul and they are absolutely honest and security-minded. I had to travel one night to a dinner without my usual entourage of Afghan males, and I felt perfectly safe with my driver in his late model car. I also needed to change a flight, and they were able to take care of this for me in minutes. The desk also can arrange tours and just about anything you wish.

SUMMARY: Whether it is just you or your conference of the masses, you will find the Serena a top flight garden of delights. I cannot wait for my next trip to Kabul and to the lovely Serena.