Now part of the ever-expanding international Best Western stable, Hotel Topaz offers a comfortable and familiar service in one of Romania's most vibrant cities. While many Romanian hotels are still struggling to shake off the legacy of Communist-era service (or lack of it), the Best Western puts its best foot forward to provide an international standard of comfort for both the large number of business travelers heading to Cluj, as well as the growing band of tourists opting for a holiday in Romania. Still, it manages to keep its prices at affordable Eastern European levels.
Located in a good residential area of the city—Maraesti—but close to the main business district, Hotel Topaz is only a 10-minute walk from the historic city center, where there is an abundance of bars, cafes and restaurants, as well as cultural attractions such as the opera house and cathedral.
While curious travelers may prefer to take a stroll into the city center to sample authentic Romanian fare, many guests will be happy with the range of food on offer in the hotel's two restaurants. The Topaz Restaurant serves from an international menu. The traditional Ciuleandra offers Romanian dishes and deserts, including the frighteningly strong plum brandy, tuica, on its drinks menu. Hotel Topaz has a range of private dining rooms, as well as the Legends bar and cafe for business meetings and evening drinks.
The hotel has five conference rooms, which are equipped with air conditioning, Internet access, and a range of multimedia equipment.
The 40 air-conditioned guest rooms are modern, luxurious and appealing to western guests. Visitors can choose from a selection of "rustic" rooms, which have wooden or wrought-iron furniture and exposed brickwork—and "business" rooms, which show a minimalist style. Five suites are in the mix. All rooms have Internet access and a whirlpool tub.
For those unaccustomed to traveling in Eastern Europe, the Topaz is an excellent way to ease into Romanian life, as it combines local traditions with a western level of comfort. The next-door Hotel Onix offers similar amenities and services.
