Cairo Hotel Guide: Le Meridien Heliopolis

In the heart of the city's diplomatic district and within minutes of the airport, this property is only convenient for those with business in the area. Shopping and recreational pursuits are nearby, but tourists will have a long traffic-ridden ride to reach the Pyramids or Egyptian Museum. Still, the fair rates here make it popular with tourists who prefer to cruise the Nile in the evening rather than survey it from their hotel room at dusk.

The lobby is pleasantly appointed with colorful fabrics and European-style furnishings. There is little to appeal to Egyptologists here, but the genuine hospitality is a local signature.

Four restaurants offer variety, with choices ranging from French to Thai and everything in between. An outdoor venue is popular in the evenings, but it is the French brasserie that keeps late-night hours. A lobby bar, cocktail lounge and disco provide a range of beverages.

A large pool is the center of attention for many guests; here they can rid themselves of jetlag and get a bite to eat in the sun. Six meeting rooms welcome groups of up to 450, and a business center supports corporate needs. Wireless high-speed Internet access can be purchased in the public areas. Many guests appreciate the free airport shuttle although this must be arranged in advance.

Guest rooms are dated to a degree, with faded fabrics from decades past. Low-slung beds are indeed comfortable, but not attractive. Worn armchairs and cheap pine desks constitute the remainder of the furnishings. A full amenity roster is on display, though, and it includes high-speed Internet access, phones with voice mail, air conditioning, cable TVs, safes and minibars. Poorly maintained baths (due to age rather than daily care) have harsh lighting, but come with hair dryers, makeup mirrors and European toiletries. Premium rooms enjoy access to a butler (a service that sounds better than it actually is) and a private lounge in which to enjoy breakfast and evening snacks. Several suites provide more spacious living areas, but no noticeable modernization in decor.

Room service is always on call. Soundproofing is limited, but this residential neighborhood has little exterior noise (save for overpassing planes). Flight crews regularly arrive here thanks to the airport proximity, but rarely create a line. Management is difficult to locate, and staffers are often left making their own decisions. For a short stay, this place offers good value.