Again, I think Tripadvisor should change its rating system so that a "good" rating could be included, as this is the kind of hotel that is neither average, not very-very good. However, due to a previous not-too-good experience in a 70s-built five-star hotel in Iran, I must admit my expectations were quite low, so I was positively surprised by the Kowsar.
First of all, location is unbeatable, right in front of the stunning Si-O-Se Pol bridge in Isfahan, which becomes packed with people strolling up and down at any time of the day. Some of the rooms have fine views of the bridge.
As I wrote, the hotel is yout typical 1970s complex, but fortunately it has been renovated as to meet the requirements of modern-day accomodation, so it now has a completely adequate feeling to it.
Rooms are very large. Note, though, that if you're travelling with your couple (like I did) you have to specifically ask for a king-size bed or otherwise you'll be given two individual beds and you'll have a hard time getting a king-size one from the guys in the front desk. Other than that, like I said the rooms are large, have balconies and are very well-appointed and cared for. The toilet is very good, too, although getting into the shower is equal to climbing the Everest.
Facilities include free wi-fi, a business center, a very nice teahouse that serves excellent Ash-e Reshte in the afternoons, a couple of restaurants and a very nice cafe with tasty ice-creams, milkshakes and cakes, very popular with locals. Breakfast, on the other hand, could definitely be more varied.
Staff is nice and polite, although their command of English was not as good as that of the staff in the previous places we had stayed in.
So, this is a recommendable hotel. But then again, it is simply "good", not very good nor average.
- Kowsar Hotel Esfahan
