Choosing accommodation in St P & Moscow was the hardest part of my cross-Europe trip. I LIKE hostels but I also like to know that there are plenty of shared facilites. From my research it seemed that all the cheap end options had only one loo for a lot of people, so I was chuffed to find the Zimmer Nice with its 2 showers and 2 loos. I booked and I wasn't disappointed - a great place. The loos and showers may be shared between 6 rooms (c. 20 people) but I never had to wait for either. They also have a twin room with ensuite .

Space is tight in the rooms/shower stalls/loos - but fine if you are not an oversized person. There is a small kitchen with a TV, kettle, microwave, and table and chairs for socialising . There's a free internet terminal. Both the women on duty during my stay were friendly , helpful as far as they could be, and spoke English. There was fresh linen (towel included); the windows opened; the flat was clean and well cared for. Just don't be put off by the stairwell approach (old, dingy and, yes, smelly).

But the big plus is LOCATION. It is only a 10 minute walk to the Hermitage and the River. Bus right outside the door goes as close to Moscow Railway Stn as you can get. And another one goes to the Mariiinsky.

I also stayed at the International Youth Hostel and will post a review of that later.