Ortachala Bus Hotel

We stayed at this hotel the first time for one night. We returned again for a two-night stay at the end of our trip because we were very happy with the hotel. This newish hotel is one floor above the Ortachala Bus Hotel though they seem to share the same staff. Location: The hotel is right at the Ortachala bus station with long distances buses going to Armenia. It is south of the city and is also convenient as a base to the airport. We negotiated a taxi to the airport for only 15 Georgian Lari. Taxi also touted for Yerevan and Baki so it would be possible to negotiate a good price for a private taxi here. Another plus is the popular restaurant right across the road (access by crossing the pedestrian bridge). Good, inexpensive food with Georgian music. They also have English menu. The dance floor became lively with opportunities to watch customers (adults and kids) doing the traditional dance. A number of marshrutka going to town (#149, #179 Rustaveli) and even to the north intercity bus station (Dibube) stop at the bus stop near the restaurant. Bus #55 goes to the old city wall. Room: Huge room with high ceiling which is also new, clean and bright. It is very good value for only 80 GEL. We returned to the hotel and found a 20% discount from a web booking site. Excellent value. As no bus departs at night, the hotel is pretty quiet which is a nice surprise. We asked for rooms not facing the main street. Staff: Some staff may not speak English but that did not cause any problem as we both understood what we try to communicate. Breakfast: If your booking include breakfast, it is best to remind the staff the night before the time you wish to have breakfast. We had to wait for 45 minutes the young lady to come back. You get a fry egg, olives, cheese, jam and bread. Wifi: Available in the room. Need to ask the staff to reboot in the mornings.