Lonely Planet Review

In a ramshackle old house on a leafy alley, Al-Haramain is a long-standing backpacker favourite. While the amenities are basic, the hotel goes a long way in making up for them with friendly reception staff, a long list of services, and public spaces that encourage chilling out.

Ok, so the bedrooms may be austere and the mattresses slim, but the old-fashioned iron beds have character, the sheets are spotless, and the light-filled high ceiling rooms are lovely when there's a breeze. The public spaces are also charming in a tumbledown manner - covered courtyard and living areas with comfy armchairs and books scattered about, and terrace and courtyard overlooking city buildings. When they're not exploring the Old City, most travellers hang out here and don't seem to mind the paucity of bathroom facilities. Besides, the management makes up for it with services that include complimentary tea/coffee, luggage storage, airport pick-ups, visiting doctor, and Arabic lessons. The shortcomings of this old favourite are being addressed, with plans for a new kitchen, second courtyard, and eventually, better bathrooms and toilets.