Rocco Forte's Hotel Astoria, Saint Petersburg

Pretty nice place! The staff was nice as well! If you want to save some money on this hotel make sure to book it at SweetHotelDeals. N e t I got a whole night for free by booking it there

Our first visit to the Astoria in December 2005 was so wonderful that we decided to return in 2007. We requested a room with a view of St Isaac's cathedral and were assured by our travel agent that we would get one and that we had paid for the correct category. On arrival, however, the receptionists allocated a room with a view over Bolshaya Morskaya Street on the 7th floor. We pointed out that our voucher specified a room with a cathedral view; the receptionist disputed the fact. Her manner was decidedly unhelpful and at times hostile both then and throughout our seven day stay. Another receptionist, whose face appeared to be carved in stone, was most offhand. Only when we checked out did we meet a receptionist who was very helpful and showed some charm. It is fair to say that in general the reception staff had no concept of their role as understood in Western Europe. Elsewhere in the hotel, particularly the Davidoff Restaurant, the staff were unfailingly helpful, friendly and courteous. We noticed restaurant staff deal skilfully with guests complaining about matters which seemed insignificant.

The location was wonderful, right in the middle of everything. Beautiful place to stay. We were there in June of '01 during white nights. Such a great place to stay any time of year.

This hotel is wonderful. I highly recommend it to anyone staying in St. Petersburg. It's located in a great location, close proximity to many things. And the hotel and the staff are excellent.