Recently after taking a 3 hour train ride from Vienna, we arrived in Budapest. What a difference between Eastern and Western Europe. Once we crossed the border into Hungary, it was clear that we were in another country as the rolling hills and farmlands of Austria gave way to graffiti filled walls and buildings of Hungary. Upon arriving at Le Meridien we were pleasantly surprised. We had booked our room through the fine hotels and resorts of American Express so upon checking in we were informed that we had been updated to a junior suite. The room was large although some of our windows looked out at the Kempinski hotel next door and the other the park across the street. While the hotel is in a central location, unlike the Marriott, the Sofitel or the Four Seasons, it does not look out upon the Danube. Additionally, the bathroom could use some additional lighting. Service in the hotel was decent although not outstanding. The breakfast buffet was included in our room and was mediocre. Had we had to pay the outrageous charge for it, we would have been quite disappointed and upset. Hungary is an interesting country, not quite up to speed as other european union countries, but with an interesting past. As for food in the area of the hotel, within a few blocks there are many restaurants. Try Cafe Kor and Belvarosi Lugas Etterem. We were so pleased with Belvarosi Lugas that we ate their 2 nights in a row and were not disappointed. Both are on the outskirts of the tourist zone which made them a lot more enjoyable.

1. slightly tired suite with carpet showing wear around the edges. No drapery rods to open curtains. No bellman at check in - on smoke break. 2. wonderful bathrooms with very nice showers, heated mirrors and floors. 3.desk staff were not terribly helpful. reservations mistake - that they made me fix by calling central reservations - at my expense, and it turned out to be caused by somebody in the property office. 4. while staying there a tour group ( taulk) was trying to check in, but their rooms were not ready - so there was large group of unhappy patrons in the small lobby. 5. next door to the Kempinski Hotel Corvinus - which is newer feeling and has free wi-fi, and a really nice spa. 6. Bourbon Restaurant is quite nice and has good French food, but very expensive for Budapest as were their suggested places to eat.

We have stayed at Le Meridien in Budapest by several occations and this review is based on several visits. We have only stayed in the larger deluxe rooms but also seen the superior rooms (regular rooms). The rooms are very similar with the furnishing etc. except from the deluxe rooms having more floor space. This hotel is absolutely wonderful. The deluxe rooms are huge, airy and spacious and well kept. Large marble bathrooms with seperate shower and bathtub (which is a really good thing!). The staff is extremely helpful and professional. The lobby and the hotel all though is beautiful and exclusively furnished. The bar is very comfortable with really good drinks and good service. Front desk is helpful and smiling. Room service is also efficient and excellent. The hotel must have one of the best locations in the city. Just outside the main entrance you have both the old underground system and the new underground taking you wherever you want to go. The main pedestrian street Vaci Utca is just around the corner. Lots of excvlusive stores, wonderful restaurants and everything just around the corner. The Donau is only a few minutes walk away. If you cross the square in front of the hotel you'll find Andrassy Utca (street) with all its nice shops and restaurant, and a 15 minute walk away is the lovery Lizst Ferenc ter with fancy caf?s and restaurants. We have never experienced anything bad when staying at this hotel.

I stayed at the Meridien Budapest for a couple of nights during an international conference. The location is really great - facing a central square. The welcome was very warm and competent, and getting to my room was a pleasant moment: Large beds, spacious, great bathroom. When I got to the gym and spa area, I was a bit disappointed. It was not kept up to date, and does not compare well with contemporary spa areas. In the evening, it is nice to sit in the grand bar next to the lobby. Free WLAN there, and sometimes even live music. Breakfast is really good, although not top 5 star quality. We also had a gala dinner at the hotel which was really good, but again not top 5 star quality. When checking out I learned that they would not award air miles although they are member of the "Leading Hotels of the World", and all members should do so. But Meridien, as some others, are a bit particular about this, which I find totally inappropriate given what they charge. Overall, yes, I would recommend the Meridien although there might be more special places or better deals.

After spending 2 days walking around Budapest I am confident to say that this is one of the best hotels available. The location is superb. Walking distance to the tourist sights, marvelous restaurants and bars. We literally walked everywhere, without ever requiring to jump into a taxi...and we did cover all the key sites! The check-in/out process was smooth and efficient. Once in the room, I was impressed with the modern & elegant design, the comfort of the bed and the amazing view overlooking the park. The bathroom had a bathtube separated from the shower. The gym is well appointed and the pool/sauna is a great way to finish the day. Did not have a chance to try the restaurant food, since we had better, more local options outside. I will definitely stay at this if I have a chance to visit Budapest again.