Banderitsa Hotel

Before we comment on the individual hotel, if you haven’t visited Bulgaria before, be prepared to meet some of the most miserable and ill mannered people from around the world. Last year we stayed at the Katerina Hotel, this hotel is very contemporary with excellent spa features. However, the food was awful and the staff miserable, ignorant and no desire to communicate in English. This year (Feb 08) we stayed at the Banderitsa, Bansko. Although modern, this hotel has a traditional decor with open log fires. Other than the odd one or two, the staff are generally friendly, polite and prepared to speak English. The food is excellent (and hot!) for Bulgaria! But don't ask for Tomato Ketchup to put on your breakfast, "You are not allowed, only available in the evening", was the comment from the waiter! The negative comments include the arrangement for 'half board' that is somewhat misleading. Each evening you collect vouchers from the reception that are used in payment for meals from the choice of three restaurants within the hotel (all offering an identical menu), the voucher value is for 20 levs per person, this will only allow for the cheapest and most basic item from the 3 courses. For a substantial meal, choice and side dish, expect to pay a further 10 levs (£4.50) per person per night. Although this may not seem a lot, for a family of 4 for 10 days can mount up on a budget that has not been allowed for; no mention is made towards this arrangement from any of the sales literature that we are aware of. The hotel also advertises live entertainment every night; this is where you really have to use your imagination! A Bulgarian singing a limited repertoire of English and American folk songs every night! If you don't like people smoking around you in a restaurant, or Mrs Mop mopping the floor around your feet at 9.30 in the evening while you’re eating, don't go there. In our opinion the positives do outweigh the negatives, the hotel is spotlessly clean, it has king size quality beds and is minutes from the gondola by regular shuttle to some fantastic modern skiing facilities. We would recommend this hotel (just), we may decide to go elsewhere next year unless the company Directors read this, arrange for some staff to attend a PR and customer service course, increase the evening meal allowance and dedicate at least one area as 'non-smoking' while you eat. Good luck.