Manija Hostel

My stay at the Manija was a last minute choice forced on us by Mr Putins visit and the consequential chaos caused by various road closures in the city centre with taxis stuck in blocked roads! Just to be close by the railway station so we would have no difficulties in continuing our tour of Uzbekistan the following morning despite the road closures in the centre of the city. . The word "hostel" "is usually a warning bell to me which indicates dormitory type accommodation in the UK. But here the welcoming reception staff showed us to our very clean air conditioned twin bedded private room. The adjoining communal toilet and bathroom facilities usually leave a lot to desire - not here in Uzbekistan! The facilities were cleaned to a very high standard!! On each floor a very large screen SMART TV was available in the spacious lounge area and the "bar area" was converted for use by guests wishing to use the microwave or tea making facilities! Even the fridge proved a valuable bonus to keep the drinks cool! Our own twin room had a SMART TV for us to watch after a busy day seeing the sights!! Located only a few minutes taxi or tram ride direct from Samarkand Railway station this definitely is a place to be considered. Don't be put off by the distance to the famous Registan - a taxi ride from the Manija will only set you back £1.50 - £2.00 for the 15minute, 7km journey using YANDEX taxis! Staying in the central part of Samarkand is certainly more expensive than at the Manija but even the additional taxi costs are so cheap I would certainly stay here and use the Manija as my "Samarkand base" in the future when visiting Samarkand!  Congratulations staff at the Manija - well done (& thankyou!)