Earth & People Hotel & Spa

This hotel is characterized by its extensive SPA facilities, which, despite mixed feedback, are a significant draw for many guests. Its underground parking is consistently praised as a convenient and secure amenity. The hotel caters well to travelers with a car seeking a base outside the city center, and its large rooms, including apartment-style options, can accommodate families or groups. While some aspects of the hotel are well-regarded, guests should be aware of potential inconsistencies in room cleanliness and facility functionality. To ensure a comfortable stay, it is advisable to confirm the operational status of specific amenities, particularly within the wellness area, and to manage expectations regarding room maintenance.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a notable SPA center that includes a swimming pool, various saunas (Finnish, herbal, infrared), a steam room, and a relaxation area. While many guests appreciate the range of options and find the spa clean and well-equipped, a significant number report issues such as the hot tub or jacuzzi not working, the steam room being broken, or saunas not reaching adequate temperatures. The fitness center is frequently mentioned as being closed or under repair. Wi-Fi connectivity in rooms is inconsistent, with some guests experiencing very poor or non-existent service. The elevators are often described as slow, confusing, or malfunctioning, leading to frustrating wait times and navigation challenges within the building.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Room cleanliness and comfort receive highly mixed, often negative, feedback. Many guests report dirty rooms, with prevalent stained carpets, dust, and cobwebs. Issues like peeling walls, broken fixtures (curtains, door handles, TV stands), and mold in bathrooms are frequently cited. Some guests found their beds comfortable, while others experienced uncomfortable mattresses or twin beds that slipped apart. Noise levels are a concern for some, with reports of disturbances from other guests, the main road, or even early morning restaurant activity. In-room amenities are often lacking, with empty mini-bars and the absence of expected items like bathrobes or slippers unless specifically requested.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast service, typically a buffet on the top floor, garners varied reviews. Many guests praise the breakfast variety, noting options such as traditional Bulgarian items, croissants, fresh fruit, and good quality coffee from the coffee machines. The panoramic views from the breakfast restaurant are consistently highlighted as a positive aspect. However, some guests find the breakfast offerings basic or monotonous, and there are reports of dirty glasses or food running out quickly. The main restaurant is generally only open for breakfast, with limited or no options for lunch or dinner, and the bar area can be understaffed or not fully operational.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is described as being outside the immediate city center, making it less ideal for those relying solely on walking to attractions. However, it is conveniently situated near a main road, offering good access for travelers with a car. Public transportation options, such as the metro or light rail, are available but may require a walk. A significant advantage is the free underground parking, which is widely appreciated for its security and ease of use. While some guests find the surrounding area to be somewhat run-down or deserted, others note the proximity to shops, cafes, and specific venues like Arena Sofia.

Staff & Service
Feedback on staff & service is notably mixed. Many guests commend the friendly staff, highlighting their helpfulness, politeness, and attentiveness, particularly at the reception and during breakfast. Instances of quick check-in and staff accommodating requests, such as room changes or providing extra amenities, are reported. However, a considerable number of reviews describe staff as rude, uncommunicative, or unresponsive, with some guests feeling that staff pretended not to understand English when complaints were raised. Issues with housekeeping not cleaning rooms as requested are also common, and the hotel is frequently described as being understaffed, leading to delays and a perceived lack of overall service quality.

Additional Information
The hotel's unique and often confusing building design, featuring multiple wings and elevators, is a recurring point of discussion, with some guests finding it disorienting. There is significant evidence of ongoing construction and renovation in various parts of the hotel, which can impact guest experience and the availability of certain facilities. A notable and unusual aspect is the hotel's shared premises with a hospital, which some guests find unsettling. Many reviews mention persistent air conditioning issues, with rooms often being too warm and temperature controls ineffective. The hotel frequently appears understaffed, particularly at the reception and in the spa area, leading to service delays. Some rooms are apartment-style, offering kitchenettes, though these often lack basic utensils.