Marriott Mena House, Cairo

Arriving at night our vehicle was stopped at the gate - security and dogs checked the vehicle. Entering the hotel our luggage was placed through scanner and we appreciate the security of the hotel. Once in our room, We were in awe - looking out at the view and were greeted by the long awaited pyramids! Breakfast was a large buffet restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and everything one could imagine. We enjoyed trying many of the local foods. We had access to the club lounge in the evening and the service was fantastic. Wine and beer was served abiut 530 pm in Club lounge along with food in the evening which was delicious. Special thanks to Chef Ahmed, who was always smiling, friendly and engaging, explaining the delicious foods each nite he had prepared during our stay. Hotel even prepared a take away breakfast box when we had to leave at 330 am. There is an ATM in hotel and a bank inside the property by the entrance to the hotel. Make sure to take your passport when you’re purchasing Egyptian pounds with your debit card.

MY wife and I (retired UK) wanted to visit Egypt to get some warm weather and spent a week at Hurghada then drove to Suez and from there to the Mena House Marriott. I first came here in 1985 and this property is actually newer with the old smaller property (the Palace) being renovated for an upmarket destination. This is a very high quality hotel with an enormous pool and views of two pyramids and good restaurants. The weather is good at this time but there is some haze mixed with pollution for those who suffer. We booked our stay using my Marriott points and Marriott has been excellent at making our stay welcome. Included as an option is access to the M-Club Executive lounge (which I used all the time) as you get excellent snacks, small meal and all drinks including alcohol. We were met by Maher after arrival and he was very helpful and interesting and in the evening Abdullah took care of us and was a great host. There is near access to the pyramids from the main gate, from where you can walk but you will attract a lot of commercial attention. Many different tours are offered by the hotel at a price but it is a good idea to book online in advance at a significant saving.

First let me say the location is optimal as it is near the Pyramid complex which is great. We did have a small view from our room. The rooms are fair size although the bathroom is smaller and a bit dated. Hotel itself seems to be recently renovated as do the hallways but not the rooms. Mattress was fair but not great. Rooms are quiet. Breakfast is decent buffet spread and you can sit outside looking at the Pyramids. Dinners at two of the recents very fair...meats way overcooked (common issue in Egypt) and just plain average (which is being kind.) So overall it is nice to be nearby but if you are expecting a 4 or 5 star hotel, this is not it. They have a long way to go.

Our room overlooked Giza pyramids across the tranquil gardens and we loved sitting on a balcony, enjoying drinks. The services were impeccable. In particular, Nagy at the M Club was very attentive and warm, helped us feel even more welcome.

Wonderful experience. Outstanding, professional, friendly staff. Concierge Christy was extraordinarily helpful, even among this most accommodating staff. Facility is beautiful, food is fabulous, it’s a very short walk to the Pyramids and even walking distance to the Sphinx and the new Cairo museum - if you have the courage to cross the few streets to get there; traffic and drivers here are insane. Thank you for a most memorable visit. And all the great breakfasts!