Museum Hotel

All that have been said so far about the uniqueness of this hotel is true. My family and I felt so privileged to have spent a few days here. As we were a couple travelling with a child, the hotel recommended Kandilli (meaning candle) room which has a day bed that can also be converted into a single bed and a truly breathtaking view. It was a perfect recommendation! Our cave room had lots of small nooks where little candles were placed. When lit, the flickering candles, along with the other soft lighting in the room, gave our nights a cozy and romantic atmosphere. Dinners at Lila restaurant were memorable experiences. The list of Turkish cuisines on offer was extensive, each item came beautifully presented. Better still was the very attentive restaurant service - every one of the restaurant staff took great effort to ensure our comfort, provide food recommendations, even fuss over our child... nothing was too much trouble. They were very happy to chat with us during our meals and the following mornings during breakfasts that, at the end of the trip, we felt that we had gotten a glimpse into their own lives. However, the same cannot be said of the reception staff. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, they all looked stern and forboding, unapproachable and suspicious. An example of our interaction: Me (approaching Reception Staff behind the desk): "How much does a taxi ride cost to Goreme?" Reception Staff: "I don't know." Me: "Do you have an idea how much it normally would cost?" Reception Staff: "They run on the meter." By then another person standing nearby interjected and gave us an indicative cost estimate, which was really what I wanted to know. Shame, really... as the dreadful reception staff are a blotch to the otherwise exceptional service provided by the restaurant staff. But we didn't have much to do with the reception staff, hence didn't allow them to spoil our stay. Location wise - yes, it would've been more convenient to be located in Goreme about 10 minutes away, where there are more shops and touristy restaurants. But then Goreme town is just a taxi ride away, which, together with its Open Air Museum, is more than sufficient for an afternoon's quick visit. There is a laptop in the breakfast area that allows free access. Connection can be slow and at times erratic, though. Rise early to see the sunrise that slowly changes the hues of the resort. Have breakfast on the terraces as you watch the numerous hot air balloons float silently into the clear Cappadocian skies. A hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's mystical valleys is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and truly worth the cost.