#4
World Class Hotel
The Opera Hotel in Kiev is absolutely a world class hotel. I had a long overnight layover in Kiev, so decided to pop into the city to stay at an actual hotel. I could not have been more impressed by the Opera.
The location is perfect, right in the upscale embassy district of Kiev. The standard room I booked was large, spotless, and beautifully appointed, and there was a handmade gingerbread Christmas tree waiting for me with a welcome note on the desk (it was Orthodox Christmas Eve when I arrived). The bathroom was also spotless, with great toiletries. The staff at the check-in desk were so sweet and welcoming, and the process was extremely simple.
I also had dinner and breakfast in the Teatro Restaurant. Again, absolutely world class. Incredible Ukrainian food for dinner with a great wine selection. The service was spectacular - they knew what I needed before I even had to ask, and each staff member was extremely polished. I returned for breakfast the next morning, and the staff were different but just as polished. The breakfast is absolutely worth the extra charge; it's one of the best I've ever had in the former Soviet Union (where they take hotel breakfasts very seriously).
Honestly not a single complaint. This will be my new go-to hotel in Kiev.