 Perhaps one of the most unique hotels in the whole of the Middle East, the American Colony is one of Jerusalem’s gems and the atmosphere and surroundings it offers its guests is quite unrivaled
Starting off as a colony of Christian Americans, the American Colony evolved into a place of luxury accommodation way back at the start of the 20th century. The hotel has established its style and reputation along the years and has a long list of celebrity guests that could easily rival if not shame the list which the King David Hotel boasts. Among the many actors, writers and politicians, the hotel even mentions the Empress of Ethiopia on the long list of glamorous guests.
In accordance with the Middle Eastern location and the hotel's long history, the American Colony boasts a distinctively Arabian interior, with regional ethnic color schemes and styles. On the other hand, the hotel is also very European in character, a feature very apparent in the service, atmosphere and elaborate afternoon tea served in the famous green courtyard (3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. daily), which gives a truly inimitable sense of serenity.
The hotel’s café and bar restaurants offer such excellent cuisine that they attract many diners who are not staying in the hotel. This is of course widely accepted around the world, but in Israel hotel restaurants tend to be less than exceptional (largely due to kosher restrictions and an outdated culinary perspective) and dining is usually better enjoyed outside the hotel’s premises. At any rate, both the Arabesque and Val’s Brasserie Lounge are exceptions to this rule and offer highly regarded fare prepared by talented chefs. The place is especially popular with foreigners, particularly with journalists from around the world and expats. Situated on the edge of East Jerusalem, the hotel may be located a little further from major attractions than the other hotels in this category, but still offers good access, especially to the entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem through the Damascus Gate.
 In a sentence: A unique, tasteful and highly regarded hotel that has established an impeccable reputation over the past 120 years. Lovely not only for a stay in one of its lush rooms or suites, but also for meals and drinks.
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23 Nablus Road, Jerusalem
+972-(0)2-627-9777
Rooms: 86
Price range: $350-900
Hotel Website
reserve@amcol.co.il
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Machne Yehuda Market
