As some of you probably know, finding reasonably-priced accommodations in Europe can be quite a challenge. Luckily, between Eric’s Starwood points and a good deal spotted months in advance, we kept the cost to $135 (~94 Euros) per night over three hotels.

Our first night in Vienna was at our favorite hotel of the three, Le Meridian. Not only did they have a complimentary mini-bar (but only one beer for two people?) and ridiculously comfy bed, but the concierge was very helpful and the location (near Karlsplatz) was right in the thick of things. It didn’t hurt that we found a cozy wine bar two blocks away.

you can see the view of the city from our room here

The best part of the bathroom was the deep claw foot tub. The worst part was the heated floors that we never figured out how to turn off. There was quite a lot of “hot-footing” while teeth-brushing! Other features included a towel warming rack, open shower with wedge drain and frosted glass walls.

not quite sure about the “stripper pole” by the tub

Our room at the Art Hotel William in Bratislava was huge – meaning Eric didn’t have to wedge himself in the corner to get a full shot of the room. The striped wood paneling details, striped tile bathroom and decor were very attractive. The location was fine, as the Old Town of Bratislava isn’t terribly large, we were able to easily walk anywhere we wanted to go. The big downside was the street noise (i.e. barking dogs, loud talkers) as we had a room overlooking the cobblestones versus one of the the interior rooms. Additionally, some idiot starting shouting around 2am which echoed off the buildings and rudely woke us both up.

ballroom dancing optional

the zebra bathroom

Vienna is apparently the land of free mini bar items because our second hotel,  Steigenberger Hotel Wein , also had a daily restocked mini bar with orange and apple juices, Römerquelle still and sparkling (prickelnd) and two Gösser beers. This room was (by far) the most cramped of our stay but the bed was comfortable, the shower had good water pressure and there was a cubby-area for our bags and a place to hang our nice clothes, so overall a good experience.  We also enjoyed a glass of wine at the hotel lounge during our stay and we found both the atmosphere and prices agreeable. The breakfast special of a latte and croissant with nutella (yum!), honey and jam was also good. The location of the hotel is also excellent, a half block from a subway stop and within a few blocks of the major shopping district and Christmas markets.

individual down comforters was a nice touch

Generally, we preferred both the concierge and the bath products at the Meridian property but the complimentary mini fridge was better stocked at the Steigenburger. We would stay at any of these properties again.