We have reviewed many chain hotels in our previous inspections, now it is the time for a non-chain property in the capital of Latvia, the city of Riga. The Riga Islande Hotel is located on the Kipsala Island quite close to the old town. The location is perfect for tourists as you can even walk to the old town.

• Where: Riga, Latvia
• What: hotel inspection
• Hotel character: budget hotels
• When: autumn 2017

The hotel has various options of the transfer services, which is extremely convenient for travellers without cars. The price list is presented on the website. One very good advantage is the website, which is really customer-friendly, as you can find all the necessary information easily.

Hotel address: Kipsalas, Riga, LV – 1048, Latvia.

Arriving to the hotel by car is an easy option; you get free parking with security. The hotel is easy to find and there is a shopping mall next to the building.

The spacious lobby leads you to the reception desk with friendly staff. I should mention that the check-in went smoothly and quite fast; all the staff members spoke fluent English and Russian in addition to their mother-tongue, Latvian. Upon arrival guests get one free drink voucher, which is for a non-alcoholic drink. I personally recommend a cup of coffee they offer at the bar. The bartender is a very polite and talkative person, who makes the experience of your stay really enjoyable.

The hall leading to the rooms is wide enough and nice looking. What comes to the rooms, they are different depending on a chosen option. I decided to focus on a simple option affordable by majority of travellers. The standard room is not too big, but it is good enough as it has a very good bathroom, TV with a choice of TV-channels in many languages, and a minibar. Unfortunately, there was no safe (strongbox) in the room. The bed was fitting just one person (if it is a single room), but you have chairs and a table.

There is a steam room, sauna, and jacuzzi available for guests. They are on the upper floor, which gives you a really nice view. On the same floor there is a restaurant with a really interesting design. The menu is teasing you with lots of options, but regardless what you choose, try the Latvian kvass, a very tasty drink.

As for breakfast, it is included, and I should say the choice is very good. It is different from other countries as it includes a few items specific for Latvia only, as it is national food. The restaurant on the first floor is meant mainly for breakfast and various events in the evening. It is a nice-looking area of the hotel.

To sum up, the stay at Riga Islande Hotel was enjoyable and exceeded expectations, especially taking into consideration reasonable price level. Additionally, there are lots of other activities available at the premises of the hotel, but I decided to focus on the most needed ones, which are expected by the majority of guests.

Hotel Contact Information: Riga Islande Hotel website.