Zaal Hotel in Samarkand

Terrible Experience – Worst Stay in Uzbekistan

This was by far the worst stay we had during our entire trip to Uzbekistan. Despite booking a month in advance and informing the property multiple times about our exact arrival time, we were given a very small room upon arrival against the large room we had booked. They claimed there was an issue with the bed, but it was quite clear they were overbooked and simply making excuses.

To compensate, they offered us a complimentary breakfast, for which we had clearly requested vegetarian food. Shockingly, the breakfast included chicken, which they insisted was vegetarian. The food options were also extremely limited. On the second day, they served breakfast for only one person, and after waiting for over an hour, nothing more was arranged.

While the room was clean, it had a persistent bad smell due to poor ventilation. Basic amenities like an electric kettle were missing and had to be specially requested. After all the inconvenience, they gave us a mere $5 discount, which they later nullified by adding it back as a "tourist tax"—without providing any receipt or registration slip.

Although the receptionists were polite, the property was clearly understaffed and unable to manage guest needs properly.

Overall, a very disappointing and frustrating experience. Would not recommend staying here.