an amazing place. it used to be a british officer's club. it has huge ceilings and doors and various other incredible features...Michael Palin actually stayed here when filming around the world in 80 days....The rooms aren't luxurious but they're decent enought if you're backoacking. the location is incredible. bang in the middle of cairo and you're surrounded by shisha smiking cafes.

My husband and I have travelled through many parts of the world and stayed in all manner of hotels / guest houses ranging from extremely basic to top-class luxury. Although we have stayed in far more salubrious and dare I say it - comfortable hotels, the Windsor (where we stayed in 2004) remains the most memorable and quirkily charming for both of us. I do not think this hotel would suit everyone, but for those who like to truly experience the places they travel to and immerse themselves in a bit of history this place is a treat and a wonderful haven in central Cairo (which can be a tad bit over-whelming) The best part of the hotel is the lounge area where all the guests seem to gather in the late afternoon to enjoy a drink and share their tales. The rooms are certainly on the shabby side and we had two single beds instead of a double - but that didn't bother either of us and it seemed in keeping with the price we paid. Cleanliness was as good as anywhere we stayed in Egypt (we experienced much worse!) and we certainly had no problems with bed bugs or the like.

My partner and I stayed at the Windsor Hotel, simply because recommended by travel books and hotel has a bit of history attached to it. It is an old hotel with large rooms, two single beds, old fashion bathroom but working, furniture still from the 50s, but good location for Cairo. Entrance is on a small - but safe - side street.

Do not expect the comfort inn or ibis, otherwise you will be disappointed. Served breakfast - was ok - but if you go at Easter do not take the Easter colored egg they offer because they will charge you for it! Was I naive thinking they were trying to be nice! By the way, nice waitress working there. Her smile and manners did compensate for plain breakfast. One staff at front desk was a rude in trying to push us to get tour of Luxor - it was annoying, but otherwise ok.

I would recommend it to people who want to try something different with history attached to it. Also, hotel can provide shuttle to pick you at airport (even if arriving at night). We also booked in advance directly with hotel by credit card and had no problems.

We booked this hotel through Expedia because of its historical interest. When we arrived, the hotel claimed not to have a record of our booking. They sent us to their 'sister' hotel, the Lotus. Do not under any circumstances go to the Lotus - it is a dump on top of a derelict building. We felt unsafe and didn't sleep at all. Have an alternative ready in case you need it. The Windsor is otherwise a great place to stay, but has the feel of having switched to a new management that doesn't really care about maintaining the place and is seeking a quick buck.