After running away from the hostel our university (UCLA/University of CA EAP program) arranged for us upon our 3am arrival in Cairo, we opened up the Lonely Planet and got 2 rooms at the comparatively lovely Pension Roma.

The elevators are a bit dark and forboding as is the journey thru the corridor to reach the hostel. The rooms are worn but reasonably clean as are the shared facilities. The floors in our 4 bed room were hard wood and we did not have A/C. Although oppressivly hot in the daytime, at night we left our balcon open and the fan on and one could sleep comfortably.

We were a group of 7 using the same bathroom, so I can tell you that 3 people will pretty much knock out the hot water - at least per bathroom. The staff were nice enough to let us use another bathroom not designated for our room.

THe inclusive breakfast is interesting to sa the least. The "lemonade" is but cloudy water with the slightest essence of lemon - stick with the tea. Also served every morning are some dinner rolls which got progressivl harder served with a strange spreadable white cheese and fig jam - which is actuall quite good!

when i 1st arrived i thought it was averge for cairo and even maybe a bit overpriced but then i realised they have reliable hot water, a working lift, the rooms are cleaned daily and they give you toilet paper!! all these raise it far above average for cairo.. book ahead!!

From december 2005 1st to december 4th, at 78 EGP (11-12 euros) per night including a soviet breakfast, don't look any further. We had a room one floor above the reception and it was not as tidyly kept as it is on the reception floor. This place breaths a 1950' atmosphere. Bed is hard, bathroom is ok and toilets are shared. Electric mosquito killer is even provided as well as one roll of toilet paper per stay offered upon arrival, that is chic. The reception is helpfull and smily 24/7. AND HERE, YOU WON'T HEAR THE TERRIBLE CAIRO TRAFFIC. Call to reserve, as it looks always full. The location is so central, forget the breakfast and go out get something sexier, as everything is within walking distance, even drunken. A good choice for budget looking for no frills, yet charming, place to stay.

We stayed at the Pension Roma in Febuary of 2004. The room was large - w/ a double bed and a couple wicker chairs. Down the hallway were two private toliets and a bathroom w/ a shower and tub. Though clean, they were a bit old w/ a ratty bath mat. There was a nice common room with a TV. They served us rolls and tea/coffee for breakfast. Like a lot of food in Egypt - certainly nothing very tasty.

The owner spoke good English and was very helpful and friendly. We kept extending our stay and he didn't mind. This was the perfect place for get to know and fall in love w/ Cairo. It wasn't luxerious, but clean, friendly and cheap. If we ever go back, we will certainly stay here again.