Central Plaza - Zurich, Switzerland     

I travel a lot and spend about 60 nights a year in hotels around the world. And this is probably the worst hotel I have ever stayed at. The rooms are small. As of July 2008, the air conditioning was not working and if the windows were opened, it was so noisy outside as to prevent any sleep. And early in the morning, there are the building works next door. So you go down to breakfast. The management here have portion and cost control down to a fine art. There is very little choice - no buffet here! If you order the continental breakfast, there is no choice of yogurt - no low fat, no choice of flavour..... you are given whatever the server brings you. And ... wait for it... the chef is unable to cook an egg!! For two days running (and I use the term advisedly...) the boiled eggs were actually raw in the middle. Now I don't know about you, but I don't want salmonella on my vacation.... And in the rooms, make sure you can manage on one tiny circle of soap between two of you; and don't throw away the shower cap as you won't get another one.... This is supposed to be a four star hotel. My very strong advice is to look elsewhere. The St Gotthard is OK - not great, but certainly much better than this.

I stayed here for three nights on business recently. Good hotel, good staff & great location. Opposite the tram & rail stations & close to all the shops. Rooms are a little on the tiny side but they are fine; clean & adequate. Free apples on each floor & breakfast is great - lots of choice & staff try hard to get you what you need! The car park is underground, very close to the hotel. Getting in & out can be ''exciting' if you have anything other than a small car. Be prepared for slow & careful parking!