Location is the big plus for this hotel. The 4-5 flights of stairs with luggage is a negative, just be prepared. Breakfast very basic, but adequate. Room fairly large, beds a little hard, but that seems to be everywhere in Russia. Great shower, clean room, nice large windows that open onto canal area for nice views. Excellent restaurants, all close by to choose from, as well as many coffee shops. Staff wonderfully helpful, speak excellent English and offer good suggestions for sights, tours, PO box etc.