Highlights
- Rich history dating back to the late 1800s.
- Luxurious and uniquely designed rooms.
- Pleasant outdoor areas in the property.
- Interesting mix of frequenting guests.
Experience
The American Colony Hotel has a history that incredibly goes back to the late nineteenth century. Few hotels in the area can claim such a long-standing stake in the community. The charitable hospitality of founders Horatio and Anna Spafford extended to all neighbors in Jerusalem regardless of religion or culture. Eventually this hospitality spread to visiting international travelers who preferred more western accommodations over the typical Turkish inns of the area.
The hotel has endured the tumultuous times in Jerusalem by staying neutral and providing a comfortable environment for Jews and Arabs to meet peacefully. The American Colony Hotel has now became a favorite for international journalists, UN officers, and diplomats.
Walking through the hotel gates I found a community environment within the walls. Security welcomed me and I had a speedy check in at the reception.
I stayed in a Junior Suite with a terrace overlooking the pool. It’s a large room with original painted wooden ceilings in the Main House. The original owner of the hotel’s buildings was a Pasha and the Junior Suites were rooms built for his wives.
The black and white tiled bathroom with a stand alone tub was a highlight and classy design. A separate shower was across sink area.
The bed was centered in the room with a seating area in front of it facing the TV and cabinet with an iPod dock. Next to the cabinet was the work station desk. Across the entrance of the room was the stairs to go up to the private terrace.
Rooms vary from the simple and elegant Standard Room to the famous Room No. 6 which was originally built by the Pasha for his beloved fourth wife. All rooms enjoy complimentary wireless or corded internet, bathrobes, slippers, electronic safe, and flat screen TV.
The pool area is a recent addition to The American Colony Hotel. Constructed with Jerusalem stone and lined with Italian glass tile, the pool is truly an oasis and complements the lush gardens that surround the hotel’s buildings.
The multiple buildings that make up The American Colony Hotel are joined by the multiple gardens guests can meander through or stop for drinks and appetizers. There are shops and even a Palestine Heritage Museum within the walls.
The famous Summer Bar is nestled in the Palm House Garden where secluded seating areas are aplenty for quiet conversation. In the evenings you will find journalists talking about their latest story.
The East House Garden was planted by the founders and has since been converted into an edible garden. The hotel’s chef even selects his herbs daily from this garden ensuring that every dish is fresh.
The main dining area of the hotel is The Arabesque. The menu includes Middle Eastern and International cuisine that pair beautifully with the selection of international and local wines stored in the cellar. The heart of the American Colony Hotel is The Courtyard outdoor restaurant. The area is shaded by mulberry trees and has hosted many famous guests over the years. Another outdoor restaurant is The Terrace Café which is an ideal place to pause during a day full of sightseeing and shopping in the local markets.
Service throughout is professional as expected, from the front desk to servers in the restaurants.
The American Colony Hotel offers guests one of the best options for a stay in Jerusalem. The well earned reputation for being a peaceful meeting place makes this a natural choice for international travelers. The hotel gives travelers the unique opportunity to stay in a historic building that is also modern and luxurious. I would recommend The American Colony Hotel to any history buff looking for a hotel experience as unique as Jerusalem itself.
Contact
The American Colony Hotel
Address: 1 Louis Vincent Street, Jerusalem, Israel
Telephone: + 972 2 627 9777
Website: http://www.americancolony.com
Email: reserv@amcol.co.il