Almaty

The cheaper rooms in this efficient, sparkling-clean hotel on a quiet lane off Zhibek Zholy are the best value at this price level. — Lonely Planet

This hotel opposite the Green Market, used by many regional traders, is reasonable value but security is not the tightest. — Lonely Planet

An elegant hotel in the handsome former Geology Ministry building, with attractive, good-sized rooms and friendly staff. — Lonely Planet

A classy business-oriented hotel with more reasonable rates than most competitors, the Rahat boasts two good restaurants, a spa as well as a fitness centre with pool, and a summer beer garden. — Lonely Planet

With its enormous and elegantly decorated rooms, secluded oceanfront property, and a staff that waits on guests hand and foot, this golf and spa resort defines opulence. — Fodor's

One of the best in town. It's certainly the most spacious, with large rooms and a good outdoor area where a sociable atmosphere can develop. — Lonely Planet

This three-storey house on the outskirts of the city hides one of the country's best hostels. — Lonely Planet

This friendly place has earned a steady stream of guests for its pop-arty decor, helpful English-speaking staff, and its stupendous roof terrace, because it's best to observe the city from on high. — Lonely Planet

The Apple has a friendly atmosphere and welcoming English-speaking owner, and is reasonably well located one block north of Auezov metro station. — Lonely Planet

The eight rooms in this new minihotel are low-key, but absolutely spotless, and the central location makes this an ideal base from which to launch yourself into the dining/nightlife melee of Almaty. — Lonely Planet

The Saulet's bare, clean, non-AC, five-person dorms – with single beds or bunks, toilet, basin and shared showers – are an acceptable budget option. — Lonely Planet

A short walk from Almaty-II train station, this is a relatively good-value place with professional, English-speaking reception and pleasant, clean, carpeted rooms. — Lonely Planet

This hotel has excellent, huge, carpeted and well-equipped rooms with balcony, and a friendly, English-speaking reception. — Lonely Planet

Well situated facing Panfilov Park, the Otrar is a modernised Soviet establishment whose well-kept rooms are equipped with comfy beds, red carpets, polished wood furniture, balconies and bathtubs. — Lonely Planet

A very good medium-sized hotel in the heart of the city, in a modernised 1930s building with classical decor and a good Turkish/European restaurant. — Lonely Planet

The Uyut has a traditionally ornate decor, and is a welcoming and, as its name translates, cosy place to hang your head. — Lonely Planet