As we drove through Novhorod-Siverskiy, I couldn’t help feeling time stopped in this town ages ago. The more astonishing it was to have found the hotel of such a decent quality here. Perhaps not up to the classy 4-star in some minor issues, Slavyanskiy turned out surprisingly good and perfectly comfortable, also a great value. LOCATION, PARKING, HOTEL Located right in front of the Saviour and Transfiguration Monastery, the main attraction of Novhorod-Siverskiy. The hotel’s design echoes the one of the city railway station, which is no wonder, considering their history (both sponsored by MinTrans and the late Georgiy Kyrpa). Its contemporary appearance is in a marked contrast to the neighbouring ancient monastery (restored recently) and makes it look rather out of place. But it offers fantastic views of and the vicinity to the monastery and unbeatable quietness and tranquility (except when there are noisy banquets in the restaurant). Free spacious outdoor parking is right in front of the hotel. The floors are accessible by both stairs and elevators. The guards can help with the luggage, if needed, for there seems to be no porter. There’s a sauna, a Turkish bath and a small pool in the hotel; also a gym and a billiard. Note that all of these are at extra fee! Nothing special, but we didn’t expect even such. SUITE Our suite consisted of two rooms with rather simple (nearly cheap) interior design. But it was very spacious, clean and offered all necessary comforts. Both rooms of the suite had marvellous views over the monastery and the side view of the Desna River. There was no balcony, and we could only half-open the windows (safety protection). But it was enough to let the fresh (truly fresh!) air in. Free Internet seems to be available in the suite and apartments only, also in the restaurant. The signal was mostly good, but few days there were hiccups. The fridge with a basic mini-bar was available. There were TVs in both rooms, but the selection of channels, I believe, was poor (we didn’t watch it). The rooms are non-smoking. The very noisy A/C as well as the bathroom air vent is nearly the biggest downside I can think of. Also that the room cleaning was not regular (perhaps because we were the only guests). Other than that, perfect silence all around, and we had wonderful rest at night. The bed was large, with decent mattress and perfectly clean linen. But I disliked the synthetic pillows. BATHROOM The suite had two bathrooms, the large and small one (one - «fully equipped»; another with a toilette and a sink only). The design of both was striking. To the contrast with the room, the bathroom design looked luxurious, in marble-like white, with decent bathroom fitment. However, not without the typical flush problem (too weak). Bathrobes, slippers and the hair dryer were available as well as some basic toiletries (better bring your own). Also, perfect supply of towels. BREAKFAST, RESTAURANT The breakfast is not included into the room rate. There’s no buffet; you choose from the menu. This gives more options of cooked meals, but limits those preferring meat, cheese and/or fruits sets. Cooked meal is simple, rather home-like, but delicious. The restaurant of Slavyanskiy seems to be nearly the most popular in town, so holds banquets often. When there was a wedding, we were offered room service for the same price that we would have eaten in the restaurant. Also, we were touched they kept the restaurant open just for us on the day it was closed for the outside visitors. Prices in general (by Kyiv standards) are very appealing. Payment in the restaurant is cash only, but you can charge your room and then pay with credit card at the reception. For more info on the restaurant, please, see my separate review (in ru). SERVICE Room cleaning seems to be done by request only. Service in the restaurant is uneven, but we were lucky to be served most of the time by the really nice and friendly waitresses. Reception staff is helpful. Payment can be done both in cash and by credit card. RECOMMENDED Originally we only planned to spend a few nights here and move on, but were so pleased with the hotel, that have extended our stay. So I can surely recommend Slavyanskiy as the choice #1 for Novhorod-Siverskiy and the area, if you don’t expect an impeccable 4-star service and are fine with nice comfortable accommodation and friendly attitude.…