From 1948 to 1967, the hotel sat directly on the border with Jordan, acting both as a strategic lookout point for the Israeli army and as a tempting target for Jordanian sharpshooters. The deluxe suites on this side of the hotel, now much in demand for their magnificent Old City views, were less desirable in those years. The hotel's clientele has changed over the years, said Robert Gabby, head concierge, who has worked at the hotel since his arrival in the country in 1951. People were more patient in the old days. Today, people expect more, they demand more, and they want it right away.
Mobile phones are now available to guests on request, along with fax machines.
And a helicopter pad sits atop the hotel roof. Renovations will continue for the next three or four years. Our style is very much an understated elegance. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced in any form without permission.