Sheraton Tel Aviv Hotel

Sheraton Tel Aviv is one of the oldest hotels on the shore. Big money was invested in order to bring the business-friendly high-rise up to speed, starting in 2015 with a full replacement of the '70s-era look of the lobby and public spaces. Warm color palettes were replaced with more modern shades of steel-blue and charcoal, contemporary art dresses the walls, and a large and colorful fresh flower arrangement greets guests as they spin through the revolving entrance door. This sizable hotel is in a constant state of renovation, which leaves alternating sections of the hotel closed during the processes. The main motivations behind these upgrades can be credited to the strict change in standards required with the Marriott brand now at the helm, and the Sheraton's clean and contemporary rooms, low visibility of wear and tear, and SPG perks do not disappoint. The hotel is kosher and sees a bulk of business travelers, as well as older travelers and a few families with kids. 

Not only is the Sheraton's location conveniently across a busy street from Frishman beach, it's also in a prime spot that allows cars and taxis to make a U-turn on the otherwise northbound-only HaYarkon Street. This makes it easier to catch taxis or be dropped off at the hotel. - Three-minute walk to Ben Yehuda Street

• Five-minute walk to the beachfront boardwalk
• Seven-minute drive to Tel Aviv Port
• Eight-minute drive to Carmel Market
• Eight-minute drive to Rabin Square
• 10-minute drive to Old Jaffa 
• 10-minute walk to Dizengoff Street
• 12-minute drive to Rothschild Boulevard
• 16-minute drive to Sarona Market

The Sheraton's 318 rooms are spread over 20 floors, with the best rooms situated on higher floors. While visible wear and tear is common in Israeli hotels, the Sheraton's rooms were in good condition with some of the least signs of wear during our visit in late 2017. Next to modern touches like big SMART TVs with satellite channels and on-screen offers, sensor-activated minibars, push-button showers, and espresso machines are dated attributes like the control panel buttons on the wall and flimsy, old telephones on their last breath. Bathrooms are stylish and contemporary, with marble travertine countertops, tile floors, and iridescent wall tiling. Thick, fluffy bathrobes, slippers, and Sea of Spa Dead Sea toiletries, plus additional amenities such as loofahs, mouthwash, and dental kits keep it feeling luxe. Deluxe Rooms feature contemporary, albeit bland, decor that's standard for chain hotels and just teetering on the edge of feeling dated. There are no real pops of color or standout decor elements like those found in the Club and Executive Club rooms. These carpeted rooms are on floors three to 11 and feature balconies with city or sea views and a queen or two twin beds. Club-level rooms knock up the style a notch and are located on floors 16 to 20, offering better balcony views that can reach from port to port. These come with extra perks like free daily bottled water and upgraded bathroom amenities. The big bonuses here are the access to the 18th-floor Club Lounge and free breakfast. Executive Club Rooms feel even snazzier with peek-a-boo windows into the bathrooms, reclining leather chairs, and stone tile floors in the bathrooms. Studio Suites have the same decor as Deluxe Rooms, but each comes with the addition of a conference-style work desk in the living room, plus an additional balcony off the bedroom. These are very spacious and feature wide tubs. 

The Sheraton doesn't skimp on features. In fact, from the mid-floor rooftop pool to the basement spa, this luxury property is almost like a self-contained village. The pool is small for a hotel of this size, but unlike most hotels in the city, it's open year-round. There are several cramped rows of loungers that can lead to congestion in the high season, as well as a poolside restaurant and bar area that is only open in the summer (food and drink can be ordered from the lobby bar when this section is closed). The spa is operated by an external company and entry to the hammam is an extra fee, unless guests have booked a treatment. This is a kosher hotel so be prepared for a large dairy buffet in the mornings served in a bright breakfast room and a meat-oriented business lunch and dinner menu from the hotel's gourmet Olive Leaf restaurant. In 2017, an outdoor patio area was opened outside the restaurant that focuses on a more casual atmosphere and younger vibe, with music and wicker lounge seating between April and November. A small private dining room is also available. Other food options include the lobby lounge bar and a nearby small dessert case. Guests that have Club Lounge access also get a small breakfast buffet, snacks during the day, and smaller dinner as well as a variety of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. The room is bright with two walls of windows and plenty of comfy seating, including out on the high-level balcony. Conference rooms are large and can be catered. Other business features include a 24-hour business center floor with computers, printing, and a set of smaller conference and meeting rooms. There's also a small Link computer area off reception, near the elevators and gift shop. Other features include free Wi-Fi, a diamond jewelry store, and 24-hour drink-only room service. The hotel also has a few activities such as wine tasting nights with a lecture, and live piano performances in the summertime.