Taj Talha Hotel

This old favourite should win a UNESCO award simply for its dreamy rooftop views as well as the stunning stained glass windows, which will splash rainbow coloured beams of light across your room.

The rooftop views from this hotel are noteworthy but when combined with the most tuneful Mosque in Yemen just next door, the result is pure poetry. Stay here if for no other reason than to kick back in the mafraj (guest room, often used for qat chewing sessions), and let the city skyline float over you. On a more negative note the rooms are a little dark and gloomy and the bathrooms, some of which are communal, have plumbing that seems to be constantly clogged up. Overlooking these two minor niggles this welcoming and popular hotel is unlikely to disappoint.