The family run Brown Hotel is located in “Old Astana”, near many restaurants and coffee shops. Most of the affordable hotels are located here. This hotel represents excellent value in expensive Astana. The medium size rooms are spacious and very clean, with a fridge and TV. The TV does not receive any English stations, but this is common in Kazakhstan and you’re really not here to watch TV. The large breakfast is excellent, consisting of a different main dish everyday along with juice, tea or coffee and fruit. While not everyone speaks English, they try very hard to communicate. The owner’s son does speak good English. He is both really helpful and friendly. In fact, all the staff were both helpful and very accommodating. I was given early check in after arriving on the train from Almaty. Overall, this hotel is your best choice for price, rooms, service and location in Astana.