Marriott Hotel
This four-star hotel in the city center is located near the U.S. Consulate. As of 2009, room rates started at $145. The Marriott offers complimentary breakfast and coffee. There is Wi-Fi and wired connections in the rooms as well as the lobby, and the front desk can arrange a variety of outdoor activities for you. Indoor and outdoor pools, a health club, spa, sauna and tennis courts are on site, while horseback riding and sailing opportunities are not far from the hotel.
Avari Beach Luxury Hotel
The three-star Beach Luxury's creek-side location and lower rates set this hotel apart from the rest. Located west of the center, this hotel is perfect for travelers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of this busy port city. In 2009, rates started at just $65 for rooms offering views of green palm trees and the Arabian Sea. Beach Luxury boasts a gym, outdoor pool, "floating restaurant" and sun deck. Rooms have mini-fridges and there is Wi-Fi on some floors.
Pearl Continental Hotel
Karachi's five-star hotel is located in the city center. Affectionately known as the "PC" by locals, it offers Wi-Fi, a spa and health cub and an array of restaurants, including Sakura (Japanese) and Royal Elephant (Thai). Rooms tend to fill up fast, so don't expect a discount on the $200 and up rates.
Avari Towers
This 20-story building boasts 236 rooms starting at rates of $150 a night. Guests enjoy a complimentary mini-bar, satellite TV, safe-deposit boxes and stunning views of the city from the higher floors. A garden-side pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and tennis courts are on site.
Tip: Beaches
Clifton Beach, located in a posh suburb, is a good place to ride camels or horses along the coast, but it's often busy and isn't particularly good for swimming. Sandspit is quieter beach popular with families. It tends to be crowded on holidays and Sundays. If you prefer peace and quiet to hawkers offering jet-ski rides, head along the coast to Paradise Point, Hawkes Bay or French Beach. All of the hotels listed provide car rental services, and in Pakistan car rental typically includes a chauffeur.
