The Sofitel Cecil Alexandria has been a hotel since 1929. A hotel with heritage, it offers a panoramic view of the Eastern harbour, and is set in the centre of the city. This is one of the historical hotels that has never been anything except a hotel, unlike others that began as palaces or royal lodges. Some notable guests have included Agatha Christie, the Prince of Sweden, Josephine Baker, Omar Sharif, Field Marshall Montgomery, and Mohamed Ali Cassius Clay.With 83 spacious rooms, including historical suites, the hotel is small and accommodating. It has recently been refurnished and updated, and is a five star hotel. Other facilities include a fitness room with sauna and massage, a bookshop, bank, hairdresser and car rental service, as well as a complete business center.