Samakov will provide towels for you no problem ,by the pool or if you ask a maid for a few spare towels ,it shouldn't be a problem.
I'm checking in samakov on the 25th jan for 6th time .
The Spa treatments are also very good at the Samokov hotel and are very reasonable. Like Ipswich we have been to this hotel a few times (we will be checking in for our 10 visit on 24th Jan!!) and although the staff may seem a little searly if you smile at them and pass the time of day with them they are very helpful , the reception staff and some of the restaurant staff now recognise us and give us a smile and all of the ski depot staff know us now and its hugs all round when we go and dump ...
The Spa treatments are also very good at the Samokov hotel and are very reasonable. Like Ipswich we have been to this hotel a few times (we will be checking in for our 10 visit on 24th Jan!!) and although the staff may seem a little searly if you smile at them and pass the time of day with them they are very helpful , the reception staff and some of the restaurant staff now recognise us and give us a smile and all of the ski depot staff know us now and its hugs all round when we go and dump our ski gear in the depot.
I'm looking forward to a break from work and the normal daily routine and come snow or shine anything is better than working for a few days.
Nade
Forgot to mention although i have never used the Samokov pool the better half has and said the water was a little on the chilly side, but fine if you swim fast
The wife used the spa when we were there ten years ago and said it was very good value. We stopped at the Ela that year.
I think it is an Eastern European trait to come across as unhappy, found it the same in the old eastern Germany and Prague but as you say if you are polite to them they are friendly.
I used the pool 12 years ago when I stayed there. I'm still trying to warm up.
It reminded me very much of the pool when we had swimming lessons in junior school. That was circa 1971 by the way so should give you an idea of what it's like assuming you've seem old photos from that era