Not so long ago the Grand Hotel Europe sat glittering in all its sparkling blue and white orientalist glory, perched lustrously atop a hill conveniently right next to the Sports Palace – really more of an exhibition centre and home tornthe annual Oil and Gas Show. These days, however, the sparkle has dulled somewhat and the Europe stands a little cracked and forlorn, dreaming of better days. The rooms, of course, are still large and the views nothing shortrnof spectacular, but the atmosphere is woefully lacking. The latest news is that the American owners have sold to an as yet unnamed Azeri group and a major refit is set to take place. No schedule for this yet, but we shall definitely be watching this particular space with great interest.