Lotus Hotel, 12 Tala’at Harb St. (tel. 75 06 27 or 75 09 66, fax 92 16 21), 1 block from Tahrir Sq. Professional service, large rooms, hardwood floors, big beds, and clean bathrooms greet the frazzled sojourner. Restaurant, bar, and, coming soon, a solarium. But you pay for comfort: the prices, though negotiable, are due to rise. Singles LE40, with shower and A/C LE50. Doubles LE52, with shower and A/C LE65. Hot water 6-9am and 6-9pm. Major credit cards accepted. Montana Hotel, 25 Sharif St., 7th flr. (tel. 392 8608 or 392 6264, international 393 6025), 2 blocks south of Adly St. Attentive and organized employees keep spotless halls and clean bathrooms, but dim and dingy rooms, despite fans and natty internal phones. Singles IE27, with bath LE37. Doubles LE45, with bath and A/C LE53. Montana?