Hôtel De L'Europe
Sheth. Sorabji Kharas’ company opened a hotel on The Crescent in Steamer Point named “Aden Hotel” in 1841. On 9 November 1841, Queen Victoria gave birth to the heir apparent, the Prince of Wales, and in commemoration of that auspicious day, the name Aden Hotel was changed to “The Prince of Wales Hotel.”
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The Prince of Wales Hotel, was one of the principal hotels in Steamer Point, along with the Crescent Hotel, Grand Hotel De L'Univers and Rock Hotel.
The landmark property underwent several name-changes throughout it's long and colourful history. We know that when visited in 1858 by Sir William Russell it was known as the Prince of Wales Hotel. It would appear it was closed later in 1858, possibly for refurbishing, to re-open later as the Hôtel De L'Europe.
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In 1877 from the story of Mrs Brassey's visit we know it was still called the Hôtel De L'Europe. Later it was to be changed to The Marina Hotel.
From a report by Captain F.M. Hunter in 1877 we know that this hotel and the Grand Hotel De L'Univers at the far end (eastern end) of The Crescent were at that time both operated by Frenchmen.
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In 1905 Benghiat (of postcard fame) wrote to the Residency to complain that some soldiers had entered the Hôtel De L'Europe (which he appears to have owned or at least leased) with passengers off ships and were being bought alcoholic drinks. His licence did not allow him to serve soldiers.
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Saline bint Sa’id, later known as Madame Ruete, the daughter of Sultan Sa’id bin Sultan, Ruler of Oman and Zanzibar spent 5 days at The Hôtel De L'Europe in July 1885 enroute to Zanzibar.
Those who collect Aden postcards will notice the Turkish Shop which was run by I. Benghiat. Probably around 1915, and certainly when the hotel had changed name to Marina Hotel, the shop had become that of M. Yahooda's Universal Bazaar and to the left of the building was The Star Pharmacy.
