76%
Here's my review for: Temple Of heaven International Youth Hostel in Beijing, China, Asia
No.7 Changqiyuan, Chongwen district. [html] The hotel is NOT next to a subway station, or even within quick walking distance (the closest station, Chongwenmen, is about thirty minutes by fleet foot); however, buses are frequent and convenient (use bus #39, 812, or 814 to and from the subway stop, including the Pearl Market in between; service ends around 8pm). Despite what the hostelworld.com site says, this hostel-hotel DOES NOT take credit cards, and will probably not honor your online reservation fee; on the other hand, you can just call them and reserve for free the room you want for less money than this site lists; the staff speak some English, but if you can speak some Chinese you'll be better off. There is a travel desk at the hotel which will book train or flight tickets for you for a 30RMB fee per ticket; they are quick, helpful and honest. Laundry is free and self-serve (three machines), BYO-detergent, but no dryers (this is normal); there is a grocery nearby where you can buy detergent, softner, and even bleach; if this isn't your style, then there is a laundry store about a block away that the staff can point you to that will clean your clothes for you (2-day normal turn around). The rooms are clean and basic; hot water in the morning and the evening, but it's off by about 10am and on again by about 3pm, so shower early (or late) if you can; our rooms were cleaned everyday to shining perfection, and the air-conditioning was lovely; the hotel is very quiet at night, and nearly smoke-free, which is nice if you've gotten used to living in NYC, LA, or Napoli. Bottom line: a solid place, but we're ready for something a bit closer to things (and willing to pay the difference); if we weren't, we'd stay here again. Don't come here to find your new European hostel travel buddy; do come here if you want to avoid that same drunk crowd. PS: there's a police station on the 2nd floor, so it's extra safe.
Patrick W, from USA ~ Oct 8 2006
46%
Finding it was difficult, front desk staff didn't speak much English, place was too quiet and mostly filled with Chinese people. Cafe on 5th floor ok and free internet nice. Location is good for Temple of Heaven but not for anything else. It was clean but tv, hot water were not consistent. Overall ok, but nothing special or interesting.
Kristen, from USA ~ May 8 2006
