Argyle Hotel

The breakfast was genuinely good by American standards, and I liked the beds and shower. The hotel looks stylish, with decent amenities and services, but the little things that matter let it down. The fridge in my room never got cold, and the air conditioning wouldn’t go below 23-24°C (75°F). After a repairman checked it, the AC worked, but two mornings later the room was back up to 24°C. Opening the windows was probably more effective. Getting help with the AC took forever. The first staff member dismissed the problem and seemed to question whether I could handle the local temperature. I explained I’d already spent half a week in this part of China and had also been in Taiwan, at about the same latitude. She was very indignant. The second person was a repairman and got the unit working. There was such a strong smoke smell in the lobby that I needed a good mask to avoid gagging. Walking to the hotel can also be difficult if you approach from the wrong side of the road, especially with construction in the area. In China, tour buses get priority on the road, then cars and other vehicles, then motorcycles and bicycles, while pedestrians come last. Make room for yourself and don’t expect drivers to yield. They may honk and charge toward you. I’m saying this especially for Americans who expect right of way and get upset about it. I understand.