The Shai Red Hotel - formerly Mingle in The Shai

The street noise kept us hearing cars pass all night, so this was a terrible night for sleeping. The shower water wasn’t warm enough either. The AC gave us nice cool air for about 15 minutes, then warm, moldy air for another 15. It really needs the air ducts cleaned. When we arrived, the fitted sheet had bunched up underneath the cover sheet, which wasn’t a good first impression. Then we noticed little bits of dirt here and there on the sheet.

The first two nights in my Superior room were sleepless because the ventilation blew mold in my face. They did move me, and service was generally good. The neighborhood was decent, with a good tea shop close by. I’d have given four stars, but they really hassled me over a one-hour late checkout. That felt ridiculous after I’d paid for two nights in a room that was a breathing hazard. I’m only mildly exaggerating, it was really impossible to sleep there. After that, the least the checkout desk could do was extend the courtesy of an extra hour if needed. Basic hospitality, and it might have earned them another star. Also, the cleaning staff smoke in the fire escape, so the elevator landing on the upper floors smells like a casino. If you’re sensitive, consider yourself warned.

The bedding and toilet were clean, and the hot water was reliable. My late-night check-in also went smoothly despite the language difficulties, since I’d booked online. The daytime staff member I met was pleasant and helpful. Still, for about $800 HKD a night, around $100 USD, the room didn’t feel worth it compared with an Airbnb my friends rented for a little more right next to Wan Chai. It was my first trip to Hong Kong, so those are the only two places I can compare. There was mildew and strange staining on some walls, the side of the sink, the foam padding above the toilet, the shower curtain and around peeling wallpaper. A previous guest had carved 'RANK' into the foam padding, not a welcoming sight after a long flight. The bed was hard as stone, and there was no in-room safe. Even if I needed to stay in this area, I’d look elsewhere.

The room was extremely clean and the location is great. But the duvet wasn’t nearly big enough for two people, so my husband’s feet stuck out of bed. He isn’t even tall. Honestly, I expected a little better, and that’s why I gave it three stars.