Shanghai Rock & Wood International Youth Hostel

The price was decent, and the location was okay, near a subway. We had a private room with plenty of space for two. But the internet was incredibly slow and inconvenient when trying to look up things to do in Shanghai. The hostel also felt oddly quiet and antisocial. The common areas were like a library, with everyone silently on laptops, so it’s not a good fit if you want somewhere lively to meet people. Shannon at the front desk came across as rude and seemed bothered when we spoke to her, which didn’t feel welcoming or professional. The two men working behind the bar, though, were friendly. I’d give the hostel 2/5 and wouldn’t recommend staying unless price is your main concern.

The reception and bar service were good, and the facilities include a pool table, dining room with a bar area, and a pond outside with Japanese carf fish. It’s a comfortable hostel with different room types. Our double room was spacious, had a firm mattress, and came with its own bathroom. The sound insulation is the main downside, though that wasn’t a surprise. Sometimes you can hear people in rooms above or noise from outside. I’m not sure why, but the housemaids also talk loudly in the hallway in the morning.

The hotel was very clean, the room was nice, the shower was good with constant hot water, and the staff were friendly. There are good facilities, WiFi, and laundry, and it’s well located for getting around Shanghai. Good value, too. The one bad point was the English breakfast. It was easily the worst one I’ve tried, and the cook clearly needs to learn how to make it. They should just take it off the menu.

The rooms were my only concern. There are no blinds for privacy when you’re sleeping in a crowded dorm. The hostel itself has a lovely patio, a comfortable common room, and a relaxed outdoor pavilion where people can chat in the evening after exploring. It’s a great social place.