M1 Hotel

This place looks good in the pictures, which I think were taken when it was brand new. Now it seems run-down, more like a hostel hotel to me. The room walls were peeling all over, there was a damp smell, and I saw what might have been mold. The beds were bad, and the towels were damp, as if they hadn’t been washed. There’s no complimentary water or toiletries, including soap, shower caps, shampoo or Q tip. I was surprised I hadn’t seen any coach roaches yet, maybe because of the time of year. A shop building Coffins a few doors away is an unpleasant sight when you’re older and on vacation. I rate the hotel, staff and ownership poorly.

The convenient location puts shopping, dining and public transport within easy reach. M1 Hotel has a cozy interior and a simple, comfortable atmosphere that made for a relaxing stay in the heart of the city.

The room wasn’t very clean, the TV didn’t work, and there was no toiletries kit.

The location is a plus, with M1 Hotel right by Exit C of Yau Ma Tei station, around a 3-5 minute walk to the MTR. There are lots of places to eat nearby, including Red Tea Cafe, and the night market is close too. But the service and hygiene issues really hurt the stay. We noticed small rat bite marks on the paper bag holding souvenirs and snacks in our room, which was concerning and unhygienic. After cleaning, we came back at 9PM to find the room door unlocked, and were very worried about our belongings. I’m not sure whether Hong Kong's new Eco-Responsibility Law, which means no free disposable toiletries or bottled water in rooms, explains some of the service problems. There was no daily housekeeping, and we were told cleaning could only be requested on the fourth day. Basic toiletries and fresh towels also weren’t provided unless we specifically asked. Some reception staff were dismissive and had limited English, making communication frustrating. There’s a funeral parlor directly below the hotel, which made walking around at night unsettling. We visited during Golden Week, when the hotel was packed and fully booked, and that might account for the poor service, but it’s no excuse for the lack of hospitality. Guests still deserve proper service in a busy season, especially at prices nearly on par with a 2- to 3-star hotel.