Hashtag.Capsule.Hostel

The location is handy, and they provide a towel, hair dryer, water dispenser, hot shower water, and slippers. You can keep your own footwear in the locker since you’re meant to leave your slippers outside the pod. For the price, it works if all you need is a bed and a hot shower, but don’t expect much service. My check-in went smoothly. The next day, though, a friend who wasn’t staying there wanted to use the toilet. There were no signs saying visitors couldn’t use it, and reception was empty, so my friend went in. A male staff member shouted to ask what was going on. I explained that I was staying there, showed my key card, and said my friend just needed the toilet. He rudely told me it wasn’t allowed. Another staff member then demanded 5MYR. I didn’t want a fuss, so I sent it by TNG. There had been no notice about the rule or a charge. They stopped scolding me once I’d paid, which made it seem like they were just after the 5MYR. The male staff member glared at me for the rest of my stay. There were problems with the pod too. One USB port was broken, so I could only charge one device at a time, and I was told some other pods had both ports broken. The pod safe didn’t work either. The locker was too small for carry-on luggage, so there’s an open table for bags, though I’m not sure how safe that is.

The place feels safe, clean, and homey, and the cards for the locker, sleeping capsule, and hostel add to that sense of security. It’s in a busy neighbourhood, so the area doesn’t feel secluded. I’d return on my own, but probably not with friends or family since they have high accommodation standards. For the price, I can’t complain. This was my first solo trip, and the stay felt pretty unique. I don’t expect much from service, so the uncle’s stern manner didn’t bother me. Don’t be afraid to talk to people there, though. They’re nice once you get to know them. The capsule was comfortable enough, with clean, fresh bedding. The air-conditioning outside it was turned up high, so it stayed cool inside. The mirror was smudged, but that didn’t bother me. I really dislike that they removed the option to charge your phone in the capsule overnight, though I could charge it in the open area. That space was a bit warm and dark, but well ventilated and good for working. The coffee was ordinary 3-in-1, just right for me, and served hot in a sensible amount. Hot and cold water were available too. Cups were provided, but you have to wash them.

Cleanliness was reassuring: the shared toilets were definitely clean, and the showers had hot water. Men and women have separate toilet and shower sections. It was my first stay in a capsule hotel, and I had a pleasant surprise. The owners welcomed me at check-in, explained a few rules, and showed me around. Visitors aren’t allowed for guest safety, noise should be kept down in the capsule area, and activities belong in the common area. I’d recommend it for solo travellers. There’s also a separate section set up as a room that can fit 16 people, with eight couple capsules.

I expected less, but it turned out better than I thought. The uncle and auntie people call fierce are actually kind. Sometimes you have to put yourself in someone else’s shoes to understand them. You get more than you pay for.