Vibrant Hostel

The room was basic, but it was just what we'd paid for over two nights. A huge shopping mall is right next door, which is handy if you've forgotten something. The only annoying part was the lack of soundproofing. The woman at reception was kind and very helpful, and gave us lots of good ideas for places to visit and things to do.

Finding Vibrant hostel is still a bit of a hunt, even though I've stayed before. The sign and staircase up to the first-floor check-in are easy to miss. If you're getting a grab, wait somewhere more visible, and ask reception for directions. Once you get there, though, food, shops and restaurants are all within walking distance. The reception staff are friendly, professional and well informed. Check-in is quick, and checking out is simple: leave the key in the room, lock the door and go. No deposit hassle or waiting around for someone to check the room. I slept really well in my private room. It was sparkling clean, with soft sheets, a comfy pillow and a firm mattress. The queen bed was great, and the reading lights are a nice touch. With the lights off, the room gets completely dark. I also enjoyed the shared spaces. The living room was quiet, and people staying there were considerate. There were mostly women while I was there. They provide hot water, Jacob biscuits, free aik cheong coffee and breakfast. I even took a packet of Julie's peanut butter sandwich biscuits with me. The shared bathroom worked well for me. The shower has a smart spot to hang clothes where the curtain keeps them dry, the hot water works, and there's a big shared bottle of pomelo shampoo. I found it more relaxing than trying to figure out fancy bathroom fixtures. This budget hostel beats the luxury of a five-star hotel for me. It's quiet and comfortable, and I like the motivational signs on the walls. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” I'll be stepping into vibrant hostel again.

After reading the reviews, I was excited to find this place, but spent an hour in the heat and humidity trying to locate it. There are no signs, and the Google Maps photos are six years old. At least now I know quite a few of the staircases around Time Square.

It's about a 20-minute walk from the town centre. The rooms are okay and clean, and the other facilities are fine, but the showers and toilets could use some work. The toilet doors don't close properly.