ZEN Hostel Hong Kong Street

The location was convenient, but comfort and value disappointed me. The room was extremely small and not very comfortable, and the breakfast was very basic, mostly bread and butter with few options. For the price, there are better hotels in the same area with more space and better facilities. I arrived around 7:00 am and asked for early check-in. There were no rooms available, so I waited until about 9:30 am for one, then was charged an additional SGD 100 for early check-in.

The location is within walking distance of Chinatown and Boat Quay, and the rate was a bit high but understandable. We booked a deluxe twin room. The bathroom was small but okay, and the narrow door to the toilet/wash basin made sense. The beds were firm and fine, with one pillow each. There was a mini fridge, ironing board and iron, and housekeeping came every day to replenish the bathroom amenities. Coffee and tea were provided too. The included oriental breakfast was simple and acceptable. If you’re a fussy traveller expecting 5-star treatment at a 3-star hotel, don’t book here.

We stayed at this property twice. The location is great, the beds were comfortable, and the air conditioning was cold, but the hotel wasn’t clean. It was noticeable in the foyer, elevators, and rooms. Breakfast was really ordinary as well. It was included for our whole stay, but we only ate it once before choosing to eat out.

Everyone on staff was very friendly and accommodating. For the price, the place is well worth it if, like us, you mainly need somewhere to rest and sleep. We stayed with my 5-year-old and slept fine, though the bed didn’t feel like a true queen size and I wish it were a bit larger. I’d also have liked more variety at breakfast.