Sleeping Boot Hostel

After staying in hostels across Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and even Ruifang on my Taiwan travels, this was by far the worst sleep I’ve had. I’m writing at 6:00 AM after being awake since 4:00 AM, with only four miserable hours of broken sleep. The name “Sleeping Boot Hostel” feels spectacularly ironic. I’d give it 2/10, and that’s only because it has walls and a roof. The mattress was actively uncomfortable, and the sleeping area didn’t feel private. The bed frame didn’t use the whole alcove, and the curtain didn’t close around the whole bed, so the “pod” felt like a poorly screened cot. That also let in light. Even fully closed, the blackout curtains blocked virtually none of the morning sun, and the first hint of dawn woke me up. There was a very loud snorer in the dorm, which can happen in a hostel, but with no basic sound dampening it felt like I was sleeping beside his larynx. If you actually need sleep, heed this warning. Based on my extensive Taiwan hostel experience, this is the first place I’d genuinely advise other travellers to avoid until it makes serious, fundamental improvements to soundproofing and light blocking. It’s a place to keep your luggage, not rest your head.

For budget travellers looking for comfort, this is a great place. The rooms were clean, the beds comfy, and the atmosphere warm. The staff were super helpful throughout my stay, and the location made it easy to get everywhere.

The wifi signal is strong everywhere in the hostel. It feels like a home away from home, cozy, clean, and comfortable.

Close to cafes and convenience stores, and the train station is within walking distance. The host and staff were friendly and helpful. At The Sleeping Boot Hostel, Hualien, I had a comfortable bed space and hot showers, plus aircon. Highly recommended.