Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto

The room was cleaned every day, which was a nice surprise. But housekeeping also messed with the thermostat daily: usually they switched it off, and on the last day they set it to 75 degrees. I woke up in the middle of the night to change it. They rinsed the glasses and put them back, too. I found yesterday's milk still in my supposedly clean glass. Gross. The old, soft mattress wasn't quite lumpy yet, but it seemed headed that way. I may even have slept on the same one five years ago. I first stayed here when it opened about five years ago and had been looking forward to coming back. The business practices left a bad impression. They said I'd get 5% “cash back” from the stay deposited into my bank account, which seemed to me like a way to take money from my employer and give it to me. I was concerned about how to return it. Update: despite my giving them my banking details, they never paid the cash back. There was also an undisclosed 4.25% “living wage” surcharge on the bill. I don't believe that quite substantial amount goes toward the lowest-paid employees' salaries. An elevator picture says bicycles are available to guests, but the bikes are “gBikes,” owned by Google and for Google employees. That felt deceptive. I'll try hard not to come back.

The room's coffee maker was clean, and the coffee was quite good. We also drove an electric car and appreciated that charging was complimentary. Our room was neat, clean, and modern, with a fresh, not overpowering smell in both the room and hallway. The spa room was excellent. The front desk staff greeted us warmly and offered complimentary drinks, which was a nice welcome. We felt very well looked after at Shashi, would definitely return, and have recommended it to family.

The location is convenient and quiet, close to major tech hubs while still feeling peaceful. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and upscale without being pretentious. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and clean, and the modern, stylish design shows attention to detail throughout the property. Staff were professional, friendly, and helpful when needed. Shashi Hotel made for a high-quality stay, and I'd happily return and recommend it.

The only reason I'd consider returning to Shashi is its proximity to the Google campus. I've stayed several times, and the same room problems keep coming up. Rooms have visible dust, mold, water stains, scuffs, and general wear. Both rooms I've stayed in had an odd cooking oil smell, like someone had recently been frying food; the hallways didn't smell that way. The smart lights flickered continuously whenever I turned them on. With paper thin walls and no noise insulation, I could hear conversations, TV, and whatever else was happening next door. Is it a five star hotel? In my opinion, no. I've found nearby hotels at similar rates with much better kept rooms. If room condition matters to you, avoid Shashi.