City Central International Hostel is a large, institution-like hostel.
The Location
It is a bit far from the city centre and the most convenient way to find it is by taxi, but make sure you keep the receipt in case you get ripped off on the price of the ride, as this is quite common. There is also a subway station close by, approximately ten minutes' walk.
Rooms and Bathrooms
This place is a large building with many floors and many rooms. It is very clean, and looks chic and modern. It is spotless clean in the rooms and bathrooms. There are lockers and sometimes a desk and a chair in the dorms. Most rooms have windows. The beds are quite comfortable. The bathrooms are at the end of the corridor and might be a bit overcrowded when the place is full, but the showers are nice and powerful with warm water.
Common Spaces
There is a large reception area with sofas and computers with free internet. There is also a phone for long-distance calls. The reception staff can help you out with directions, maps, and recommend places to visit. They are also the ones who can help you complain if you get ripped off by the taxi when you arrive. Next to the reception lounge, there is a dining hall/bar, which is also where breakfast is served. Breakfast is a mix of Chinese and continental food and is fairly tasty.
Summary
This is very much a big place where you can meet lots of different people, but it doesn't have much character. On the other hand, it is comfortable, modern, and clean; and you can easily get around Shanghai with the nearby metro or taxis.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
May 2009
Location/Contact
