Da Lian Shi, China

Beautiful castle setting with great views, but overheating rooms in winter are a serious problem that staff won't fix. Black mold appears in bathrooms due to ventilation issues. Staff speak limited English and the executive lounge is closed.

Rooms are spacious but worn out with aging furniture, dirty carpets and curtains, and paper thin walls that let noise through. Doors malfunction and beep constantly, making sleep difficult. The basement brewpub with live music is the highlight.

Rooms are shabby and worn, but staff are genuinely kind and helpful. The hotel sits next to the train station with easy subway access and good breakfast. Stay here if you want friendly service and location over modern amenities.