Shanghai's HOTTEST Hotel: Ji Hotel Near Wuwei Dong Rd Metro!
Ji Hotel Near Wuwei Dong Rd Metro: My Shanghai Sojourn (and a Few Mishaps)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I just returned from a Shanghai adventure, and let me tell you, the Ji Hotel near Wuwei Dong Rd Metro… well, it's an experience, to say the least. I'm here to spill the (oolong) tea, warts and all. Let's dive in, shall we?
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (Literally)
First things first: getting there. The whole "near Wuwei Dong Rd Metro" thing is mostly true. You'll definitely be hoofing it a bit, especially if you're hauling luggage. Accessibility-wise, the hotel claims to have facilities for disabled guests, which is something. But, let's be real, I didn't personally test the ramps with a wheelchair. So, take that with a grain of salt. The elevator was blessedly present and functional, which is a win in my book.
My Room: A Sanctuary (and a Mild Panic Attack)
Okay, the room itself was… decent. "Available in all rooms" is technically right. I had my air conditioning blasting like a jet engine after a long flight, thank God, and I'm pretty sure I counted about 50 different light switches (a slight exaggeration, but still). The Wi-Fi [free] was a godsend, because, duh, I need to be a digital nomad for my job. I had Internet access – wireless, which, let's be honest, saved my life, and Internet access – LAN (that’s like, wired access, right?).
But the real kicker? Blackout curtains! YES! After battling jet lag, I finally felt like I could sleep. And my extra-long bed was just the right thing! Although, like, who designed the layout? The seating area felt a bit… awkwardly placed. It's like they just threw furniture in there and hoped for the best. Also, I loved my complimentary tea and free bottled water, especially since my stomach took a bit of time getting used to Shanghai water.
My absolute favorite little thing about the room was the socket near the bed. You'd be surprised how rare that is. (I mean, I'm using it right now!). Wake-up service worked perfectly. Although my anxiety got the better of me, and I ended up being awake 30 minutes before the alarm anyway.
Cleanliness and Safety: Germophobia's Delight!
Okay, this is where the Ji Hotel really shines. COVID-19 has changed EVERYTHING, and I'm here for the clean. Seriously, the Anti-viral cleaning products were clearly in heavy rotation. Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Staff trained in safety protocol? Definitely! There’s even a Doctor/nurse on call, if you are feeling under the weather or your food hasn’t processed well. The fact they have a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and Individually-wrapped food options were a comforting addition.
There was even a Room sanitization opt-out available, which is great if you like to live in some kind of post-apocalyptic filth. I did not opt-out. No way.
The hotel had CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Smoke alarms, and security [24-hour]! It’s a fortress!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious…Well, Food.
The Asian breakfast was pretty solid. The Buffet in restaurant was also there, which I, as a human who loves food, immediately gravitated towards. The Coffee shop was a lifesaver in the mornings, even if the coffee was… well, let's just say it wasn't Portland-grade. There’s Asian cuisine in the restaurant, and it was tasty enough for me.
One night, I ordered Room service [24-hour]. It was a bit of a gamble at 3 AM (jet lag is a cruel mistress). However, the food arrived surprisingly quickly, and it wasn't half bad, although the soup in restaurant was not to my liking.
Things to Do (and Ways to Relax): Spa, Spa, Spa! (and Maybe a Gym)
Honestly, the Spa/sauna was the highlight. The Sauna was heavenly. The Massage was a welcome relief after a day of battling crowds. They even had a Pool with view! I didn’t actually swim, but it was nice to see. I think I saw people doing Body scrub and Body wrap, but I was way too self-conscious to try that out, although, the foot bath was a nice touch. They have a Fitness center too, but I’m more of a "relax and eat" kind of traveler.
Services and Conveniences: The Hotel is a Well-Oiled Machine (Mostly)
They have Air conditioning in public area, which is a must-have in Shanghai's humid heat. The Concierge was helpful and friendly, and the Daily housekeeping was immaculate. They even had a Convenience store, which was perfect for grabbing snacks and essentials (like more instant ramen, because, again, jet lag).
I also used the Laundry service. It was expensive but a lifesaver.
They even have a car park [free of charge]. As for Currency exchange, it seemed a bit limited. Also, when I asked the doorman for a taxi, he gave me the stink eye. The Car park [on-site] and the car power charging station were also available.
The Mishaps (and the Quirks That Almost Ruined My Trip)
Alright, let's be honest, it wasn't all sunshine and spa treatments.
The Awkward Elevator Moment: One morning, I got stuck in the elevator with a very stern-looking businessman and a mountain of luggage. (I swear, my travel style looks like I own a moving company). He grunted at me, and then the elevator lurched to a halt. (I swear I heard the theme music from JAWS at that moment). Apparently, he had a button-pushing issue. We finally got it going, but the silence was deafening. Now, I'm usually good in a pinch, but this felt like a scene out of a bad movie.
The "Lost in Translation" Breakfast: On the first day, I tried to order a Western breakfast. The result? I ended up with something that looked suspiciously like spicy noodles and a side of… green beans. They're trying, bless their hearts. Alternative meal arrangement was available!
Final Verdict: Worth It?
So, would I recommend the Ji Hotel near Wuwei Dong Rd Metro? Yes. Mostly. It’s got its flaws, and the quirks are definitely part of the experience. But for the price, the cleanliness, and the overall convenience, it’s a solid base for exploring Shanghai. Just be prepared for some minor adventures along the way. It's certainly not perfect, but it's an experience, and that’s what makes travel fun, yes?
Escape to Paradise: Unforgettable Luxury at Puri Artha Hotel, Ubud
Alright, buckle up buttercup, because you're about to get a front-row seat to my chaotic jaunt in Shanghai, specifically around the blessed Ji Hotel near Wuwei Dong Road Metro Station. This ain't your polished, Instagram-perfect travel itinerary. This is the real deal, messy emotions and all.
Day 1: Shanghai Shenanigans (and Jetlag-Induced Confusion)
- 6:00 AM: (Or was it 7? Who knows, jetlag is a beast!) Wake up in my surprisingly decent Ji Hotel room. It's…clean! And the AC works. Small victories. I'm already sweating though, despite the AC. Shanghai humidity is my new nemesis.
- 6:30 AM: Scramble for the "complimentary" breakfast. Apparently, "complimentary" means "questionable pastries and instant coffee." My stomach does a nervous dance. Contemplate smuggling in a bag of my own Oreos from home. (Pro tip: Always pack Oreos.)
- 7:00 AM: Stumble towards the Wuwei Dong Road metro. This is where the real adventure begins! First hurdle: deciphering the metro map. It's like a spiderweb of colorful spaghetti. And then I have to figure out how to actually buy a ticket. (I'm pretty sure I looked like a bewildered goldfish for a good five minutes.) Success! Though I almost accidentally bought a lifetime pass…
- 8:00 AM: Metro ride to the Yu Garden. Oh my god, the crowds! It's like a Disney ride, but instead of animatronic princesses, you have throngs of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. Don't get me wrong, the garden is gorgeous, with its intricate pagodas and koi ponds, but the sheer number of people trying to Instagram the same view makes me want to scream. I find a tiny, relatively empty corner and just… breathe. Needed that.
- 9:30 AM: Yu Garden snack attack! Found a stall selling these savory dumplings. They were hot, juicy, and absolutely divine. (Ignore the questionable street hygiene, you only live once, right?) My fingers were greasy, my shirt possibly stained, but my soul was happy.
- 10:30 AM: Back on the metro, heading towards the Bund. The metro is a fascinating microcosm of life. Observe: tiny old ladies with shopping bags, businessmen glued to their phones, teenagers sharing earbuds and giggling. And me, trying not to get elbowed.
- 11:30 AM: The Bund! Okay, now I see why everyone raves about it. The historic buildings, the gleaming skyscrapers, the river…it's breathtaking. I actually stopped and just stared for a good five minutes. Then I promptly bumped into a street performer dressed as a giant panda. He gave me a high-five. My inner child rejoiced.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at some place near the Bund. (Honestly, I can't remember the name, I was too busy overwhelmed by the menu in Mandarin and the general bustle.) Tried to order dumplings, ended up with something suspiciously resembling a giant, soggy noodle. I ate it. (See: Only live once.)
- 2:00 PM: Stroll along the Bund. Lots of pictures (duh!). I’m realizing my feet hurt. A lot.
- 3:00 PM: Attempted shopping at a nearby mall. Got lost. Failed. Needed another iced coffee just to function.
- 4:00 PM: Metro back to the hotel. I'm exhausted. My legs feel like lead. My brain is mush. All I want is a shower and a nap.
- 5:00 PM: Shower. Bliss.
- 6:00 PM: Nap. (Glorious, beautiful nap.)
- 7:00 PM: Forced myself to go out for dinner, mostly because I knew I would regret staying in the room. Found a little noodle shop near the hotel. Simple, delicious, and surprisingly affordable. (Shanghai food is a revelation, let me tell you.)
- 8:00 PM: Back at the hotel. Crashing. Writing this diary entry at the last gasp of consciousness.
Day 2: Deeper Dives (and a Near-Meltdown)
- 7:00 AM: Wake up. Jetlag, still a little monster. Actually remembered to pack Oreos this time. Victory!
- 7:30 AM: Another questionable hotel breakfast. Decided to skip the coffee this time. My heart can't take it.
- 8:30 AM: Headed back on the metro (I'm basically a pro now, though I still get a little flustered). Today: Shanghai Museum. Thought I was prepared. I wasn't. The sheer scope of the collection is overwhelming. Bronze, ceramics, jade… it's a sensory overload, in the best way possible.
- 10:00 AM: That Jade Room. Oh. My. God. The intricate detail, the flawless craftsmanship…I honestly felt a little faint. Spent a ridiculous amount of time just standing there staring at a jade carving of a dragon, pretending I understood the history behind it. (I didn't, but it was beautiful.)
- 11:30 AM: Got completely LOST in the Museum. Wandered aimlessly for a good half hour, feeling incredibly stupid. Finally found my way back to the entrance, feeling a mix of triumph and utter exhaustion.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch Time! And I stumble across a tiny little hole in the wall that serves Xiaolongbao - Soup Dumplings. My world changed. The perfect combination of soft skin, savory broth, and delicious filling. They were so good I almost cried. I then proceeded to burn my tongue. Worth it.
- 2:00 PM: Attempt to visit Tianzifang, supposedly an artsy alleyway with shops and cafes. Took the metro. Got out at the wrong stop again. Swore a little under my breath.
- 2:30 PM: Found Tianzifang! Eventually. It was cute, sort of. Lots of tourists. Got slightly annoyed by the sheer amount of selfie sticks. Bought a few trinkets, just to say I did.
- 4:00 PM: Metro back to the hotel. Serious need of a nap. My feet are now screaming in protest.
- 5:00 PM: Nap. Slept so soundly I dreamt I was floating down the Yangtze River on a giant dumpling. Weird, but pleasant.
- 7:00 PM: Decided I needed a change of pace. Ubered (finally figured that out!) to a high-end restaurant, because, YOLO! The food was incredible, the service impeccable, and it made me feel incredibly out of place.
- 8:30 PM: Walked back to my hotel along a street near the hotel.
- 9:00 PM: Back at the hotel, and ready to crash.
Day 3: Departure (and a Fond Farewell to the Dumplings)
- 6:00 AM: Hotel breakfast (still questionable). Started seriously contemplating smuggling Oreos into the country.
- 7:00 AM: Packing. Realized I bought way too much stuff. Of course.
- 8:00 AM: Metro to the airport. (Yes, I can now navigate the Shanghai metro like a pro, or at least, less like a bewildered goldfish.)
- 9:00 AM: Airport. Security. More long lines.
- 10:00 AM: Finding a place to say goodbye to my dumplings.
- 11:00 AM: Flight. Goodbye, Shanghai!
- 12:00 PM: Reflecting fondly on dumplings
Final Thoughts:
Shanghai is… overwhelming. Beautiful, chaotic, delicious, exhausting. It's a city that throws everything at you, and you just have to hang on for the ride. Would I go back? Absolutely. But next time, I'm bringing a bigger suitcase, a translator app, and a lot more Oreos. And maybe learn how to actually order food in Mandarin.
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Ji Hotel Near Wuwei Dong Rd Metro: You *Really* Wanna Know? Here's the Messy Truth (and Maybe Some Regrets)
Is this Ji Hotel Actually "Near" the Wuwei Dong Rd Metro? Because Google Maps LIES, Doesn't It?
Okay, let's be real. "Near" is... subjective. I'd say it's a solid *maybe* 10-15 minute walk. Yeah, Google Maps is optimistic. Especially when it's pouring rain, and you're dragging a suitcase that weighs more than your dignity. The real test? Did I arrive sweaty and cursing? Yep. But hey, at least I got some cardio in before the questionable breakfast. And there *is* a 7-Eleven practically next door, so swings and roundabouts, I guess.
The Rooms – Are They Actually as Chic and... Minimalist as the Photos? Or Are They Just Tiny Boxes of Beige?
Ugh. The photos. They are engineered to make you feel like you're about to live in a design magazine spread. Reality? Think "slightly larger than a coffin, but with nicer lighting." Look, the design *is* sleek. Very "Scandinavian minimalist chic." Until you try to, you know, actually *move* in it. My suitcase basically ate the entire floor space. And the "view"? Well, let's just say I became intimately acquainted with the fire escape of the building across the alley. Romance! But hey, the shower was decent. Important detail.
Breakfast – Should I Bother? Or Should I Just Embrace the 7-Eleven Life?
Oh boy. The breakfast. This is where things get… interesting. "Interesting" in the sense of, "Is this... *soup* for breakfast? With, like, a single, sad-looking dumpling in it?" Look, I get it. It's included. It's budget. But the food court at the train station across the street had *more* variety. I tried the noodles, once. Regretted it. I'm pretty sure it involved something vaguely resembling… offal. Stick to the 7-Eleven. You've been warned. Trust me, your stomach will thank you.
Okay, But What About the Cleanliness? I Am Not A Fan of Germs.
Cleanliness? Generally, not bad. My room *felt* clean. I mean, they didn't skip the crucial steps, y'know? Fresh sheets (I *hope*). Fresh towels. No visible evidence of the previous occupants (mostly). The bathroom was, on the whole, relatively pristine. And look, I’m a germaphobe, let loose. I am looking with the critical eye of an eagle. So yeah, it passes the sniff test. However, one tiny, *teeny* little thing… the stain on the rug… I'm choosing to ignore it. Out of sight, out of mind, right? Just bring your own slippers… just in case.
The Staff - Are they helpful, or just, like, apathetic to the existence of foreigners?
The staff… ah, the staff. Okay, some were exceptionally helpful. One young woman at the front desk saw me struggling with my luggage and rushed out to help. I almost cried, honestly. Bless her. But there was also that one guy... He looked like he'd seen a ghost on his coffee break. Asked him for directions, and I think he just pointed… vaguely. At the city. So, hit or miss. But most importantly? They spoke enough English to get by, which is more than I can say for my Mandarin. So, positive points for that. Bonus points if you can manage a few basic Mandarin phrases. They appreciate the effort.
Was the Wi-Fi Actually Usable? Because I Need My Instagram Fix!
Wi-Fi? Yes. Usable? Mostly. Mostly. I had moments of pure, unadulterated streaming bliss. But then there were the… *other* moments. Picture this: trying to video call your mom, desperately trying to show off your fantastic noodles and the connection drops. For a solid hour. Embarrassing. So, be prepared for intermittent outages. Download your essentials beforehand. And maybe invest in a data plan. Don't blame me if your selfies are delayed! Again: Shanghai's a massive city, embrace it!
Any Hidden Fees or Pesky Surprises I Should Know About?
Hmm. Hidden fees? Not that I noticed, but I'm also not one for reading the fine print that closely. Just the basic. No ridiculous resort fees. The price you see *is* the price you (probably) pay. However... remember that deposit. And, like, make sure you don't *lose* the key card. That could get expensive. And be prepared to possibly *haggle* on your taxi fare back to the airport. Not the hotel's doing, but still... Shanghai taxi drivers, am I right? Just embrace the chaos. And maybe brush up on your Mandarin for the essential phrases. Trust me, it helps.
So, Would You Stay There Again? Be Honest!
*Sigh*. This is the big one, isn’t it? Okay, here we go. Look, it's not the Ritz. It's not even the Hyatt. I'd probably survive there again. The price is right. The location, while not *perfect*, is convenient enough. It's a good base camp. The rooms, however, are a touch of a bore. But if you need a clean-ish, relatively affordable place to crash for a few nights while exploring Shanghai, then yes. I would probably go back. Just pack a *lot* of snacks and *definitely* download offline Google Maps. Oh, and maybe a strong stomach for breakfast. And a healthy dose of perspective. Shanghai is a chaotic, exhilarating, exhausting, beautiful place. The Ji Hotel is just a small piece of that puzzle. Probably not the *best* piece, but it'll do. And, honestly? The 7-Eleven is a lifesaver.
