Traveling, I am acutely aware of the US dollar’s strength. I often check the local exchange rates now, so I can see just how far my savings will take me. With my international plane tickets already paid for, my biggest cut into that savings is me sleeping. And as the Chinese yuan climbs in strength to our dollar, I’m often doing the mental math of just how much that gain will affect me once I get to said place and have to pay for the room.
As I started this journey, I had a couple of requirements for where I’d lay my weary head. I’m a pretty low-maintenance gal, so all I said I needed was: 1) my own room and 2) a good internet connection in my room or one that was easily accessible in the lobby. I thought my best bet would be staying in single rooms at hostels.
And for the last week in Beijing, I stayed at a quaint hostel that had a great front-desk staff, daily free breakfasts, and an unfaltering wireless network. I also slept on a twin bed and shared a bathroom with I don’t know how many others. And that’s OK. I’ve “bathed” with wet wipes and used an outhouse for God’s sake (which it actually was…I was helping build a non-denominational church camp for inner city kids from Chihuahua, Mexico). But that was a few years ago. And I had reason to do it; I had no choice. But a few days ago when I booked the rest of my trip in China, I realized that I actually DO have a choice. So, as I reserved my rooms, I added one more thing to my list of “musts” for places I’ll stay: 3) must have own toilet/shower in room.
Checking into my new room, I’m ecstatic. I’m probably the only Westerner in the whole hotel (which I enjoy, because I know it will force me to learn a bit more Chinese), but I have a Western-style toilet, a shower stall, and a closet. Who knew this would make me so happy? And even with today’s unfavorable exchange rate, it should only be about $9 USD more a night. Definitely worth it, my dears. And here’s to hoping our dollar gains in strength!
that’s a nice bed ms. rust hope u having lotz of fun =)
this bed looks nice, like one of those commercials for the beds for business travelers. i’m glad you’re safe, and having fun!
Woah, that’s a really good deal! Hooray for Western toilets. I would be absolutely tickled to get a western toilet.