Booked 3 nights in the ”Elegant Residence City-View Double Bed Room” at the Fanbo Yashe Hotel. Overall, it was a good experience and a comfortable stay. The front desk was quite helpful, especially the wonderful receptionist Xiaoya, who assisted me with numerous things with enthusiasm, such as answering any questions, showcasing the various free amenities in the lobby, giving a quick demonstration of how to use the shared laundry area, and offered additional water or other services as needed. The bed and other furniture were comfortable and clean. The shower and bathroom area were fairly good as well. The atmosphere and decor of the room were probably the best thing. Most hotels have a stereotypical and replicated hotel room, but this hotel's rooms give you something more enjoyable since it is a different style from the norm.
Special note on cleanliness: I did want to give this a 4.5, but kept it rounded-up to a 5 since it was minor enough. The room did have some leftover sunflower seed shells in a few corners or where a piece of furniture meets the floor, and a little bit of dirt stuck where the floor layers overlap in the middle of the room. However, it was not that big of a deal. This is maybe a reminder for the hotel to take a second look where dirt or trash may get stuck when simply sweeping or mopping quickly.
Special note on the bathroom mirror lighting: The lighting by the bathroom sink and mirror could use some more direct lighting, since the position of the current lighting is not too strong and caused shadows on the face. This is not a big issue, but it could prove inconvenient to others, such as women putting on make up or trying to carefully trim a beard. The top-down lighting can cause shadows and unclear views under the eyes, nose, lips, and neck.
Tips for guests:
Name of the Hotel: While this website says Fanbo Yashe, you may actually see it named Van Gogh's Garden in person. Don't be confused; it is the same place. ”Fanbo” is related to the Chinese name for Van Gogh, ”Fan Gao”.
Laundry: Yes, is it available, but there is only one washer and dryer available (hopefully these are increased to two or three!). Laundry detergent is provided. It can be a little troublesome trying to manage around other guests, so it is likely best to do it during the day when people are busy. There is also some nearby clotheslines one can use or just hang in your room if there is not too much.
Foreigner Friendliness: Very good. They'll use Wechat to translate and communicate with you if necessary or find some other methods. In short, foreigners should have an easy time here. If other receptionists are friendly like Xiaoya, then there is nothing to worry about.
Attraction Services: The hotel seems to offer some ticket and transportation services for nearby attractions (or at least advertises third-party services), but I did not use them and cannot attest to them.
Location: It is right next to the bus station in Tongren (and a few streets away from the train station). Once the bus drops you off in the lot, you will need to exit the lot and head slightly east towards the nearby main street, then make your way south. You should encounter the hotel next to where the bus tickets are sold.
Outstanding
3354 Reviews