Hongcun Xiaotaoyuan Inn

Stayed in HongCun for 5 days. Almost all of the hostel refused to take in foreigners (this happens in other parts of the country also). They needed a local Identification Card for registration and I was told they will be fined RMB5000 if caught illegally housing a foreigner.My local travelling partners booked 2 rooms with a hostel but since they have to leave after 2 days, I have no choice but to look for alternative lodging for my other 3 days. I walked though the whole areas to view rooms and check prices but sad to find that none of them can officially take in a foreigner. Luckily I chance upon XiaoTaoYuan. The rooms are clean and spacious. The price is definitely well worth every cent. We paid RMB60 for a room with 3 beds. The owner is the village western doctor and his son practices in the town. The daughter-in-law who helps to run the hostel is also trained in the same profession. She is easy-going and very obliging. Best of all, the hostel is registered to take in foreigner. I have been to many parts of China. For my current trip, I have been to Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Wuyuan, Tangkou, HongCun and currently in Xitang but I would say that by far this is the best hostel I have stayed. It is also the only hostel whereby I left my valuables unlocked.