Jinxiao Hotel （Xiamen Lvcuo Subway Branch）

This hotel was a good choice for our trip. It was central to our plans and gave us a lot of room. The cost was fantastic and everything was clean. We felt safe, even in such a busy location. The apartment was very large, though utilitarian. The bedrooms were comfortable, with the hard beds not uncommon in China. Ours had two bedrooms with twin beds in each. The air conditioners worked well and kept the air cool and dry, despite hot and humid days. Everything was clean, but we still had a few bugs around the place, which did not bother me. The showers had individual hot water heaters, so plenty of hot water. I did not test the sink's hot water, though. Bottled water was available downstairs free for small bottles, 3RMB for liters. The staff spoke little to no English, but most were polite and kind in trying to work out what was needed. If you have no Chinese skills, a good phrase book or a telephone interpreter will help tremendously. We finally found out mid-week that breakfast is served on the 9th floor, and only from 7-8:30. We managed to miss it every morning. I read other reviews saying it is Chinese style and sit-down, not buffet, so it may not be worth it if you don't read Chinese. Because the floors are tile and the walls mostly bare, everything echos. Noise from outside and the hallways is easily heard, but we got used to it within a day. There is a lot of traffic below the hotel, and a large KTV just below. The only true complaint I have is with the kitchen. There are no kitchen goods except 4 glasses and 4 cup & saucers, and an electric kettle. There is a stove and a refrigerator, but no plates or pans, so cooking was out of the question. Overall a good room, a great price, and a central location. If you're prepared, it makes a good long stay hotel, though not luxurious.