Urumqi's BEST Hotel? Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave Review!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving deep into the Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave in Urumqi. Forget those sterile travel blogs; this is going to be real, raw, and hopefully, helpful. And maybe a little bit chaotic, because let's be honest, life is.
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The Good, the Bad, and the Surprisingly Okay (and the Wi-Fi, Oh the Wi-Fi!)
First things first: Accessibility. I'm not in a wheelchair, but I always keep an eye out for this. Now, I can’t give a definitive "this is 100% wheelchair accessible!" claim. Websites and brochures say they are, but you know how that goes. However, it's worth noting there's an elevator, and the common areas seemed relatively navigable. They've got Facilities for disabled guests, so that's a plus. If accessibility is a MUST, contact the hotel directly and ask specific questions – don’t rely solely on my anecdotal ramblings!
Location, Location,…Midong Ave? Okay, so Midong Ave. isn't exactly the Champs-Élysées. It's… serviceable. Urumqi isn't exactly a tourist hotspot. It's a stopover, a launching point for exploring Xinjiang. The Car park [free of charge] is a godsend if you're driving – which is probably the best way to get around here. They also have Airport transfer, and that is definitely worth it. Trust me. Urumqi airport is… well, it's there.
The Internet – The Lifeline! Let's talk about what really matters: The Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And Wi-Fi in public areas! Honestly, this is a huge selling point in a place like Urumqi. You’re probably going to need it to translate everything and keep in touch with the world outside of the region. I found that the Internet access – wireless in my room was much better than the Internet [LAN], which always makes me feel like I'm back in the 90s.
Cleanliness and Safety – Because You Know, Safety First (and Second, and Third)
Okay, let's get real. Xinjiang can be a sensitive place. You want to feel safe. The Jinjiang Inn seems to understand this. They've got more Safety/security feature that a James Bond villain’s lair. CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property. Front desk [24-hour]? Check. Security [24-hour]? Check. Smoke alarms? Check. Fire extinguisher? Yep. Hand sanitizer everywhere. Plus, they had a Daily disinfection in common areas, which is super reassuring, especially these days. They even have Rooms sanitized between stays. Honestly, made me feel better than I have in my lifetime. The Anti-viral cleaning products were a bonus. The rooms felt clean, which is the most important thing.
The Room Itself – Ah, the Sanctuary!
My room? Spacious. Clean. Not screamingly modern, but perfectly fine. A non-smoking room, thank goodness. Inside, you've got your Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Desk, Hair dryer, Mini bar (who actually uses these anymore?), Refrigerator, Safe box (essential for keeping your passport out of the wrong hands), and Wi-Fi [free]. The Blackout curtains were a lifesaver because I was trying to adjust to the time change. Now, I’m not the most high maintenance person, but I like to have my creature comforts. I've got to say the shower was a good pressure and the bed, I slept on it like I haven't slept in years.
Now For The REALLY Important Stuff: Food!
Dining, drinking, and snacking. Oh, the food! This is where things get interesting. There's a Buffet in restaurant for breakfast, and it's Asian breakfast with a few Western options. They had the usual, which is a plus! They have the essential Coffee/tea in restaurant and a Coffee shop if you'd rather go there. There’s Room service [24-hour], which is good to know after a long day exploring. *Breakfast takeaway service is also a plus, especially if you're jet lagged and want to get moving. In the restaurant they have *International cuisine in restaurant*, and I have heard that there is a *Vegetarian restaurant*. If you are feeling for some *Soup in restaurant* or even a Salad in restaurant, those are present. Bottle of water? Always.
Things to Do (If You Actually Want To Do Things)
Alright, let’s be honest: Urumqi isn't exactly known for its vibrant nightlife. But if you feel like you're done with relaxation, they have a Fitness center, if working out is your thing. There is a Spa/sauna section. They have a Sauna. The word 'Spa' itself is present. I didn't go to the Body scrub, but they have that. I didn’t go to the Pool with view and I didn’t see a Swimming pool [outdoor] but they are options.
Services and Conveniences – Your Everyday Life Savers
They have almost everything you'd need. Daily housekeeping, Laundry service, a Concierge (helpful for navigating Urumqi's mysteries), and a Convenience store. They also had Facilities for disabled guests. Doctor/nurse on call, and you can do Cash withdrawal! Important! They also have Dry cleaning and Ironing service. They have Luggage storage and Food delivery. The Elevator, Air conditioning in public area. Just imagine the heat without those, it's important.
For the Kids – Keeping the Little Monsters Happy!
I didn't bring any kids along with me, but I noticed they are quite Family/child friendly. They also have Babysitting service.
The Quirks and Impefections (Because Nobody's Perfect)
Okay, here's where things get real. The biggest “drawback”? The location, again. It’s not central. You’ll be relying on taxis or their airport shuttle, which is fine, but not ideal for impromptu exploration. Also, my attempts at ordering food in Mandarin were met with a lot of blank stares. Learn some basic Mandarin before going.
There was the tiniest stain on my bedspread. Hardly a dealbreaker, but I'm all about brutal honesty. The food at the buffet wasn’t exactly Michelin-star quality, but it was edible, and that's what matters at 7 am.
The Verdict?
The Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave is a solid choice. It's not glamorous, but it's clean, safe, and convenient. The free Wi-Fi is a lifesaver, and the staff is helpful. It's a great base for exploring what Urumqi has to offer, and a good bet if you are a tourist!
The Offer (Because You Deserve It!)
Alright, listen up! Are you planning a trip to Urumqi? Then I'm going to recommend this hotel.
Book your stay at the Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave now, and get…
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- Free airport transfer because you deserve to arrive in style (or at least, without navigating a strange airport in a place where you might not speak the language.)
- A complimentary bottle of water (because hydration is key to surviving a long trip!)
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Escape to China: Luxurious Stay Near Wujiang Pingwang Bus Station!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is Urumqi, baby, and we're gonna stumble through it together. Brace yourselves for a rollercoaster of emotions, questionable food choices, and the inevitable language barrier misunderstandings. And yes, the Jinjiang Inn Select on Midong Avenue is our base. Let's do this (probably in the wrong order):
Urumqi: The Messy, Magnificent, and Occasionally Mystifying Adventure
Day 1: Arrival & Immediate Gratification (and Mild Panic)
- 11:00 AM (Approximate): Touchdown! Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC). The air…it’s an experience. Thin, definitely thin. Grabbed my bag, feeling slightly smug that I'd packed a decent backpack. Pro tip: learn some basic Mandarin before you go. My Mandarin, however, resembles a toddler attempting quantum physics. Luckily, there are signs, right?
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Taxi to Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Avenue. Okay, the driver seemed to understand "Jinjiang Inn." Fingers crossed. The ride? Woah. Urumqi. It's a city. A real, live, dusty, bustling city. Architecture that blends the old with the new…and a whole lot of concrete. I am pretty sure I saw a camel…maybe. (Actually, probably just a trick of the light. Or the altitude.)
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Check-in at the Inn. The front desk staff’s English is about on par with my Mandarin. But hey, smiles are universal, right? Got my keycard (the one that requires a small act of engineering to actually work). Room check, a bit too basic but I am ok with it. The bed…looks comfy enough after the flight. Time to crash before I crash.
- 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Lunch. Okay, so the hotel restaurant seems…uninspired. I took a wander, decided to be brave. Found a little hole-in-the-wall place overflowing with locals. Pointed at a steaming bowl of noodles that smelled amazing. My stomach rumbled approvingly. It was spicy. Really, really spicy. My eyes watered. I loved it. Possibly the best noodles of my life. Worth the fiery aftermath.
- 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Jet lag, mild panic, and a Google Maps existential crisis. Napped. Woke up. Tried to navigate the streets but quickly became disoriented. Decided to embrace the lost-ness. Wandered. Took pictures of random storefronts. Felt incredibly alone but also strangely free. Urumqi, you eccentric seductress, you.
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Dinner redux? Found a kebab place. The aroma of roasting meat pulled me right in. This time, pointed at the "least spicy" option. Still spicy! But delicious. Sat watching the crowds, feeling a sense of belonging (despite the language barrier).
- 8:00 PM onwards: Back to the hotel. Wrote in my journal (rambling, incoherent thoughts abound). Watched some bizarre Chinese TV. Wondered if I'd ever see my own country again. Slept.
Day 2: Exploring the Spicy Heart of Urumqi (and Questioning My Life Choices)
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. Hotel breakfast. Questionable sausage, questionable coffee. Needed fuel for the day's adventures (or possible failures, who knows).
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: The Grand Bazaar Debacle. The Grand Bazaar. The name itself promises excitement. Got there, lost my mind in a kaleidoscope of colours, smells, and insistent vendors. Bargaining is an art form I have yet to master. Ended up with a slightly overpriced scarf and a headache. The highlight? The sheer energy of the place. People bustling, bartering, laughing. It was overwhelming, and wonderful. Learned the hard way that you probably shouldn't try to photograph everything immediately… some people were happy, most didn't quite get it.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch near the Bazaar. Found another noodle place (surprise). This time, I tried something different. This time my mouth was on fire. I am convinced they do it on purpose. This is a rite of passage.
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Red Hill Park: A Hilly Hinderance. Decided to climb Red Hill. A park! Nature! Fresh air! (Sort of. It was still Urumqi air). The climb was…steeper than I anticipated. Felt like I was going to die. Reached the top, gasped for breath, and… the view? Stunning. Red-tinged mountains meeting the sprawling city. Worth the near-death experience. Made some new friends, or at least friendly nods at the top.
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Ice cream. Mandatory. Needed something cold to counteract the spicy food and the exertion. Found a local shop. The ice cream? Amazing. The language barrier? Hilarious. (I think I ended up with a "special" flavor).
- 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Xinjiang Regional Museum. Thought I should learn something. The museum was excellent, especially the mummies. Wow. Just, wow! Fascinating insights into the history and culture of the region. Made me appreciate the complexities of Xinjiang.
- 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Dinner. Back to the neighborhood. I think I am starting to recognize some faces. The food is still spicy. The people are still friendly. Managed to order a decent meal (with minimal hand gestures!).
- 9:00 PM onwards: Back to the hotel. Reflecting. Urumqi is…challenging. Beautiful. Overwhelming. I am not sure it has a good side, or a bad side. It just is. Feeling tired but exhilarated. Probably won't sleep well.
Day 3: More Adventures (and Possibly More Spicy Food)
- Morning: Maybe I’ll actually try to use the gym in the hotel. Or… maybe I'll just nap. (Probably nap).
- Afternoon: Day trip? Should I try the Heavenly Lake? Get a tour? Or just stay within easy walking distance of a noodle vendor?
- Evening: One last dinner. I'll probably find another hole-in-the-wall place. Pray to the culinary gods for mercy.
- Night: Pack. Say goodbye to a city that is both infuriating and captivating.
Important Considerations & Imperfections
- Language: Absolutely vital. Learn some basic Mandarin phrases. Download a translation app. Be patient. Laugh a lot.
- Food: Embrace the spice. Carry antacids. Be prepared for delicious explosions of flavour.
- Transportation: Taxis are readily available (remembering to get them to use the meter is advised). Public transport? Maybe. I'm not sure I'm brave enough yet.
- Altitude: Drink plenty of water. Pace yourself. Don't be ashamed to take a nap when you're exhausted.
- Culture: Be respectful of local customs. Observe. Listen. Be open to new experiences.
- Emotional State: Expect moments of frustration, confusion, and awe. You will likely feel overwhelmed at times. Embrace it all!
This is just the beginning, folks! Urumqi will throw a lot at you, but it'll also reward you with unforgettable experiences. This itinerary is a suggestion, a starting point. Go get lost, embrace the chaos, eat the noodles, and above all, have fun. Because, honestly, if you're not at least a little bit lost, you're probably not really experiencing Urumqi. And that would be a tragedy.
Unbelievable Mercure Forbach: France's Hidden Gem Hotel!
Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave, Urumqi: The Unfiltered FAQ (Because Real Life Ain't Perfect)
Alright, folks, let's get down to brass tacks. You're looking at a trip to Urumqi, and the Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave is on your radar. I've been there. I've survived it. I'm here to spill the tea, the Xinjiang-style tea of course. No sugar coating. Buckle up.
Is this place actually decent? Like, can I *sleep* there?
Okay, let's be honest. "Decent" is relative, especially in Urumqi. The Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave is… serviceable. Think: clean sheets, a decent desk (necessary for my massive laptop, you know), and that blessed escape from the Urumqi dust. I slept. Did I sleep *well*? Well, that depends. If your definition of 'well' involves earplugs to silence the occasional hallway karaoke (yes, that happened), then yeah, you'll be fine. The walls are… let’s say, acoustically porous. So, bring earplugs. Seriously – bring earplugs. Also, don't expect luxury. Expect functional. Expect… surviving the night.
The location… is it convenient? Because I’m picturing yak caravans and a remote outpost…
Midong Ave? Okay, so, it's not *in* downtown, which is probably a good thing, because downtown Urumqi can feel...intense. It's like a city has a massive seizure of cars and scooters and people. Getting to the hotel involved a taxi ride that included a driver who was simultaneously talking on the phone, texting, and navigating. Bless him. Midong Ave is… well, it's *on* Midong Ave. Easy to say, difficult to describe. There are definitely convenient things, like a few restaurants nearby that serve unbelievably good (and ridiculously cheap) Xinjiang food. Find a Uyghur restaurant. You won't regret it. Seriously. Find one. The hotel isn't *central* to the hottest action. But it's a manageable distance to the train station, which, after a long day in Xinjiang, feels more valuable than a diamond-encrusted pillow. It's close to enough things that you won't feel completely isolated, and far enough away to get some, you know, peace.
The staff… are they helpful? Can I, like, *communicate*?
Okay, communication. This is where it gets interesting. The staff is… trying. They're lovely, genuinely lovely people, but their English skills vary. I once tried to order breakfast, and it involved a lot of pointing, miming, and the eventual arrival of a plate of… well, it looked like an egg, but it might also have been a miniature omelet made of sun-dried shoe leather. It was an adventure. Google Translate is your friend. Learn some basic Mandarin. Be patient. Smile. They try their best. They really, truly do. One time, I needed to find a pharmacy at 3 AM (don't ask), and the front desk guy went above and beyond, phoning around and eventually pointing me in the right direction. That kind of kindness transcends language barriers. So be prepared for some language challenges. But also be prepared for them to go out of their way to help you. It's a mixed bag, but the effort is definitely there.
The Rooms! What’s the *vibe*? Clean? Modern? Or like, something out of a Soviet-era film?
The rooms...are functional. Clean, yes. Modern? Eh, let's call it *recently updated*. The decor is… well, it's not going to win any design awards. Think beige, maybe some slightly questionable artwork on the walls (I spent a good five minutes staring at a painting that appeared to be a still life of… something), and a bed that will get the job done. The bathroom? It's clean. The shower pressure is… adequate. Don't expect spa-level luxury. Do expect practicality. One time, I found a mysterious stain on the carpet that I *really* didn't want to know the origin of. I covered it with my suitcase. Out of sight, out of mind, right? The point is, it's not a palace. It's a place to crash after a long day of exploring the wonders and dust devils of Xinjiang. And honestly, after the sheer sensory overload of Urumqi, you’ll just be grateful for a room.
Breakfast. Should I bother? Is it… edible?
Ah, breakfast. The breakfast experience. This is where things get… interesting. Okay, the breakfast *is* included. And it's… well, it's there. Imagine a buffet of… let’s see… congee of various consistencies, some questionable "western" options (the "toast" tasted suspiciously like cardboard), and the aforementioned mysterious egg-like substance. There’s also usually a selection of pickled things that will either delight or terrify you. There are also, generally, some local options that are… well, let's say I recommend exploring the local food scene nearby, for a proper breakfast. I was pretty sure I saw a guy eating instant noodles for breakfast one day - and honestly, I didn’t blame him. It’s not the *worst* breakfast in the world. But it’s not a highlight. Consider it a… necessary evil, a fuel-up before conquering Urumqi’s chaos.
Any hidden gems or "oh crap, I should have known" moments?
Okay, the secret weapon: **The local food stalls NEAR the hotel.** Seriously. Don’t be afraid to wander a bit. I stumbled upon a tiny Uyghur restaurant, run by this woman who looked like she could wrestle a bear – she made the best laghman noodles I have EVER tasted. The food scene is the real gem here. The REAL highlight was the street food – cheap, delicious, and an authentic taste of Xinjiang. Also, the Wi-Fi? Don’t expect miracles. It’s usable, but don’t plan on streaming anything. Download everything you need beforehand. And bring an adapter – China uses different plugs. Also, the hotel is pretty far from the main tourist centers. Be prepared to take a taxis everywhere. And finally: Bring a sense of humor. You're in Urumqi. Expect the unexpected. Embrace the chaos. And remember, you're surviving an adventure, not a luxury vacation. And if you're lucky, maybe, *just maybe*, you'll find a perfect bowl of noodles.
Okay, so… would you stay there again? Be honest!
Honestly? Yes. Would I *prefer* a five-star hotel? Of course! But the Jinjiang Inn Select Midong Ave is: clean, relatively quiet (with earplugs), conveniently located (with a taxi), and the price is right. It’s not glamorous. It's not going to blow your mind. But it gets the job done. And sometimes, especially in the face of Urumqi's beautiful, overwhelming chaos, "Low Price Hotel Blog
