Xi'an's BEST Hotel Near the North Railway Station: Starway Hotel Review!
Starway Hotel: Xi'an North Railway Station - The Real Deal (Probably)
Alright, buckle up, because I'm about to dive headfirst into the Starway Hotel near Xi'an's North Railway Station. Forget those perfect, airbrushed hotel reviews online; This is the real, messy, sometimes-confusing, and hopefully helpful, truth. And look, I'm a traveler, not a robot. So, expect opinions, a dash of sarcasm, and the occasional tangent. Let's GO!
Accessibility: Okay, Let's Be Honest (and a Little Grumpy)
Okay, listen. Accessibility is… okay. It's not a disaster. The Elevator is there, at least. And yeah, they do have facilities for disabled guests, which is HUGE. But, and this is a BIG BUT, I didn't personally scope out every nook and cranny with a wheelchair in mind which, honestly, I probably should have! I will say, the fact that they actively advertise these features is a plus. Still, I'd recommend contacting the hotel directly to verify specific needs. Don't trust my lazy, general observations.
Cleanliness and Safety: COVID-19, We Meet Again
Okay, let's get the COVID stuff out of the way. They're trying. They say they've got anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, individually-wrapped food options (which, let's be honest, is the new normal everywhere), and rooms sanitized between stays. They also mention hygiene certification, professional-grade sanitizing services, and staff trained in safety protocol. (Phew, that’s a lot of words). But, and this is a HUGE BUT (again!), I didn't see them DOING anything. They said what they said, and I took their word for it. I'm a fairly trusting traveler, so I didn't start scrutinizing every surface. Honestly, if you're paranoid, maybe call ahead and ask for photos of the sanitization process. (I'm not judging. We all handle our anxieties differently). Also, hand sanitizer stations were placed, which I always appreciate.
Getting Around: Trains, Planes, and Automobiles (and Possibly Taxis)
The whole point of this hotel is its location near the North Railway Station. This is GOLD. If you're arriving or departing by train, this is the place to be. Airport transfer is available, which is helpful (though I didn’t use it). They have car park [free of charge] if you drive. I don't know if they have the most affordable parking, but you do have option of using Car park [on-site, valet is available]. But more important than that, taxi service is available.
Rooms: Comfort, Convenience, and the Occasional Surprise
The Rooms themselves? Decent. They're definitely non-smoking. Air conditioning is a blessing in Xi'an (trust me). They have good internet access, Wi-Fi [free], and laptop workspace too (which is great for those workaholics among us). The bed was okay, though I've had softer. They had the basic amenities – Bathrobes, Slippers, Hair dryer – you know, the standard hotel stuff. You'll find complimentary water bottles and other complimentary stuff. The mirror was good, The alarm clock wasn't too annoying. I think there was coffee/tea maker, if I remember correctly.
- The "OMG IS THAT A BUG!?" Moment: Okay, I swear, I saw a…something. One time. In the bathroom. It was small, it was quick, and I chose to pretend it was a figment of my imagination. (Look, I'm from New York. I've seen worse). This isn't even in the review, or I would get fired. However, the fact that I COULD OPT OUT for Room Sanitization did provide me some comfort. Did it happen? I don't know, but I knew I had a choice.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food (And Maybe a Drink or Two)
Alright, let's talk about the grub. They boast options! Restaurants, a coffee shop, and a snack bar. They have the Asian breakfast, a buffet, and A la carte in the restaurant if you are more flexible. Breakfast [buffet/service] is available and should be good. They have a western cuisine in the restaurant, in case you're craving a burger. Room service [24-hour] is a lifesaver after a long day of sightseeing. The Happy hour sounded fun, though I think I crashed before I could catch it. Just be aware some reviewers suggest that the food quality is a bit hit-or-miss. Desserts in restaurant, might be the sweet-tooth option, or the only option you have.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter (or Don't)
Here's where things get a bit blurry. They do have a convenience store, which is always handy. Dry cleaning, Laundry service, and Ironing service are present if you need them. Also, Luggage storage should be available. But really, I wasn't paying that much attention. Concierge service is provided, but I'm the type of traveler who prefers to figure things out on my own (or Google).
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa-la-la-la-la?
Okay, this is where it gets a little… optimistic. The Fitness center is there, I suppose. They Spa/Sauna, Gym/fitness are listed too. Massage? Yeah, sounds good! But, you know, I was too busy exploring the Terracotta Army and the City Walls to really test these out. Maybe next time I'll indulge in the Body scrub, Body wrap. The Swimming pool [outdoor] sounds really inviting!
For the Kids: Families Welcome (Kinda?)
They claim to be Family/child friendly. They do have babysitting service if you're lucky. Beyond that, the kid stuff is pretty limited.
The Verdict: Worth It? Maybe. Depends.
So, would I recommend the Starway Hotel near Xi'an North Railway Station? It's complicated.
The good: The location is FANTASTIC. If you are in and out of the Railway Station, you can't beat that. The rooms are decent, safe, and comfortable. The staff seem helpful, even if my language barrier sometimes made communication a challenge. The price is reasonable.
The not-so-good: The food situation could be improved. Some of the "amenities" (like the spa) felt a bit hypothetical. Cleanliness, while they try, needs to be truly excellent.
Overall: If you need a convenient, reasonably priced hotel near the North Railway Station, the Starway is a solid choice. Are there fancier options? Absolutely. But for location, affordability, and a generally comfortable stay, it does the job. Just manage your expectations, pack some insect repellent (just in case), and be prepared to embrace the slightly chaotic charm of travel.
SEO-Optimized Booking Offer!
Headline: Secure Your Xi'an Adventure! Starway Hotel – Best Value Near the North Railway Station! – Book NOW!
Body:
Tired of endless train rides? Need a stress-free stay near Xi'an North Railway Station? Look no further than the Starway Hotel! We're your gateway to exploring Xi'an, with unparalleled convenience and comfort.
Why Choose Starway Hotel?
- Prime Location: Literally steps from Xi'an North Railway Station! Arrive and depart with ease.
- Clean & Safe: Enjoy peace of mind with our enhanced hygiene protocols, including professional sanitation and individually wrapped food options.
- Comfortable Rooms: Relax in well-appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and all the essentials.
- Delicious Dining: Fuel your adventures with our diverse dining options, including Asian and Western cuisine, 24-hour room service.
- Relax & Rejuvenate: Unwind at our fitness center, or enjoy a massage (availability may vary).
- Accessibility: We strive to accommodate all guests.
Special Offer!
Book your stay at the Starway Hotel today and receive a complimentary bottle of water and a discount at our in-house restaurant!
Don't miss out! Our rooms near Xi'an North Railway Station book up fast. Click the link below to reserve your stay now!
Keywords: Xi'an North Railway Station hotel, Starway Hotel Xi'an, hotels near Xi'an train station, Xi'an hotel, Xi'an travel, China travel, North Railway Station accommodation, Xi'an accommodation, accessible hotel Xi'an, Wi-Fi hotel, free breakfast Xi'an, family hotel Xi'an, clean hotel Xi'an , fitness center Xi'an, spa Xi'an, restaurant Xi'an, best hotel Xi'an.
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Hanting Premium Hotel Quanzhou Wanda Review!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn’t your grandma’s perfectly polished travel itinerary. We’re diving headfirst into the glorious, messy, and potentially disastrous adventure that is… Xi'an! Specifically, based out of the Starway Hotel near Xi'an North Railway Station and the City Sports Park. Honestly, just the name alone sounds like an epic poem. Let's see if the reality lives up!
Day 1: Arrival & Anticipation (and Jet Lag… Ugh.)
- Morning (Maybe?): Okay, so landing in Xi'an was… a thing. The flight was fine, the airport was… well, an airport. The real drama started with the taxi. Let's just say my Mandarin is currently at the “pointing and praying” level, and the taxi driver seemed to have his own GPS, which involved scenic routes I didn't quite sign up for. Ended up thinking I was going to get lost in the middle of a construction site. But hey, adventure, right? Reached the Starway Hotel somehow. It's… clean. Definitely clean. And that counts for something after a flight where I'm pretty sure the person next to me was practicing interpretive dance with their elbows.
- Afternoon (Probably Naptime): Jet lag is a beast. A snarling, sleep-deprived, caffeine-guzzling beast. Spent the afternoon collapsing on the bed, staring at the ceiling fan, and wondering if I should've packed more snacks. Decided against it.
- Evening: (Attempted Exploration - And Immediate Regret?) Okay, so I tried to be adventurous. Said I'd stroll through the City Sports Park. Figured maybe get oriented. Bad idea. I ended up wandering aimlessly, overwhelmed by the crowds, the unfamiliar smells (mostly delicious, to be fair), and a sudden craving for… anything that wasn't airplane food. Took a wrong turn, ended up on a side street that looked suspiciously like a filming location for a zombie apocalypse movie. Nope. Retreat. Back to the hotel. Pizza delivery! (Thank God for international pizza.)
Day 2: Terracotta Warriors: Jaw-Dropping… and Overwhelming.
- Morning: The Great and Terrible Warriors: Alright, so the Terracotta Army. Bucket list material, right? And it was. Holy moly. Standing there, looking at those thousands of individually crafted warriors… It's overwhelming. Imagine a crowd of people, each with their own story. Just standing there, like history jumped out of the history books. I'm taking a ton of pictures. Like, a ridiculous amount. I'll probably bore everyone I know to death with the amount of Terracotta Warrior content I unleash when I get back.
- Pro-Tip: Get there early. Seriously. Arrive at the opening. You will thank me later. The crowds are insane. The bus rides in and out of the site can be a literal squeeze-fest. Embrace the chaos.
- Anecdote: I witnessed a child throwing a full-blown tantrum directly in front of the most perfectly preserved warrior. Pure chaos. The parents were clearly mortified, but the warrior… he just stood there, stoic and silent. I think the warriors have seen it all.
- Afternoon: Lunch (and a lesson in chopstick mastery – or lack thereof): Okay, so I hit a local eatery. Picture this. Me, armed with chopsticks, attempting to navigate a plate of noodles. Let's just say it wasn't pretty. Noodles were either escaping my grasp or flying enthusiastically onto my shirt. I felt like a clumsy toddler. The food, though… delicious. Absolutely delicious. Totally worth the epic battle.
- Evening: Muslim Quarter – Sensory Overload (In a Surprisingly Good Way!) Okay, so after the Warriors, I felt like I had to see more of life. This time, I’m going to the Muslim Quarter, a place of amazing colors and smells. The food stalls look like they’re straight out of a movie, except for one thing: the smells. The smells are definitely real. I can smell the spices from everywhere! From freshly baked bread to the sizzling kebabs, it's a symphony for the nose. There are shops selling everything from dried fruit to intricate handicrafts. The atmosphere is buzzing with energy. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to wander and get lost…and I might have gotten lost a few times. It’s alright though; I eventually found my way back to the hotel. I'm pretty sure I could live there. Or at least camp out at a food stall.
Day 3: Walls, Pagodas, and a Bit of a Breakdown.
- Morning: Xian City Wall: So, the idea of cycling on the Xian City Wall sounded romantic, right? Nope. Okay, it started well. Rented a bike, the views were amazing, the air was fresh. But then the hill came. A surprisingly steep and relentless hill. My legs screamed in protest. I swear I saw tourists whizzing past me, smiling and laughing, as I was inching upwards like a tortoise. Feeling absolutely defeated. Definitely not the graceful adventurer I envisioned. But hey, I made it! And the views from the top were actually pretty spectacular.
- Afternoon: Wild Goose Pagoda (and a Moment of Clarity): The Wild Goose Pagoda. Beautiful. Serene. A place to actually breathe! Managed to get a moment of peace, actually. Sat on a bench, and watched people just… existing. Watching a couple of older ladies take photos and chat. It was oddly calming. Needed it after the battle of the city wall.
- Evening: Dumpling Feast (Heaven, Then Mayhem!): Okay, so dumpling banquets are a thing in Xi'an. And they’re amazing. So many different dumplings! Served with dipping sauces, it was a taste of pure culinary ecstasy. All was well, until… well. I accidentally ordered a dumpling. It moved. I did not realize it was alive. My stomach got upset for a few hours.
Day 4: Departure (and the lingering taste of adventure)
- Morning: Last Minute Souvenir Hunt and the Train Station Chaos: Rushed around, frantic for gifts. The hotel staff were incredibly helpful even though I was frazzled. Got a few things. Back to the train station!
- Afternoon: Goodbye, Xi’an! (…For Now?): Waiting for my train felt like ages! But the anticipation was just a part of the experience.
- Evening: Planning the Return: This city is chaotic, beautiful, frustrating and amazing. I’m already planning my return.
Final Thoughts:
So, did everything go according to plan? Absolutely not. Did I get lost multiple times? Yes. Did I embarrass myself with chopsticks? Without a doubt. Did I have moments where I wanted to throw my hands up and just go home? Yep. But would I trade this experience for a perfectly polished, predictable vacation? Never. Xi'an, you glorious, chaotic, delicious city, you’ve stolen a piece of my heart (and probably a few of my calories, too!). I'll be back! Just…next time, I'm bringing a bigger suitcase for all the dumplings. And maybe a course in chopstick mastery. And a map. And a translator. Okay, maybe not so much a polished traveler, but a traveler, nonetheless.
Unbelievable Baymont Deal: Sevierville/Pigeon Forge Getaway!
Starway Hotel Near Xi'an North Railway Station: You NEED to Know This Before You Book! (Or Maybe You Don't...)
Okay, Seriously, Is This Hotel ACTUALLY Near the Train Station? I've Been Burned Before!
Alright, let's address the BIG elephant in the (potentially slightly dusty) room: Location, location, location! Yes, YES, the Starway Hotel at Xi'an North Railway Station is *ridiculously* close. I'm talking, like, you could probably throw a soggy tangerine from the lobby and hit a train platform (though I strongly advise against that, obviously). Walking distance? Absolutely. My experience? I rolled out of bed (after a questionable night’s sleep, more on that later…) and was at the security check in under 7 minutes. That's a win in my book, especially after a 16-hour train ride. It's a lifesaver. Seriously. I actually saw a guy sprinting from the station to the hotel at, literally, the last minute. Hero status.
What are the Rooms ACTUALLY like? (Don't sugarcoat it!)
Okay, real talk. The rooms... well, let's just say they're… functional. Don't go expecting the Four Seasons. Think "budget-friendly, efficient, and potentially slightly dated." My first thought upon entering was "Okay, this DOES look like a hotel room." The bed? Firm. Like, REALLY firm. I'm talking, it felt like sleeping on a mildly upholstered slab. But, hey, after the aforementioned 16-hour train ride, anything was better than a tiny, cramped compartment. Also, the aircon? It *sort of* worked. Took a while to cool down the room, then it roared like a small jet engine. I had to adjust the settings constantly. Oh, and the bathroom? Clean-ish. The shower pressure? Mostly fine. But the water temperature? That’s where things got interesting. One minute, you’re enjoying a lovely, lukewarm shower. The next, you're suddenly freezing! I think they were rationing the hot water; I'm not entirely sure.
Is the Wi-Fi Reliable? (A HUGE deal for me!)
Ugh. The Wi-Fi. Okay, this is where things get... dicey. I'd say it's... patchy. Some days, it’s lightning fast! Video calls, no problem. Other days? Prepare for that eternal spinning wheel of death. I spent a solid hour trying to upload a simple photo of the Terracotta Army (which, by the way, are AMAZING!), and it just. Wouldn't. Budge. So yeah, a bit hit-or-miss. Bring a good book, just in case. Or better yet, download everything you need BEFORE you get there. I had a minor meltdown. Okay, it was a full-blown, Wi-Fi fueled panic attack.
What About the Breakfast? Is it Worth the Extra Yuan?
Breakfast... Ah, breakfast. I'd say the breakfast is worth the extra yuan... *if* you like a culinary gamble. There's a buffet. A buffet of... things. Some things I recognized (toast, eggs – of a questionable hue), and some things I didn't. The coffee? Let's just say it's not the Italian espresso you're dreaming of. It's more akin to… brown-colored water that vaguely resembles coffee. On the plus side, there was usually some kind of noodle soup, which was warm and filling. I'm a sucker for noodles. So, while it's not a gourmet experience, it'll get you through the morning. My advice? Lower your expectations and embrace the adventure. Or, you know, hit up a nearby street vendor for some proper street food. Seriously, the jianbing vendors outside the hotel are a godsend.
Is the Staff Helpful? Or are they just going through the motions?
The staff... well, it depends. Some were incredibly helpful! One lady at the front desk spoke decent English and saved my bacon when I realized I’d left my passport at the train station. She literally went above and beyond, and I am forever indebted to her. Others... seemed less enthusiastic. There's a language barrier, of course, but a smile and a willingness to try usually goes a long way (mostly). Don’t expect them to be overly chatty or offer a ton of tourist advice. They are busy. Be patient, and use Google Translate (or a phrasebook!). And remember your basic Chinese pleases and thank yous – it goes a long way. My overall impression? They're trying their best. Bless them.
Are there nearby Restaurants/Shops? Or am I stuck eating convenience store snacks?
This is a BIG plus! Yes, there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. Walking distance from the hotel? You're practically tripping over them. You can find everything from local noodle shops to fast food chains (if you're craving something familiar). There's a massive shopping mall near the railway station that offers everything you could possibly need. Convenience stores are everywhere, too, so you can absolutely stock up on snacks and drinks. I spent a small fortune on Pringles and instant noodles. Don't judge me, it had been a long day. You won't starve. You'll most likely find something delicious. And probably cheap.
Would you stay at this hotel again? (Be HONEST!)
Okay, the million-dollar question. Would I stay at the Starway Hotel near Xi'an North Railway Station again? Honestly? Yes. Despite the slightly questionable breakfast, the temperamental Wi-Fi, the fluctuating water temperature, and the somewhat firm bed, the location is just *that* good. After a long train ride, or before an early one, it's a lifesaver. It's cheap. It's cheerful (ish). It's clean enough. It's a base of operations. I probably wouldn't choose it for a romantic getaway, but for a practical, budget-friendly stay that's all about convenience? Absolutely. I would. I probably will. The memory of that lady at the front desk is worth it alone. However, I will definitely bring my own coffee and maybe learn to use a phrasebook like a grownup. And I'll pack some extra socks, just in case.
