We climbed a few steps along a narrow stairway to the entrance of Qing Yun Rest House in Block I of the Abdul Razak Complex in Gadong, Brunei Darussalam. The inn occupied the entire floor and there were only six rooms and a reception room.
Apparently, Qing Yun Rest House has several branches in Brunei but the one in Gadong where we stayed was situated right across The Mall. My friend, Betsy, and I spent a total of Php4,900+ (about USD102 or BND141.50), which only costs us Php2,450+ (about USD51 or BND70.75) each for already three nights. We just added Php170+ (USD3.60 or BND5) for the extra hour we extended on the last day since check-out time is only until 12:00nn.
The room wasn’t large but it wasn’t too small either, as we can still move around a bit. We had a queen-size bed, a tiny luggage corner where we could put our things, a table and a chair, and a television set. An electric thermos is available for hot water. The room is air-conditioned but there was also a ceiling fan installed.
It seems that the hotel is practicing to be a green hotel, although it’s only our assumption, because they only change sheets and towels upon request. There’s also no toilet paper provided. Instead, the private toilet has a bidet, along with a hot shower and a liquid bath soap dispenser mounted at the wall.
Security-wise, CCTV cameras are installed in the vicinity of the rest house. A stay-in staff, who was very courteous and helpful to us, is around for various needs. The rooms are also using the electronic key technology on its doors. Wi-fi is also available, with its password changed daily.
This branch of Qing Yun is strategically located. There are many shops in the ground floor. In the morning we just walk to other Blocks where eateries serve breakfast. A McDonald’s and a Jollibee store are only a block away. Buses also stop right in front of the hotel. At night, there are restaurants at The Mall that are still open for dinner. Pasar Malam, or the night market, is also close by.
With its amenities and location, I would say that the price is just right. In fact, it was one of the cheapest I found in the net while looking for an accommodation in Brunei. If you are on a tight budget or if you prefer to spend your travel funds for other purposes, the Qing Yun Rest House is something to consider.
Qing Yun Rest House:
No. 15, 1st Floor, Block I, Abdul Razak Complex
Jln. Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
+67 32 429887
[email protected]
http://qingyunresthouse.wixsite.com/