Wink Capsule Hostel

The ultra-modern hostel occupies two adjoining restored historic buildings that were once old Chinese shop houses. Their strict preservation status meant that no elevator can be installed, so travelers, most of whom are young backpackers, have to climb stairs to reach the third-floor rooms. The lobby is tiny, with just a front desk and a pair of chairs, but there are lounges -- including one in the building's vaulted attic -- for communal socializing.

Wink Hostel is in Chinatown near the freeway and just a three-minute walk from the Chinatown MRT. The vibrant neighborhood has plenty of bars and restaurants within a short walk, including food hawkers at nearby Maxwell Food Center and nightlife on lively Club Street. The downtown area is about a 20-minute walk, and there are plenty of public transportation options along the way. Changi International Airport is within a 30-minute drive or about an hour away on public transportation.

Wink Hostel's shared dorms have six to 10 beds in dorm rooms with a minimalist black-and-white decor and colored accent lighting. The hotel features primarily coed rooms, which also feature double beds for couples, although there is also a ladies-only dormitory. Rooms are air-conditioned and windows are thoughtfully left open to allow ventilation between bookings. Beds are housed in individual pod-style enclosures with sound-resistant walls and privacy curtains. Far from typical hostel bunks, these are semi-private spaces with enough head room to sit up and work on a laptop. Pods have adjustable reading lights, power outlets, and small ledges for personal belongings. Back-lit mood lighting is automatically activated when guests enter rooms, which makes it easier for guests to find their individual pods at night without having to fumble around in the dark. The shared bathrooms have rainfall showers, but there aren't bathrooms on every floor.

The communal kitchen has a full-size stainless steel refrigerator, a microwave, a toaster oven, and a glass electric cooktop along with a big dining table. Drinks can be purchased and a simple breakfast of toast, peanut butter, jelly, cereal, and juice is included in the room rates. There's also a large lounge with cafe tables and a flat-screen TV with a DVD player. A small balcony provides fresh air lounging and views of Chinatown, while a small library in the attic has books and laptops available to borrow and is accessible 24/7. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.