A Girls' Utopia in an Old Colonial House, Full of Healing Vibes

My best college roommate returned from abroad and arranged a weekend reunion in Shanghai with two other local classmates. On Saturday afternoon, everyone arrived one by one. I was the first to check in. The front desk staff, knowing we were together, quickly processed our stay. Swiping the key card, I entered the room—four bunk beds neatly made with crisp white sheets, a small table, and two chairs by the window. Sunlight streamed through the blinds, casting long stripes of light on the floor, while the air carried a fresh, fluffy scent, like newly laundered towels. As my old friends arrived, suitcases piled in the corner, the small room instantly filled with hugs, exclamations, and laughter. After over a decade apart, the conversation flowed endlessly. We squeezed onto the two chairs or sat cross-legged on our beds, swapping stories from college mishaps to recent updates—voices rising unconsciously before dissolving into hushed giggles. It felt just like those late-night dorm talks after lights-out. After dinner nearby, we found a cozy bar to continue the night. Tipsy and returning close to midnight, we swiped into the quiet accommodation area. Tiptoeing back to our room, we moved softly while washing up, leaving only muffled laughter and the rustling of pajamas. Lying in the dark, we whispered "goodnight," that familiar, long-lost intimacy feeling perfectly natural in this all-girls space. With everything within walking distance—eating, drinking, and hanging out—we avoided the exhaustion of commuting or splitting cabs, saving precious time for the reunion itself. This seamless convenience was key to the gathering's success. From laughing freely (then consciously quieting down) to returning late, removing makeup, and lounging in pajamas without a care, this unguarded familiarity—where no one worries about appearances—is something only an all-female environment can offer. Safety is a given, but the real surprise was rediscovering that dorm-like ease and closeness. The bedding was fresh, and the private bathroom (our room type had one) was functional and promptly cleaned. Soundproofing was decent, and we made sure not to disturb others when returning late, ensuring basic rest. The next morning, we lazed in bed until almost ten before finally getting up, giggling like we were twenty again. At checkout, we dropped the key cards at the front desk under the bright morning sun. . 🎠 Oriental Paris Female Youth Hostel (Shanghai Railway Station Branch) ✨ 3F, 360 Hengtong Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai