Essex hotel guide. Hostelling International hotel in Essex, Chicago

"clean, safe, good breakfast."

"Loved the location, staff was very friendly and the room was great for my stay."

"The breakfast and bar were convenient. The room was in need of upgrading."

"Cool and perfect for our short trip to Chicago. Room was a bit small, but worked well to sleep in for two nights. The location on the magnificent mile worked perfect to accessing public transportation and tourist bus tours. Lots of great restaurants around the area and it was easy to walk everywhere from this spot. "

"The staff were great. Rooms were very clean but lacked in the little things like soap and a coffee maker. The room was large and comfortable. The cooling system would only keep the room at 70 degrees. The tv was slow and clunky making almost useless for entertainment. No tv guide or movie channels. The hotel is places well around shopping and restaurants near by."

"Waited 10 minutes for someone to actually appear at front desk upon check in, and when they did arrive, only directed guests to kiosks to check in themselves. No welcome, no review of property or amenities, no ID check. Bed felt like it was 2 decades old at best, springs felt throughout and saggy. At check out, same thing, directed to kiosks. At no time did anyone from the staff offer a welcome or ask about my stay. Convenient location, but price not worth what is actually offered at the property."

"Best hostel experience ever! I was hesitant of staying in a hostel after not doing so in years but this was so nice and very centrally located. Would stay here again!"

"Friendliest hotel staff ever"

"Perfect for couples and the location is amazing"