Influencer Tries Japanese-Style Pod Hotel in Noida, Anand Mahindra Reacts

Viral News: The concept of pod hotels, popular in Japan, has now gained attention in India. 

A travel influencer's experience at NapTapGo, a Japanese-style pod hotel in Noida, is going viral.

The influencer, @Somya_Crazy, shared pictures and videos of her stay in a thread captioned, "Stayed in a pod-style hotel in Noida!" She opted for a capsule with:

Single bed and mirror, manual and centralized locks, panel with various settings, Charging points and an Entertainment center. 

Her post has garnered over 1.6 million views and several likes. 

During her 8-hour stay, she noted some disadvantages:

Not soundproof (though guests were quiet)
Shared washroom for women and common washroom
Disturbances from neighboring pods

Private rooms were available at a similar price, which she suggested would be more soundproof.

NapTapGo charges on an hourly basis; she paid ₹1,000 for 8 hours on a Saturday (4 am-12 pm). Weekday rates are cheaper.

Anand Mahindra took notice of the post and tweeted, "That looks pretty cool. I've always thought the capsule hotel concept would ideal for expanding functional & clean hotel rooms in India, boosting budget travel. But how many of you agree? Would you find this claustrophobic?"

How did the internet react? 

A user commented "Even though the roof looks much taller and roomier than a railway berth, still claustrophobia does kick in for me !!"

Another remarked “ This would be ideal for solo travelers who will also have worries about budget.”

"Good for one time experience even if one doesn't feel claustrophobic but retention is something to take care about, as I don't see folks coming again and again unless and until someone is extremely introverted." a third user opined.

'The capsule hotel concept could definitely enhance budget travel in India by offering efficient and clean accommodations. While some may find it claustrophobic, many travelers might appreciate the convenience and affordability it provides.' a fourth wrote.