A la Gurda Hostel

The location is decent, and the showers are nice. The kitchen and breakfast were okay too. Luggage storage was also fine, like at most hostels, though it wasn’t in a secured place. Sleep was a real problem for me. Rooms near the kitchen and hangout area pick up every sound, so loud guests in the common space can keep you awake. I had bad luck with a guest who snored heavily. The owners knew about this guest, who had medical issues, and at least three people changed rooms or ended their stays because of the noise. They could have warned me or moved me to another dorm, which was half full. Instead, they suggested I pay for a private room. I didn’t see that as compensation or goodwill, but as a way to profit from a difficult situation. The dorm is also beside the drinking and party areas, and the owners don’t seem to stop the noise or ask people to be considerate late at night. Other reviews describe similar issues. The lockers felt like another cost-cutting choice. They weren’t properly secured, since the screws could easily be unscrewed, and hardly anyone used them. The owners seem focused on revenue. If you have a night bus after checkout, be aware that they charge you to stay on the premises. This wasn’t explained or written down. In my two years of travel, I’ve only encountered this at two hostels, and both sets of owners seemed greedy. I’d avoid this place. You can pay a little more at a nearby hostel where you can sleep and wait in the living room before a night bus, even if you can’t use the kitchen.

The hot showers and clean rooms made for a great stay, but being turned away after checkout spoiled it. We’d stored our bags and wanted to use the common areas, buy water, and wait for our night bus. In all the countries I’ve visited, I’ve never been to a hostel that wouldn’t let guests do that. Kicking us out after checkout is just bad business.

The staff were very welcoming. There were several people working there, and the one who spoke English was especially helpful in pointing me toward local places. She also gave me the bus schedule and saved me a trip to the terminal. It’s a young place with a few oldsters.

A lovely welcome, with smiles and real kindness. The private room was a great price, even though the shower and toilet were outside. There’s a small rooftop, and different kinds of shops are nearby. A good address!