Shingos Backpackers

The people are friendly and the owners are fantastic. For a hostel, it has everything you need at a fair price, and I think it's good value compared with many other places where you overpay. Don't let the negative reviews put you off, come see for yourself!

There are 12 fire stoves to cook on, and I was able to make meals every day while sharing the space with other residents. This is a regular hostel rather than a hotel, and the service fits its accommodation fee. My only issue is the owner's personality. She sometimes decides whether to accept new residents based on their nationality. If you don't have the chance to get to know her personality, you can stay at peace.

Right in the city centre, with a nearby bus stop and plenty of places to go. At $25 a night, it's good value if you're used to backpacker accommodation and don't have many standards or requirements. Cleanliness could be better, though. The cobwebs should be removed, and the kitchen and bathrooms need a proper clean so there aren't smells or flies around.

The manager was caring and lovely, and the other guests were respectful and quiet. It's a small hostel that felt safe, and I liked the common area with its many sofas and tables. The kitchen looked good too. For the price, I have to give it five stars, even though it is still an old, dirty hostel. I didn't enjoy the dorm. It was packed with long-term residents' stuff, so there was hardly room for my backpack. I couldn't find a power outlet, the mattress was bad enough that I felt every spring, and the pillow seemed worn out and old. You get what you pay for, but I'd still recommend it if you're on a tight budget.