Bluetongue Backpackers

The location is really good, and a double room at $50 a night is still pretty affordable. I’ve stayed here four times before and was always happy with the low prices and friendly staff, so we booked a week while waiting to move into our new apartment. This time, though, the downstairs areas seemed neglected. The bins were overflowing, dishes were piling up in the kitchen, and the showers were dirty. The downstairs toilets ran out of paper for the whole weekend, and one was blocked. It’s still fine for a night or so, and I’d come back, but there’s definitely room for better upkeep.

The shower had hot water and good pressure, but it was in a small, closed room with no ventilation. The toilets had no working lights. The kitchen was filthy and chaotic, with dirty dishes all over and grimy cooking equipment. The private dorm’s double bed was uncomfortable, and every sheet was stained. Doors were rotting at the corners or looked like rats had chewed them. I didn’t feel safe leaving my things locked in my room, either. There was no manager or staff on site overnight, and with loud traffic outside and noisy guests, I worried things could get rowdy. This might suit a backpacker looking for beers with strangers in a dirty backyard, but it wasn’t for me.

The location is handy for shops, bars and trains, and the private room was reasonably priced. But the place is rundown and very basic. The shower had strong water pressure, though it was dirty and leaking. The beds and bedding are old and need replacing. It needs an update and better facilities.

The shared areas were dirty too, and the shower hadn’t been cleaned in two nights. In my room I found leaves, cigarette butts, beer, an animal, and dirty bed sheets. Everything felt filthy. What a shame. The owner will apparently tell you to leave if you’re unhappy. Don’t go there. Cheap doesn’t mean dirty, and it wasn’t even cheap. I’d never recommend a place like this.