Home at the Mansion Hostel

The location worked really well for us, near the city centre and the MCG, where we needed to be for two days. But the stay itself was a letdown. Our private room for two was so tiny there was barely room to place a suitcase, and the place looked nothing like the Booking.com photos. There were only four showers and toilets for the whole floor, and they were ALWAYS dirty. Only one staff member was genuinely nice. The others barely acknowledged us when we said hello. There were people who seemed to be living there, including a staff member who came across as rather touchy with several male guests. It gave the place a strange feel. The fridge setup was also poor: you get four small labelled bags and can leave them wherever, but people still take food from them. I wasn't expecting a five-star hotel, but this really seems suited only to backpackers. I wouldn't recommend it.

Even though I live 600km away now, the staff kindly arranged to send me a package that had arrived at the hostel. They insured it and didn't charge me, which was an amazing gesture. The Mansion Hostel was also very clean, with modern rooms and a great, safe atmosphere. No creeps around. There are movie nights, waffles on Sundays, and you can pay a one-time $5 fee to get a fresh towel each day. The light rail is close by, too. The staff are incredibly kind.

There's plenty of lovely food within walking distance, and the city is just a free tram ride away. The bedrooms and facilities were clean, everyone was nice, and I felt very safe. For a backpackers, The Mansion was honestly better than MOST places I've stayed. I'd happily recommend it and book here again.

The place had a nice vibe, and reception staff were friendly and helpful. I stayed in a four-bed dorm at a great price. The bed was comfortable and gave me a bit of privacy, with my own light and power point. The kitchen and dining area were excellent, and there was a nice private outdoor space. Great short stay in Melbourne, thank you.