The Witch'S Hat

We stayed here twice, first for two weeks and then for just over a week. We’d stay again if we came back to Perth. It costs a little more than other hostels, but I think it’s worth it. The atmosphere is friendly while still being quiet after 10pm, so you can sleep when you want to. It was very clean, and all the staff were really friendly.

The receptionist was the bright spot: helpful, friendly, and professional. The accommodation was cheap, but I don't think it comes close to 4 stars, and I probably wouldn't stay again. Cleanliness wasn't great, especially the bathroom floors, showers, and kitchen. The hot water in the showers barely worked and kept cutting in and out.

The beds were clean, comfortable, air conditioned, and great to sleep in. The kitchen is well equipped, with cutlery available for a $10 deposit, and there's a great book depository. Female rooms felt cramped; the mixed room had much more space, though it's near the front door where people gather and talk at night. Earplugs helped. The place felt cliquey, with people who'd lived there a while and FIFO workers on the piss. Bathrooms get dirty quickly because there's nothing to dry your feet, even though staff clean them daily. There was a fire alarm going off for half an hour in the middle of the night. The night manager couldn't turn it off and had no list of names or fire evacuation plan. If it had been a real fire, he wasn't prepared. I wouldn't stay again, the vibe isn't for me.

I found the atmosphere in Australia hard to match, and not in a good way. It felt like staff had one set of rules for themselves and another for everyone else, and you weren't allowed to have fun at all. I was told to leave for playing music at 4pm, and I gladly did. The staff caused unnecessary drama and came across as malicious. Julia the manager seemed like a two-faced, bossy drunk who thought she owned everyone staying there. Honestly, sleeping on the park bench across the road would be better. Avoid this hostel.