Port Lincoln YHA

The room was clean and the bed comfy, and the kitchen had everything we needed. The hostel was super clean and the amenities were really nice. The owners know the area so well, always sharing great places to visit and showing photos. The smoked fish was a winner too, and we had a really pleasant stay. The one downside was that, as adults, it sometimes felt like staying at mum and dad’s, with reminders to keep everything spotless, push in chairs and wipe benches. I understand things could get messy, but a slightly more relaxed approach would be nice. I’ve seen the same point mentioned in a lot of reviews.

Debbie is such a sweet pea. Everything was organised, and she even called before I arrived to make sure I knew about and had booked the cheapest way in from the airport. This is by far the cleanest hostel I’ve ever stayed in, and I’ve stayed in loads. No question or favour was too much for Debbie. She even sent back the sleeping kit I’d left behind by mistake and wouldn’t take any money for postage. It’s a 10 minute walk to pubs, restaurants and groceries, and some places offer YHA guests discounts. Five stars, definitely recommend.

The hostel is really clean, but I felt that was because the owner treated guests like employees and expected them to clean everything to her unreasonable standards. Once, while I was in the toilet, she came into my room and started telling me off through the toilet door for not drying the kitchen sink. Another time, she said I’d left the kitchen clean but not clean enough for her, so I had to do it again. I checked out at ten and was told I couldn’t stay in the building any longer. The owner then started packing up my food from the fridge, even though I told her not to touch my things. I’ve travelled all around the world, from the worst hostel to the best hotel, and this is the first time I’ve been kicked out of the premises after checking out.

My good mood was ruined by the owner. From my first day, she started making trouble for me because my slippers made noise when water got inside them in the shower. I felt she twisted things around and gossiped. I’d booked four nights but couldn’t stay any longer, so I chose to leave for my dignity. I’ve never been insulted like that before. I’m Asian, and I asked the owner if her attitude was related to my race. She said yes. I’d thought she was strict but kind, but I was wrong. She doesn’t know how to respect others, and I found her neurotic and racist. Still, I thank you, you really are a mean and uneducated cleaner.