Hostel 123

I’m loving my stay at Hostel 123. The pillows are so soft and fluffy, and the rooms are clean and feel cozy. It took a bit of figuring out to switch on the air conditioning, but once I got it working, the gentle breeze made it feel like relaxing on a tropical beach in the Bahamas. I’d definitely recommend it.

The rooms are up a staircase, and the walls are thin enough that you hear a lot, especially when people arrive late at night. Still, it’s on a quiet street, just a few minutes’ walk from some of Sofia’s main sights. What really made the place for me was the staff. They were among the best I’ve met in all my years travelling, always ready with answers, sightseeing and food suggestions, or help sorting out transport. Once their work was done, they’d spend time with guests and have great conversations. They even helped rescue a puppy and find it an adoptive home while I was there. The atmosphere was fun, welcoming, and relaxing.

The breakfasts were a highlight for me, with a wider choice of dishes than I’d had before. I also loved the convenient location for sightseeing, even though it’s not especially close to the metro. The atmosphere was friendly and open, and I met some really interesting people from around the world.

Breakfast is available free from 8:30 to 11:00, with simple options like toast, cheese, cucumbers, and some jams. Tea and coffee are free whenever you want them. It’s a cozy place in the city center, and the staff are really nice.