HI Toronto Hostel

Breakfast was amazing, and there are large safes in the rooms that hold a lot. The dorm itself was a little small, though I suppose that's expected, and cleanliness was okay. Prices were cheap compared with other places in the city. The location is awesome, within walking distance of many sights and about a five-minute walk from the metro. Overall, a good hostel.

The included breakfast comes through vouchers given at check-in, which you can use at Cavern Bar in the basement for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Front desk staff were really helpful and could sort out almost any problem. The rooms are small but cleaned daily, as are the bathrooms and the rest of the hostel. It's in a perfect spot for exploring, with nearly every major attraction a short walk away. I'd definitely stay again. Keep up the great work!

The building itself is nice and has really good amenities, and the cleaning and maintenance staff deserve credit. My issue is the customer service and behavior at the front desk, apart from the managers. I've stayed in all kinds of places around the world, from hostels to very good hotels, and these desk staff were rude and sometimes arrogant, as if they felt privileged behind the counter. They need proper hospitality training. They often lie about room availability. The Hi hostel website may show a room open, but if you walk in, they'll say there are none. When managers are around, the desk feels pleasant and check-in goes smoothly. The membership also feels like a way to rip people off. They can limit your stay to 14 days whenever they want, threaten you if you stay longer, or act as if they're doing you a favor even though you're paying like everyone else. It starts to feel like they're running a government in a small building. I can't find this 14-day policy written anywhere on the hostel website or elsewhere. I hope management sees this and gives the front desk team training on treating guests like guests.

The downstairs bar is reasonably priced, has live music, and gives guests free breakfast for each day of their stay. It's also a nice place to meet other people at the hostel. I met some interesting folks, and everyone was friendly. During our two nights, the staff were kind and accommodating, and the rooms were clean and cozy. Each bed had a decent locker for valuables. I'd definitely recommend staying here.