Ivy Hostel

The hostel was quiet and cozy, and you couldn’t really hear the cars or motorcycles outside. It was also very clean. The staff welcomed us warmly and let us check in early so we could rest after our journey. They were quick to suggest nearby cafés and restaurants too.

The included breakfast was pretty good, with juice, fruit, coffee, and toast. Some mornings the eggs were a bit undercooked for us, though that may just come down to taste. We had a good stay and thought it was good value for money. We stayed in two rooms. The double with a private bathroom was spacious and clean, with a TV, hot water, and a fairly recent bathroom, but it’s right beside the bar and can get a little noisy. Our second double, on the second floor with a shared bathroom, was clean but very small. Its window had no curtains, so people across the street could definitely see in. Both beds were quite hard. The staff were friendly and helpful. The hostel isn’t in the main tourist area, but it’s in a well-to-do neighborhood near several modern malls, and the tourist area is just one metro stop away. Overall, I’d recommend it.

I’ve stayed in more than 100 hostels over the past few years, and the people you meet and how welcoming the staff are make a big difference. This one is clean and well priced, but it’s the staff who make it feel comfortable. Breakfast is included and served to you until 10 am, which is great.

After nearly 50 hostels, this is one of the best I’ve stayed in. It has a warm, welcoming feel, and making new friends comes easily. The way the place is set up gives guests an almost family-like vibe, while still letting you do your own thing.