Hostel Gasthaus Nordstern

The place is filthy and feels like a health hazard. There’s hardcore drug use and alcoholism, and if you actually get into trouble, it’s impossible to reach anyone. Cleaners came into my room twice without knocking. They never take responsibility for anything that goes wrong. We can all guess who runs this place, it’s obvious. I’ll report it to the police once I’ve settled somewhere new.

The hostel contacted me a day after I posted my review. Instead of apologizing, they told me I deserved to sleep in a shared room with beds separated by curtains and 100 other people. A broken TV is the least of the problems. The trash can right outside the entrance was always overflowing, and I saw filthy rats there both nights. In seven years in Germany, this was the first time I’d seen rats, and it was right in front of this hostel. Hygiene clearly isn’t a priority. There’s just one standing shower for about 20 rooms. No shower gel or shampoo, nowhere to hang clothes, and the water drains so slowly that you have to stop every 3-4 minutes and wait for the dirty water to go down. The main hall has one very dirty microwave and fridge for everyone. Strangers who weren’t guests, possibly from other floors, used them even in the middle of the night. I’d almost rather those facilities weren’t there. Some guests shouted during the night and smoked in their rooms with the windows open. Since it’s self-check-in, there was no manager to complain to.

The tram stop is right outside, and the apartment is in a nice location. There’s no elevator, though, and it’s on the third floor. It also has a strange old-house smell. Everything else was fine. Be aware that they may take money from your deposit if you miss any house rules, like forgetting to remove your bed linen or leaving the dishwasher full at checkout.

I spent 12 days in apartment 20a and felt great there. It’s such a pleasant space, with sweet, cozy decor and enough room for five people, so on my own it felt luxurious. There’s a well-equipped kitchen, sofa, two toilets, TV, shower, and even a dressing room. The location worked well for me, about 20 minutes on foot from the main railway station or 10 minutes by train. Staff were friendly, quick to reply to messages, and always ready to help. I’d stay here again next time I’m in Essen.