Blue House Youth Hostel

The price and kitchen were a plus, and the atmosphere was friendly. Still, the floorboards could get really noisy at night, and one bathroom for more than 10 people isn’t much. My stay was okay.

Such a good deal, with comfy beds, a lovely team, nice music, and a great location. Really liked the vibe here. Thanks for everything!

This is a relaxed, scruffy place that’s well run, thanks to staff who work hard and are always helpful. I liked staying here, though it can be loud. People gather to smoke on the open patio, and some guests may look rough at first. Say hola or Buenos Dias and they’re warm and friendly. There’s free luggage storage, plus breakfast and laundry for an extra charge. Cheap places to eat, mini-markets, and laundry facilities are nearby, and the hostel sits on a major express bus line. Our room had a private bath, balcony, queen bed, and two bunks with privacy curtains. It’d work well for a family with kids. We used a bunk to spread out our clothes instead, and you need clothes for every season in Ecuador! The kitchen is a jumble of cooking utensils and spices, but handy for making your own meals and saving money. Filtered water is unlimited. The shared area has couches, tables, chairs, a pool table, and a little library of books left by former residents. It’s a vibrant, inexpensive backpackers’ crash pad, not a luxury stay. The neighborhood is safer than it may seem, with bars, discos, and restaurants full of nearby university students. Expect drunk students, people living on the streets, and dogs roaming around. If comfort and luxury matter, I’d stay at an Airbnb in Iñaquito. It suits younger travelers who stay up late and chat with strangers in broken Spanish and English, and it’s a place to catch a shuttle to the Amazon jungle. Solo travelers might find a companion for the trip. My partner and I are older and frugal, and would rather spend money at good restaurants than on fancy accommodation. It can look like the place is barely holding together, but the staff keep it running.

The beds are comfortable pods, with charging ports and lights, and there are big lockers in the rooms. Staff were so friendly, thanks Brandon and Anita! There’s free water and coffee, a small practical kitchen, and a cozy common area with heating, a pool table, and an exercise space. Laundry service is $1.50/kg. A very chill hostel!