Hostel Thirty One

The only real advantage is the location, next to a great cafe, Prosperidad metro station, and intercambiador de autobuses de la avenida de América, a huge bus depot. I was there because I had an early coach and this was the closest hostel. Otherwise, I’d have left. Spend an extra 10 euros and stay somewhere else. I won’t return. The place smelled of unwashed bodies, and the rooms were overcrowded and stifling. My room was a tiny space with 20 beds and so little air I barely slept, along with constant loud snoring from other guests. The beds weren’t clean. The lockers all used the same code, so every guest and homeless regular knew it. There was a sign in the common room opposite a filthy couch saying headphones were required and loud music wasn’t allowed, but the host came into bedrooms where people were sleeping, blasting music and shouting through the door at homeless people who came to the common area.

Hostel Thirty One was good value for the price, and I’d happily stay again. The location was convenient for attractions and public transport, while still quiet at night. Staff were friendly and helpful with local advice, taxis, and directions. The simple rooms were clean, the beds comfortable, and I appreciated the lockers and air conditioning and fans. Shared bathrooms were tidy most of the time, and the common area was relaxed and made it easy to meet other travelers. Wi-Fi could be slow when busy, and the kitchen and common facilities were basic, but for the price it’s a solid choice for backpackers looking for an affordable, social stay.

We thought the reviews sounded exaggerated, but this was a hostel nightmare. The room had 16 beds and was dark, cold, stuffy, and had no lock. You don’t need keycards to enter any “room.” There was no bedding, pillows were only sometimes available, and there were no blankets. People staying at the hostel, most likely homeless, were constantly fighting, doing shady business, and sleeping in random spots in the already cramped common room. The receptionist came into the rooms very early, switched on the lights, and changed the beds before anyone had checked out. The bathrooms stank of chlorine, supposedly because those same people pee on the tiles. There was no toilet paper or lid on the flush tank, so you had to put your hand into the dirty water to flush. Shower doors had no locks, and there was nowhere to hang clothes or towels. There were no lockers, just a luggage room where you had to ask the receptionist to let you in, if you could find him at reception. We booked three nights with breakfast, but breakfast was never offered. The receptionist didn’t speak a word of English and had an attitude problem. I could keep listing what’s wrong, but if you’ve read this far, don’t stay here. Just pay the extra 5€ for a better hostel. Bon voyage!

Hostel Thirty-One has clean, well-kept rooms, comfortable beds, and good security. It’s cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff who are ready to share city tips. The location near transport and local attractions makes exploring easy. A good, convenient option for travelers watching their budget.