Woodlot Hostel

The hostel is handy for walking to most places of interest, and you can book tours there for Mount Bromo, Mount Ijen, or both. Just know that some streets in Malang have no sidewalks, so you may end up walking among the traffic. The drivers won't run you over! The staff try hard to help, even if some aren't fluent in English, and will use Google Translate, so be patient. Beds are modern and very comfortable. There's air conditioning on every floor, simple toast for breakfast, and a coffee shop downstairs. The showers need a proper scrub, and the bathroom doors could use some care. There isn't hot water. A nearby mosque has an imam whose loudspeakers are so loud that at 4am it sounds like he's praying right beside your bed. Lights are never switched off, and some light reaches the beds. If you're sensitive to light or loud noise, bring earplugs and a sleep mask.

There's a roomy common area where you can meet other travellers, and each bed has its own locker. You also get a simple breakfast and free tea, coffee, and water around the clock. The downtown location is strategic. A few interior design tweaks and the place would be perfect.

For a backpacker's budget, this is a nice, fancy place to stay in Malang. The staff are friendly and the place is clean. It's in a strategic spot, about a five-minute walk from the central park, the great Mosque of Malang city, and the cathedral.

It's inexpensive, and the place looks cool, with travellers from all over. It's easy to make new friends if that's what you want. The staff are really friendly and offer tips on places to visit. Getting here is easy too, about an eight-minute walk from the train station. McDonald's, KFC, and Oen's are nearby, so finding food isn't a problem.