Babila Hostel & Bistrot

My first hostel stay wasn't that bad, apart from the late-night door situation. I came back late and found the front door closed, which was okay, but the person opening it gave me attitude each time. I'm talking about the white guy with long hair. He was rude, saying “yea yea whatever” and waving his hands. He shouldn't work the night shift if he's going to treat guests like that. At least change the red shirt, my guy, and put a smile on your face. I didn't see any policy saying I had to come back at a certain time, what a shame!!! The room itself was really nice, though the bathrooms weren't very clean. Maybe I'd come back, but please not if I have to deal with that white dude again.

The location is good, though it's an 11-minute walk from the metro to the hostel, which I didn't mind. The rooms are okay, but the washrooms need work. Water comes out of the bathrooms after showers, so I think they definitely need some repairs. For the price, it's decent overall.

The lift worked perfectly. You do need to make sure every door on each floor is closed, and the cleaner helped me get into the lift with my luggage. My room was a little small but comfortable. There are two showers and a toilet out in the hall, besides the shower inside the room. Since I was leaving early, I packed the night before and used the hall shower so I wouldn't wake the other guest. The overnight receptionist called a taxi at 4am, and it was efficient. I arrived early on 24th Sept and they let me store my luggage. I had a nice lunch and coffee while I waited. The bistrot was busy at lunch but the service was excellent. It was a great experience overall, and I'll definitely stay here again.

For a solo traveler or small group staying a night or two, this is a good, affordable option. The dorm room is basic, fairly small and dark, with just one plug beside the bed. There are no privacy curtains, but the hostel provides keyed small lockers in the room, which is a big plus. The room has a bathroom, and there’s another bathroom and a shower room in the corridor, which made things comfortable. I stayed two nights as a solo business traveler. The hostel has pleasant indoor and outdoor upper deck terraces for relaxing or chatting with others, plus a fridge and kitchen devices to use. The WiFi was good. For more hostel finds, follow @triathlontrips on Instagram and Facebook, and check the website.