Sla Boutique Hostel

A fresh, welcoming place in a handy location. The staff speak only a little English, but they work hard to keep everything spotless. I liked the big shared dining table and comfortable sofa. It's a shame that so many travelers spend their time on smartphones instead of chatting with each other, like people used to on backpacking trips.

The place is lovely and clean, the bunks were comfortable, and having fruit with breakfast was a nice touch. The staff were especially helpful, arranging tours and transport and getting my laundry done earlier. I held back the last star because the water was lukewarm whenever I showered. The neighborhood also felt a bit sketchy at night, with bars catering to men, if you know what I mean.

I stayed three nights: one in the 10-bed dorm and two in the 6-bed dorm. Each room had one toilet and one bathroom, and the staff cleaned them daily and changed the bed covers. The hostel was clean, with a very good atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and helpful. You can cook for yourself in the kitchen, or order from the menu and have the staff prepare your food. I'd highly recommend staying here.

The cooking classes on certain days were fun, and breakfast was good and reasonably priced. I’ve stayed in quite a few hostels around Southeast Asia, and this was one of the best. You can share a double bed in a dorm to keep costs down, which I thought might feel odd, but it was completely fine. It's quiet and a nice place to unwind. It wasn't very social, which can happen at nicer hostels, though the class helped. I'd come back if I were in the area.